ESPN Way Too Early Top 25 2017

[bulls phanatic]

http://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/18395211/alabama-crimson-tide-florida-state-seminoles-headline-way-too-early-top-25-2017

 

20. USF

2016 record: 11-2, 7-1 AAC
Returning starters: 7 offense, 9 defense, 2 special teams

Key losses: RB Marlon Mack, WR Rodney Adams, OT Kofi Amichia, G Dominique Threatt, LB Nigel Harris, SS Nate Godwin, CB Johnny Ward

Outlook: Former Texas coach Charlie Strong might have inherited the best team in a Group of 5 conference from former USF coach Willie Taggart. Quarterback Quinton Flowers is back, but losing tailback Marlon Mack (1,187 rushing yards, 15 touchdowns) to the NFL draft is a big blow. Still, the Bulls should have one of the most potent offenses in the FBS. Nine starters are expected back on defense as well. USF's nonconference schedule isn't very difficult (there's a home game against Illinois), and the team will play AAC foes Houston, Temple and Tulsa at home. Strong might have a very big maiden season in Tampa, Florida.

For more on how the Bulls will look in 2017, check out USF's recruiting profile and ESPN RecruitingNation's class rankings.