With college football kicking off, who are some of the teams outside the top 10 who could make a run at a national championship?
5. Louisville »
The Big East is wide open, especially with West Virginia leaving the conference. The Cardinals, who went 5-2 in the Big East last year, may have the best chance to run the table. They play no ranked teams all year and will host Kentucky, North Carolina, South Florida and Cincinnati.
4. West Virginia »
The Mountaineers have a tough schedule in their first season in the Big 12 -- facing five ranked teams in a six-game span. But with quarterback Geno Smith and receiver Tavon Austin, West Virginia has two of the most dynamic playmakers in the country.
3. Boise State »
For the first time since 2007, Kellen Moore will not be the Broncos' starting quarterback. But with 24 seniors, Boise State still has players with big-game experience. A win on Friday against No. 13 Michigan State and the Broncos could be on their way to another BCS bowl game.
2. Virginia Tech » Quarterback Logan Thomas had a nice first season as a starter, throwing for 3,013 yards and 19 touchdowns and adding 469 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground. But the junior will be expected to do more this year against a favorable schedule. The Hokies will play just two ranked teams.
1. Wisconsin »
Heisman finalist Montee Ball will be running behind another strong offensive line for the Badgers. With Ohio State and Penn State being ineligible for postseason competition, Wisconsin only has Illinois, Indiana and Purdue in its way for a Big Ten Leaders title.
- Jeffrey Tomik