New coaches facing varied challenges in Big East

Notes: Among the three offensive line starters to be replaced are OT Anthony Davis, a first-round NFL draft pick … Savage completed 52 percent of his passes with 14 TDs and seven interceptions as a freshman. He has the potential to develop into the finest passer in school history. … Soft nonconference schedule includes Norfolk State, FIU, Tulane and Army.

USF _ Key players: QB B.J. Daniels, RB Moise Plancher, DT Keith McCaskill. Returning starters: 10 offense, 5 defense.

Notes: Daniels was pressed into service as a freshman when Matt Grothe was injured early last season. He responded with an up and down season, but showed that he’s got plenty of talent, running for 772 yards and passing for 1,983. … Daniels expects less designed quarterback running plays under Holtz. …. Six of the Bulls’ top seven tacklers from last season are gone.

SYRACUSE _ Key players: RB Delone Carter, LB Derrell Smith, LB Doug Hogue. Returning starters: 5 offense, 6 defense.

Notes: Orange made good strides in Doug Marrone’s first season as coach, even though they won only four games, but still much work to do … Sophomore Ryan Nassib takes over at quarterback. … Orange good news to start preseason. Carter, who was suspended last semester and did not participate in spring practice after being charged with misdemeanor assault, will be returning to school and the team.

LOUISVILLE _ Key players: RB Victor Anderson, WR Doug Beaumont, KB Brandon Heath. Returning starters: 7 offense, 6 defense.

Notes: Adam Froman and Justin Burke vie for quarterback job though neither looked particularly promising last season. … Anderson missed spring practice with a shoulder injury but is expected to be the main ball carrier for the Cardinals. … Cardinals recorded only 21 sacks last year. Expect Strong to figure out a way to up that total.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.