For the last five years, three teams have dominated the Ivy League: Pennsylvania, Princeton and Dartmouth. The Quakers, Tigers and Big Green have consistently recruited the best players, leaving the rest of the conference scrambling to keep pace.

The 1996 season might mark the year in which the rest of the league catches up. While the Big Three (of football, anyway) have lost many of their most talented players to graduation, perennial also-rans like Harvard and Brown finally have legitimate shots at contending.

Without further ado, here's a preview of how the race for the Ancient Eight title should shape up:

Dartmouth Big Green

Projected Rank: #1

Head coach: John Lyons

1995 Ivy Record: 4-2-1

Outlook: Dartmouth's defense was spectacular last year, holding opponents to 14 points or less in seven of 10 games. Senior co-captain Mark Abel led the way, making 136 tackles from his linebacker position. Although the Big Green passing game is relatively weak, senior co-captain Greg Smith (178 carries for 826 yards) brings a strong ground game to bear on opposing defenses.

Princeton Tigers

Projected Rank: #2

Head coach: Steve Tosches

1995 Ivy Record: 5-1-1

Outlook: While the quarterback picture is murky, the Tigers return running back Marc Washington, who gained 937 yards and scored seven touchdowns last season. Kevin Duffy (41 receptions for 583 yards and nine touchdowns) is the league's premier receiver. Princeton is also strong on defense; Damani Leech grabbed eight interceptions last season, anchoring a stellar secondary.

Pennsylvania Quakers

Projected Rank: #3