The traditional transition of power occurs in January. But now is the time to analyze the candidates and major issues. Let the '08 season debate begin. Ivan Maisel
• Schlabach: Hot and not | Podcast

There are lofty expectations in both the SEC (Georgia) and ACC (Clemson) this year.
• Maisel: Bulldogs | Schlabach: Tigers
• SEC: South Carolina ready | Predictions
• ACC: Wake's potential | Hokies' questions

Despite sustained success, Ohio State's bowl flops ignited criticism and became a BCS punch line. Fair or not, only a BCS win will give OSU the last laugh. Mark Schlabach
• Edwards: Voters tired of OSU? | Parity?

Say so long to the huddle. College football is emulating life's rapid pace. Thanks to the spread, the tempo that offenses move at has never been quicker. Ivan Maisel
• Maisel: Slow down | Nation's fastest

These days, the SEC's alpha-male coaching colony is as good as it gets. Pat Forde
• Forde: SEC's worst coach? | SN: Rank 'em
• Schlabach: National alphas | '08 hot seat
• Maisel: Black coach progress? | Podcast