2008 OUTLOOK: The breakthrough by Kansas during its 12-1 run last season culminated in an Orange Bowl victory and a virtual sweep of national coach of the year awards by Mark Mangino. The Jayhawks should be able to follow up the impressive run with another strong season, though the addition of South Florida, Oklahoma, Texas and Texas Tech on the schedule will make it difficult for them to contend for the Big 12 North title, or another BCS berth.

SCOUTING THE OFFENSE
Although the Jayhawks lost a 1,000-yard rusher (Brandon McAnderson) and a 1,000-yard receiver (Marcus Henry), enough depth exists at the skill positions to pose another strong outlook for the offense. The biggest concern will be the newcomers who step in at tackle and tight end. QB Todd Reesing can elude tacklers and proved to be an accurate thrower last season, but Kansas would prefer for him not to have to scramble too often.

SCOUTING THE DEFENSE
The loss of Bill Young, a veteran coordinator who is an original member of Mangino's staff, could be a blow. Mangino will turn to Clint Bowen, the lone holdover Mangino retained when he was hired. The Jayhawks return nine starters, though one of the regulars they lost was a first-round draft pick, CB Aqib Talib. Kansas should still be solid in the secondary and at linebacker. The defensive interior is a concern.

SCOUTING THE SPECIAL TEAMS
Fielding punts almost resembled a high-wire act at times last season and is an area where Kansas must improve. Finding a punter is also a priority, though versatile Kerry Meier might handle the job in addition to other duties. The Jayhawks must also replace PK Scott Webb. Overall, special teams pose as many questions as any unit.

ROSTER REPORT

--Three returning starters, C Ryan Cantrell, LB Joe Mortensen and S Justin Thornton, missed spring practice while healing from leg injuries. DE John Larson also missed the spring game with an illness.

--After reporting to Kansas as a running back and then moving to cornerback as a junior last season, WR Gary Green will try to add depth to the receiving corps. He caught five passes for 34 yards in the spring game.

--After missing the Orange Bowl with an injury, LB Arist Wright posted a game-high 10 tackles in the spring game.

Copyright (C) 2008 The Sports Xchange. All Rights Reserved.