BYU Cougars
2000 overall record: 6-6
Conference record: 4-3 (t-3rd)

Returning starters
Offense: 7
Defense: 6
Kickers: 1

2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Luke Staley* (479 yds)
Passing: Charlie Peterson* (1,630 yds)
Receiving: Margin Hooks (718 yds)
Tackles: Justin Ena* (107)
Sacks: Setema Gali (6.5)
Interceptions: Tyson Smith (4)

What's new
For the first time since 1961, LaVell Edwards will not be present on the BYU sideline. Utah native Gary Crowton takes over the program and has already added much energy to the practices and a competitive attitude. He also brought in a new strength and conditioning coordinator, Jay Omer from Georgia Tech, who has challenged the players even further. And don't worry, Crowton is a big proponent of putting the ball in the air. Some things at BYU never change.
Battling it out
Quarterback is always the focus of attention in Provo, and there is plenty of competition to be Crowton's first starter. Brandon Doman ended last season as the starter, so he is listed at No. 1. The original first-team QB in 2000, Bret Engemann, is still recovering from offseason shoulder surgery, while a third starter from a year ago, Charlie Peterson, broke his collarbone in the spring. Redshirt freshman Todd Mortensen is back from a mission and also in the mix.
Eye catcher: CB Jernaro Gilford
Gilford saw very limited action as a freshman in '99 and then left school after being suspended by the university for the 2000 season. But he re-enrolled in January and returned to the team for spring practice. He was dominant at corner, including a 70-yard interception return for touchdown in the spring game. Gilford is almost an unquestioned starter entering the fall.
Budding star: LB Paul Walkenhorst
As a true freshman last year, he started 10 games and made 48 tackles, including nine behind the line of scrimmage. In the spring, he earned all three linebacker positions but should continue to play outside. He is huge for an outside backer (6-5, 250) and is a determined player with good speed. He is overshadowed by MLB Justin Ena but still could be one of the better linebackers in the Mountain West.

Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.