This group here is as hard to predict as the top five will be next. Any of these teams could make a run and it would not shock me. Any of these teams could flame out and it would not shock me there either. Here we go!

8. Baylor

Maybe I am too harsh on the Bears putting them this low. I know Blake Shappen is looking to have a breakout year, and they are well coached. But I just do not have the feeling Baylor is going to turn in a good season. Last year was a massive disappointment for a really good on paper squad. Last year’s squad had far more potential than this year’s team does, so I am just not seeing the reversal of fortune. Could they surprise me and turn in the year everyone expected to see last year?

7. TCU

TCU had the season of destiny last year. They got every break and took advantage of them. But with a new offensive coordinator, both a downgrade on the field and off it, and a lot of turnover on the field this team is going to face the regression from hell. Not only is the ball going to bounce the other way, but this just is not a very scary football team. Coach Dykes is going to prove more to me this year, breaking in a new system and a ton of new faces on the field, than he did taking Patterson’s group further than they had any business being.

6. UCF

UCF of all the newcomers is who I think takes the first step forward in this new world order. Does that mean they are immediately ready to challenge for titles? No, but they are not far off being a serious problem in the conference. Their inaugural season may not be a special one, but they are well coached and talented enough to lead the newbie group. They are going to scare a few teams this year and could really surprise me.