Mike Riley has the quarterback “to pilot” the offense he wants. Tanner Lee not overwhelming at Tulane, but didn’t have supporting cast. Couple of solid receivers. Defensively, just five starters back but expect improvement because of new coordinator Bob Diaco.
“Having Diaco is big,” Steele said. “He’s a great defensive mind. I know his teams at Connecticut didn’t fare well, but their defense was always outstanding. Problem was offense couldn’t move the ball.”
His pick: 8-4. Because of the schedule.
“There are four games to look at,” Steele said. “At Oregon, second week. That’s going to be tough. Oregon’s going to be one of the most improved teams in the country. Wisconsin, they’ll be favored in all 12 games. Ohio State and Penn State are a pair of top-10 teams.
“Schedule is huge in picking teams. I have them picking up third in the West. If they were to win the Wisconsin game, then they’re a Western Division contender.”