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John L. Smith turned a nose-diving program around, and managed to eke a bowl bid out of the 2003 season. With the help of Jeff Smoker, who overcame substance abuse problems, the Spartans scored upsets over Iowa and Minnesota en route to the Alamo Bowl.

It's difficult to tell, but Smith may have a tougher coaching job ahead of him this year, because the team doesn't have a Smoker, Charlie Rogers or T.J. Duckett to build around. They're loaded with talent, such as quarterback Drew Stanton, running back DeAndra Cobb, and receiver Matt Trannon, but they lack the go-to guy right now, as well as the guy that can right the ship.

On defense, it's the same story. They have some consistent performers, such as defensive lineman Clifford Dukes and middle linebacker Ronald Stanley, but they're banking on unproven commodities. If the rest of the defensive line can live up to their billing, and if Jaren Hayes can make the transition from running back to cornerback, the Spartans could routinely play spoilers to teams with much higher expectations.

Look for Smith and the Big Ten's best kicking game to key a couple of victories. Dave Rayner is the conference's best kicker, and if Brandon Fields doesn't go into a sophomore slump, he'll be the Big Ten's top punter.