With attrition and quite frankly an under achieving product on the field, it makes me wonder how much longer the Big East will keep its status of an automatic qualifying conference. It is a superior basketball conference, but football lacks the same fervor.

Big East –  projected order of finish

Louisville – The Cardinals return 17 starters and probably have the most expectations for a great season in the last few years. Unless injuries or plain bad luck enter thee equation, Louisville should win the conference outright easily.

South Florida – Opening 2011 with a great start including a victory over the overrated Fighting Irish, the Bulls hit the skids hard and did not seem to recover finishing at a 1-7 clip. If the Bulls can stay within themselves, they could contend.

Rutgers – New head coach is the largest change for the Scarlet Knights. Tough schedule includes going on the road to meet Arkansas right after squaring off with South Florida.

Pitt – The Panthers have a lot of talent, but seem to be missing players that have another gear. Lack of playmakers will hurt the Pitt chances.

Cincinnati – This pick could haunt. If the Bearcats find themselves early and start to mesh, they could challenge for the conference. Not sure that it happens right away.

Temple – Once the absolute laughing stock of college football the Owls are on the rise. They will be put to a test this season to see if the last few years have been improvement or lack of opponent strength.

Syracuse – The Orange could be in deep trouble simply due to schedule opening with Northwestern and USC. There is some talent here, but not enough consistency to contend.

Connecticut – The Huskies were very inconsistent last season, but will use that as motivation to build this season. Offense must be able to move the ball.

Louisville wins conference outright.