2008 OUTLOOK: The four-game losing streak to cap the 2007 season, which left Kansas State with a losing record, is a negative the Wildcats carry into the season. If the addition of 19 JUCO transfers infuses new life, energy and talent into the program, then third-year coach Ron Prince could look like a genius. Getting that many newcomers to make an impact, however, can be difficult. It looks like an act of desperation and it's up to Prince to prove it isn't.

SCOUTING THE OFFENSE
QB Josh Freeman is a junior who was inserted as a starter in Big 12 play as a true freshman. He remains a raw talent, capable of winging the ball on a line with incredible velocity, yet is erratic. The Wildcats tinkered with a no-huddle attack during spring practice, but did not unveil it in the spring game. Distributing the ball to more receivers is critical following the loss of All-American Jordy Nelson.

SCOUTING THE DEFENSE
The collapse of this unit late last season, when it allowed 198 points in the last four games, including 73 to Nebraska, is the biggest concern entering the fall. The Wildcats should be solid in the secondary behind safeties Chris Carney and Gary Chandler, as long as playmakers step up at cornerback. The front seven must apply pressure on quarterbacks without taking unnecessary risks.

SCOUTING THE SPECIAL TEAMS
The loss of the Big 12's top punter, Tim Reyer, could be a blow. Returners Deon Murphy and Leon Patton are back and should pose a consistent threat again after Kansas State ranked first nationally with a 22.5-yard average on punt returns last season. PK Brooks Rossman also returns after going 22 of 28 on field goals.

ROSTER REPORT

--Several Wildcats did not dress for the spring game, including three offensive linemen with starting experience, OT Alesana Alesana, C Jordan Bedore and OT Nick Stringer. Stringer underwent offseason shoulder surgery. TE Jeremy Mack also did not dress for the spring game.

--Bedore, QB Josh Freeman, DE Ian Campbell and S Chris Carney were named captains.

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