2006 Utep Miners Football Preview

Welcome to Maddux's 2006 Utep Miners season preview. As usual we have taken the time to break down the team, while providing information about the university, and the 2006 Utep Miners Football Schedule. If you are wagering on college football this season consider using Maddux Sports' College football picks for the added edge over the sportsbooks in 2006. In addition be sure to visit our college football odds line service for the upcoming season.

Coach: Mike Price (3rd year at Utep)
Team Name: Miners
2005 Overall Record: 8-3
2005 Conference USA Record 5-3
Returning Starters: 16

This is a team that seemed to lose gas down the stretch with loses to UAB, SMU and Toledo in the GMAC Bowl. QB Jordan Palmer (258 COMP, 434 ATT, 3,503 YDS, 29 TDs, 19 INTS) was on target at the start of the season but then succumb to the interception bug. Eight of his 19 errant throws occurred in the final 3 games.

But Palmer looks like he’s back and his offensive line, which is talented and deep, should give him sound protection. Senior WR Johnnie Lee Higgins (49 REC, 837 YDS, 9 TDs) is ready to have an explosive season, while junior TB Marcus Thomas (149 CARR, 791 YDS, 5 TDs) is ready to lead the rushing game.

The defense returns 10 starters, including WLB Jeremy Jones (130 tackles) and defensive end Alex Obomese (6.5 sacks). The safeties, junior Quintin Demps (3 INTS) and senior Joe Fleskoski (3 INTS), will be tough to beat. The senior defensive line will be solid.

Palmer suffered from a separated shoulder in his non-throwing arm last year. He’s healthy and has the potential to elevate the team’s post-season and his NFL stock. Texas Tech will be tough to beat, while swing games against San Diego State, Houston and Tulsa will be true tests. Look for this club to be in a bowl once again.

Utep Miners 2006 Schedule

Date
Opponent
Home/Road
Aug 31
San Diego State
Road
Sep 9
Texas Tech
Home
Sep 23
New Mexico
Road
Sep 30
New Mexico State
Home
Oct 7
SMU
Home
Oct 14
Tulane
Home
Oct 21
Houston
Road
Oct 27
Tulsa
Road
Nov 4
Rice
Home
Nov 10
UAB
Road
Nov 18
Marshall
Road
Nov 25
Memphis
Home

 

For more data on the 2006 Utep football program, view the Miners team website or check out some more schools below.

 

2006 Non BCS Team Previews

There are always a few teams not in the major BCS conferences that are major BCS bowl game contenders or popular teams to write about it. We have listed 12 of those teams below. For teams other than these contenders check out the main 2006 college football preview section of Maddux Sports.

Click here to return to the main other contenders page.


  • 20 Time Ultimate Handicapping Champion.
  • Well Respected Name in the Industry.
  • One of the few services that actually wins for their clients.
  • Highest Client Renewal Rate In the Industry.
  • Our Handicappers Bet The Same Games They Give Out.

The information contained at this site is for entertainment purposes only. Any use of this information in violation of any state, federal, or local laws is prohibited.
Copyright © MadduxSports.com - Premier Sports Picks and Sports Odds Web site