Corn Nation, a Nebraska Cornhuskers community

The Hawkeyes have shaken up their coaching staff, but with major question marks on the defensive line and the cursed running back position, is this the bounce-back season for Iowa?

With eight returning starters on defense, the Spartans should have the B1Ggest, baddest defense around. But with an unproven quarterback and receiving corps, there are too many questions to anoint them favorits in the Big Ten's west division.

Michigan is the trendy pick to win the Big Ten's west division in 2012, based on last season's 11-2 record. But a tougher schedule (Alabama to kick off the season) may make it tougher for Michigan to improve on that record, even if they are better.

With all-everything Kain Colter back, NW's offense should be ok, and even pretty good if USC transfer Kyle Prater is declared eligible. But it might be all for naught if more playmakers don't emerge on defense. Even so, NW is always up for an upset.

Ohio State had a losing record in 2011, and is ineligible for postseason play in 2012. Even so, Urban Meyer's team will be out to make their mark in October and November.

Wisconsin demolished Nebraska 48-17 in Madison. But the game was close early on. Nebraska led 14-13 with five minutes left before halftime...but three interceptions led to five straight Badger touchdowns, and the blowout was on.

Think Idaho State is just a mediocre 1-AA team? Think again...that might be kind to the Bengals.

Rick "Skippy" Neuheisel is out after four losing seasons, with former NFL coach Jim Mora, Jr. taking a shot in college.

With only 12 returning starters and an entirely new coaching staff, the defending Conference USA champions will look quite a bit different when they come to Lincoln.