Many bettors start their seasons by checking to see which teams returns the most starters from last season. While this can generally give some accurate epectation for the coming season, it does not always do so. You have to look closely at the numbers. Let's use the SEC as an example.

Four SEC teams are returning 15 starters from 2013. Now that is a nice high number and looks rather impressive, until you take a harder look at the numbers. Out of the four teams, Arkansas returns 7 starters on offense, Ole Miss and Texas A&M return 6, and Georgia returns 5. The huge difference is that Texas A&M and Georgia lose their starting QB's, one of which was a Heisman Winner at A&M and the other who re-wrote the record books at Georgia. Losses like that could put teams like A&M and Georgia behind teams that return less starters, but do return their QB's. Right now, Auburn comes to mind. Perhaps this is why Auburn is still considered a Top 10 team in 2014 by some, while A&M is basically not on the map.

Stats like these can also be used to make money in early non-con games. Indiana travels to SEC East Champion Missouri, and could be a 3-4 TD underdog rather easily. After all, Indiana's 2013 record was a disappointing 5-7, while Missouri lost just one game and defeated Big 10 power Ohio State in their Bowl Game. What many may not know is that Missouri returns only 9 starters, and loses their starting QB and RB. That ranks #122 in the nation. Indiana returns 18 starters including their QB, RB, and all 5 linemen on offense. That ranks #3 in the nation. This early season game may be a lot closer than the betting public thinks. Indiana +21 or more points would be very inviting.

Remember, when checking to see how many starters teams are returning, check to see who they are returning and who they are losing. Oregon and Georgia return the same number of starters, but there is no doubt that Oregon's returning class is much stronger than Georgia's. Just look at the QB position.