One of three new coaches in the Big 12, Steele welcomes back 18 starters that represent a talent base he can build upon. The biggest task is changing the mindset of a team that had become accustomed to losing under the departed Dave Roberts. That shouldn't be difficult, as he inherits a bright group. Baylor was one of 25 schools recognized nationally -- and the only one in the Big 12 -- for producing a football graduation rate better than 70 percent in 1999.

Wins won't come easily. Baylor ranked last in the Big 12 in rushing and total offense, and last in total defense. Steele is Baylor's third coach in four years, quite a contrast compared to the 31 years Grant Teaff called Waco home. He must make them believe they can win, and then show them how.

Despite the emphasis that Frazier will bring to the quarterback position -- and subsequently the passing game, which will feature two and three wideouts on third downs -- the Bears will work toward establishing a running game that will give the offense balance. Two backs will carry the load. Tailback Darrell Bush is quick, but small at 5-8, 189 pounds. Fullback Derek Lagway is probably the best option.

Four players with starting experience return to the offensive line, but Baylor will need some freshmen to provide depth. Center Joe Jackson, guard Chris Watton and tackle Greg Jerman will be asked to improve a unit that ranked 106th in the nation last season. A pair of redshirts, Everett Fraser and Chad Crady, could work their way into significant playing time.

The passing game managed just four touchdowns last year, but Baylor recruited just one wide receiver. That puts the onus on Mark Cogdill, who didn' join the team this spring because he was busy with the Baylor baseball team. Missing too were track athletes Andra Fuller, Martin Dossett and Randy Davis. Sophomore Kyle Staudt had the best spring.

Former strong safety Rodney Smith has moved to outside linebacker in the effort to upgrade the speed of the unit. Senior Kris Micheaux will bring his blue-collar playing style back to the middle linebacker spot. Junior Eric Clay will lend depth to the position. Rodney Smith has the early edge to start at the other outside position, but should be challenged by McKinley Bowie, a junior who packs 20 more pounds on his frame than Smith. Four players with considerable game experience will hope to solidify the secondary. Cornerback Gary Baxter has excellent coverage skills, and Robert Neal is a capable player at the other spot, if a bit undersized at 5-9. Sean Armistead is penciled in as the free safety.