OCTAVIO JONES | Times
Houston
Coach: Tom Herman (first season)
2014 record: 8-5 (5-3 in AAC; defeated Pittsburgh in Armed Forces Bowl)
Starters returning/lost: 13/9. Break it down to players with starting experience, and the Cougars return 11 on offense, 13 on defense and four on special teams.
Schedule's toughest stretch: A daunting November begins with home games against Cincinnati (Nov. 7) and Memphis (Nov. 14) and ends with a trip to Navy (Nov. 27). Don't be shocked if the clash with the Midshipmen determines the West Division champion.