I am often asked by Tulane football supporters, "why can't we win in Conference USA?"
The perception of the league is this: that of a mid-major league that should be much easier to win in than a BCS league. But, the truth of the matter is: Conference USA academic standards are often more lenient than the SEC.
Schools like Rice and Tulane, outstanding academic institutions, don't allow junior college players. But, every Saturday they play against schools that do.
A quick check of the C-USA class of 2009 shows 39 junior college players signed with league schools. Memphis and UAB had the most, tied with 7. Southern Miss, who returns to the Tulane schedule in 2009 signed 5.
When Southern Miss has a mid-season injury, they can plug the hole with an experienced player. Bob Toledo and his staff often don't have that luxury.
And, the results on the field show. I know Tulanians point to the recent success of Rice. My response: when quarterback Chase Clement and wide out Jarrett Dillard are gone, let's see just how successful Rice is.
SMU, a school of Tulane's genre, signed 2 jucos. This is a route that Tulane should consider.
Below is the Tulane football schedule for 2009:
Away- LSU, Army, SMU, Rice, Southern Miss, Central Florida
Home- BYU, Mc Neese, Houston, Tulsa, UTEP, Marshall
Ed Daniels
Thursday February 5