A: My explanation is actually within each preview. When I make projections for the upcoming year, I look at three specific factors: (1) how the team did last year, especially at the end of the year; (2) how many starters are back, specifically star starters; (3) the team's schedule - are the toughest games at home or on the road? Therefore, if you see a team had a good record a year ago, has a significant number of starters returning, and has a generous representation on the all-conference team, there's a good chance I feel good about their upcoming season.