Always tough to tell how teams will play in the first game of the season. The coaches often aren't even sure what they have, especially with the changes at Wesleyan and Williams. (Wesleyan sure has made a commitment to football: money for new coaches, help with admissions, transfers. I expect Whelan to have an impact, but it will take three years).

Here are my best guesses for the opening weekend:

Tufts over Hamilton: Hamilton is always moving around pieces, discarding upper classmen in favor of freshman.

Williams over Bowdoin: Bowdoin lost too many players and Williams returns most. Even with the new staff, Williams should have an advantage in talent.

Amherst over Bates: The Lord Jeffs will be fired up and Bates, well it's a good school and they're nice guys.

Colby over Trinity: A surprise. Colby returns most of their skill players and they're always a tough, physical team. They played well last season, except against Middlebury, and will build on that. Trinity will be good, but while they settle in, Colby comes n for the upset.

Middlebury over Wesleyan: Hard to stop the QB and Wesleyan lacks the players, especially on the O-line.

Of course, I'm not putting money where my mouth is, just a little fun. Good luck to all.