The Cincinnati Enquirer
The University of Cincinnati football team, coming off its first bowl appearance in 47 years, was picked to finish fourth this season in Conference USA by league coaches.
Southern Mississippi was predicted to win the conference (62 voting points), and East Carolina and Tulane tied for second place (49 points). UC (38) is in front of Houston, Memphis, Louisville and Army. Southern Miss got seven of eight first-place votes; Houston got the other.
UC defensive back Tinker Keck was picked first-team defense and first-team special teams and the preseason Special Teams Player of the Year, an award he won last season.
Bearcats offensive lineman Brian Uhl was chosen first-team offense.
The Bearcats finished last season 8-4, including a 35-19 victory over Utah State in the Humanitarian Bowl in Boise, Idaho. Coach Rick Minter was rewarded with a four-year contract extension. The Bearcats open Sept. 5 against Tulane.
1998 football schedule
Football story list
