16. Arkansas Razorbacks

2006 Record: 10-4, 7-1 SEC

Houston Nutt and his Razorbacks have endured tumultuous offseason complete with attrition and controversy. However, the Hawgs have the nation’s best player (Darren McFadden) and one snoozer of a schedule.

17. Texas A&M Aggies

2006 Record: 9-4, 5-3 Big XII

Dennis Franchione got folks off his back last year, but the seat is still fairly warm. Fifteen starters back, including eight on offense, might ease his mind a bit. The Aggies could challenge for the league title.

18. Auburn Tigers

2006 Record: 11-2, 6-2 SEC

Auburn missed its shot at a run for the national title a year ago and must endure a rebuilding season of sorts in 2007. The schedule is tough, but seven starters back on defense makes the ride smoother.

19. UCLA Bruins

2006 Record: 7-6, 5-4 Pac-10

Seven wins doesn’t seem all that great, but UCLA played spoiler to USC’s national title hopes a year ago and now bring back 21 starters. The Bruins have their sights set high in 2007 as UCLA could contend for the Pac-10 title.

20. Rutgers Scarlet Knights

2006 Record: 11-2, 5-2 Big East

Was last year a fluke? It’s not likely, but ranking Rutgers near the top 10 might be a bit premature. Greg Schiano’s team was the toast of college football in 2006. Can Ray Rice help lead the Knights back to the postseason?