Step right in

Replacing a quarterback can be one of the toughest transitions to make in college football. Now try replacing one of the greatest quarterbacks in the history of the game. That's what faces Southern California and Texas this season now that Vince Young and Matt Leinart are in the NFL. Texas will turn to Colt McCoy or Jevan Snead; neither has taken a snap in a college game. USC will hand the offense to John David Booty, but Mark Sanchez, another highly touted high school passer, looms. Across the country, teams are turning to untested talent to replace departed star signal-callers.

PENN STATE — Michael Robinson's running, passing and leadership made him as important to the Nittany Lions as Young was to Texas. Junior Anthony Morelli takes over with a big-time arm but not much mobility.

VANDERBILT — How good was SEC player of the year Jay Cutler? He had the Commodores one bad call away from beating Florida and Tennessee. Sophomore Chris Nickson and freshman Mackenzi Adams are dual-threats but look for Arizona transfer Richard Kovalcheck, who started 11 games the last two seasons, to get the nod.

ALABAMA — Brodie Croyle finally stayed healthy, and the Crimson Tide flourished. Now he's gone, and sophomore John Parker Wilson is No. 1. Fortunately for the new guy, RB Kenneth Darby is a two-time 1,000-yard rusher.

OREGON — Kellen Clemens was on his way to a huge season when he broke his ankle last year. The upside to the injury for coach Mike Bellotti was it allowed him to play Dennis Dixon and Brady Leaf. Dixon's mobility and arm could make him a star running the Ducks' spread offense.

CLEMSON — After eight seasons as the Tigers' starter (OK, it just seemed that way), Charlie Whitehurst is gone. Senior Will Proctor is a well-prepared replacement.