Washington State Cougars 2009 College Football Predictions: It will take more than new uniforms in 2009 for things to improve in Pullman for the Washington State University Cougars football team. The Cougars and head coach Paul Wulff could use some good news after going 2-11 in 2008 and they are getting it with the return of 14 starters and plenty of depth that will be depended on to fill the gaps. Also the team finished its 2008 conference slate with the only PAC-10 victory over cross-state rival Washington. The bottom line for the Cougars - things can only get better in 2010.

Oddsmakers at Sportsbook.com, an online leader in college football wagering, are not expecting WSU to be in the hunt for a BCS Championship in 2010; however, PAC-10 member USC is expected to be high in the mix at +700 odds.

While WSU will be flying under the radar in 2009, locals are expecting better things out of the program, especially with returning signal-callers Kevin Lopina and sophomore Marshall Lobbestael. Lopina played the majority of the season in 2008 after Lobbestael sufferred a knee injury. Due back on the sideline by fall drills, it is expected the two will duel for the starting job. Last year Lopina played in  nine games on the season, eight in a starting role where he completed 87-of-153 passes for 841 yards with 11 interceptions. Lupina's first career start came at Baylor, where he completed 17-of-26 passes for 174 yards.

The Cougars will be experienced on the line with the return of four key offensive lineman led by senior Kenny Alfred and junior Andrew Roxas. Also returning to the Cougars line are junior Micah Hannam and sophomore B.J. Guerra.

While the Cougars will show some improvement in 2009, their level of talent isn't where it needs to be to contend for a PAC-10 title. The Cougars will finish near or at the bottom of the league again.