The strength and depth of the line and receiving corps will help make the transition in the starting role easier for a trio of sophomores. QB Matt Leinhart, RB Hershel Dennis and FB Brandon Hancock each receive a trial by fire, thanks to 80,000 hostile Auburn fans. Yet another sophomore, WR Mike Williams is already labeled a Heisman candidate and can spark a green backfield into a realm of productivity.

"If" Carroll can find a solid replacement for emotional leader FS Troy Polamalu, forget about scoring 20 points a game against SC. Partial qualifier Darnell Bing may be the answer. The coaching staff and fans will take their much anticipated first look at Bing this Spring. Both the line and 'backers are stacked with talent, highlighted by individuals DT Shaun Cody and LB Matt Grootegoed. The performance of a young secondary dictates if the Trojans bowl BCS or end up in El Paso.