No. 12 Oregon

Coach: Chip Kelly
Record: First year as head coach
Last season: 10-3, 7-2 Pac-10
Bowl game: Beat Oklahoma State, 42-31, in the Holiday Bowl

Overview: Chip Kelly takes over for longtime coach Mike Bellotti, who retired after last season. Kelly has been the Ducks’ offensive coordinator for the past two seasons. There is always uncertainty when an assistant becomes a head coach, but Kelly is familiar with the team and the offense is experienced.
Key returnees: QB Jeremiah Masoli, Jr.; RB LeGarrette Blount, Sr.; DE Will Tukuafu, Sr.; CB Walter Thurmond III, Sr.; S T.J. Ward, Sr.
Why Oregon is dangerous: The backfield is experienced and productive. Jeremiah Masoli passed for 1,744 yards and rushed for 718 more last season. LeGarrette Blount barely eclipsed with 1,000-yard barrier with 1,002 yards rushing. Tight end Ed Dickson was productive. Defensive end Will Tukuafu had 7› sacks.
Why Oregon is vulnerable: The Ducks return fewer starters than anyone in the Pac-10 and the offensive line has to be rebuilt. The defense gave up 30 or more points five times last season.
Prediction: Is Chip Kelly ready to be a head coach? He’ll find out in the season opener when Oregon travels to Boise State. The Ducks have home games against Utah, California and Southern Cal that will test them. Oregon will be hard pressed to match last year’s record, but the favorable home schedule could work in its favor.