SPRING OBJECTIVES
While new defensive coordinator Clint Bowen is no stranger to the program, since he played for the Jayhawks and was also the only coach retained when Mark Mangino was hired at Kansas, the biggest question stems from Bowen's promotion. He takes over for Bill Young, a veteran who let few details escape his attention. The Jayhawks will be hard-pressed to match their plus-21 turnover margin. Developing new running backs, as well as a left tackle to protect QB Todd Reesing, will be essential offensively.

BUILDING BLOCKS
Reesing not only threw for 3,486 yards last season, but was also efficient, enjoying a six-game conference stretch without an interception. WR Dexton Fields and WR Dezmon Briscoe return as targets, while RB Jake Sharp is back after chipping in 821 yards rushing while splitting carries last season. Each of the starting linebackers, Mike Rivera, Joe Mortensen and James Holt, are among nine regulars who return on defense.

SCHEDULE SITUATION
Kansas capitalized on a soft non-conference schedule and soft crossover schedule against the Big 12 South last season. That won't be the case this year, with a trip to South Florida on tap before Oklahoma, Texas Tech and Texas return to the schedule. Even if the Jayhawks maintain the same high level they achieved last year, it will be difficult to match their 7-1 league finish or be in position for another BCS invitation.

QUOTE TO NOTE
"Last year as a receiving corps we left a lot of balls on the field. This year I plan on bringing a lot of those balls in and keeping them off the ground. I think that's where my weakness was last year." -- Kansas WR Dezmon Briscoe

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