The 2004 Top 10 It's never too early for a look ahead. Here's a very early forecast for next season

RANK SCHOOL RECORD RETURNING STARTERS

1. USC 12-1 17

Although they lose three starters on the offensive line, the
Trojans will still be explosive with QB Matt Leinart, WR Mike
Williams and RB Reggie Bush.

2. Oklahoma 12-2 21

The Sooners have plenty to look forward to: Heisman-winning QB
Jason White was granted a rare sixth year, and All-America LB
Lance Mitchell returns from a knee injury.

3. Georgia 11-3 20

Behind LBs Thomas Davis and Odell Thurman, the Bulldogs'
dominating defense could be even stronger, and QB David Greene
should return to all-conference form.

4. Florida 8-5 9

Led by blossoming stars in QB Chris Leak, RB DeShawn Wynn and LB
Channing Crowder, the Gators could be the fastest team in the
nation next season.

5. LSU 13-1 14

If Nick Saban stays in Baton Rouge, the Tigers won't fall far.
Despite losing DE Chad Lavalais and possibly QB Matt Mauck, they
have a ton of talent, led by WR Skyler Green.

6. Miami 11-2 12

The Hurricanes always reload. Kyle Wright will push Brock Berlin
at QB, and RB Frank Gore returns from a knee injury to challenge
rising star Tyrone Moss.

7. Texas 10-3 17

O.K., maybe this is the year. The Longhorns lose a talented
receiving trio, but QB Vince Young could be one of the most
dynamic playmakers in school history.

8. Kansas State 11-4 11

The defense won't be as strong, but the Wildcats will have little
trouble scoring points with superb RB Darren Sproles running
behind a veteran offensive line.

9. Florida State 10-3 16

In WRs Craphonso Thorpe and P.K. Sam, and RBs Leon Washington and
Lorenzo Booker, QB Chris Rix has a scary array of weapons, but he
must be more consistent.

10. Ohio State 11-2 9

Though QB Craig Krenzel graduates, his successor, Justin Zwick,
will have a pair of playmakers to throw to in wideouts Santanio
Holmes and Bam Childress.