STEWART MANDEL'S: EXTRA POINTS

Look for the Big East to pounce if, as appears increasingly likely, the Big 12 falls apart. With its ESPN television contract up for renegotiation in 2012, the Big East may go after such schools in limbo as Kansas and Missouri.... Severe weather cut short the debut of Michigan coach Brady Hoke. But the Wolverines' 34--10 three-quarter win over Western Michigan showed that their defense, under new coordinator Greg Mattison, was both more aggressive and more athletic.... USC failed to score in the second half of its 19--17 win over Minnesota. The Trojans have a seasoned QB (Matt Barkley) and one fantastic receiver (Robert Woods), but their lack of additional playmakers is surprising given their recruiting muscle—even in light of their four-year probation for NCAA rules violations.

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PETER READ MILLER (WOODS)