2010 ACC Preview

Hey there guys

We are now just 17 DAYS AWAY FROM THE BEGINNING OF THE 2010 COLLEGE FOOTBALL SEASON!!!

Today I am going over the ACC which has plenty of big name schools in Florida State, Virginia Tech, Miami (FL), Georgia Tech, Clemson, and Boston College, but this conference still gets very little respect, and I can see why. They have gone 9-16 over the last 3 bowl seasons, and have gone 1-9 in their last 10 BCS Bowl Games. This is not what many people expected when Miami, Virginia Tech, and Boston College left the Big East and joined the ACC. Many though that the ACC would become one of the premier conferences in college football. While they are better off they are not what many expected. They have been improving though and although they went 3-4 in last seasons bowl games, their 4 losses were close losses as Miami didn't take too well too the cold last season and lost by 6 to Wisconsin 14-20, North Carolina lost a close battle with #17 Pittsburgh 17-19, Georgia Tech's offense never got moving but their defense kept it close in 14-24 loss to Iowa in the Orange Bowl, and Boston College traveled across the country and to lose by 11 to surprisingly unranked USC 13-24. They did look pretty solid in their 3 wins as Clemson took out Kentucky 21-13, Florida State sent Bobby Bowden out on a winning note beating West Virginia 33-21 and Virginia Tech stomped Tennessee 37-14 in the Chick-fil-A bowl.

This season the ACC has 5 teams that enter the season ranked in the Coaches Top 25, and all 5 are in the Top 20: #20 Florida State, #18 North Carolina, #17 Georgia Tech, #13 Miami, and #6 Virginia Tech. If the ACC is going to regain favor in the public eye they are going to have finish with at least 4 teams in the top 25 and keep improving in the postseason.

Anyway guys here are my 2010 ACC Picks, and as always you know I love to hear your thoughts and comments.

ACC
(cp - coaches poll/ ap - associated press)

Coastal Division

1. #13(cp) Miami Hurricanes
'09 Final Record: 9-4 (5-3)

Offense (Pro Set)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #4 Passing Off - 288.3 yards per game
• #4 First Downs - 21.0 first downs per game
• #4 3rd Downs - 46.0% conversion

Returning: 6 Starters

• Passing: QB Jacory Harris (242-406 59.6% 3352yds 24td 17int), QB A.J. Highsmith (4-6 66.7% 53yds 1td)
• Rushing: RB Graig Cooper (134att 695yds 5.2avg 4td), RB Damien Berry (93att 616yds 6.6avg 8td)
• Receiving: WR Leonard Hankerson (45rec 801yds 17.8avg 6td), WR Travis Benjamin (29rec 501yds 17.3avg 4td)

Despite having a Head Coach that is a former Defensive Coordinator and mulitple Offensive Coordinators, this offense has actually improved in each of HC Randy Shannon's 3 years. Through 2 games last season QB Jacory Harris was a heisman candidate but from then on he was good, but a lot of interceptions (17 #2 NCAA). He should be improved this season, and he returns his top 5 receivers including 2nd tm All-Conf WR Leonard Hankerson, and very talented, yet often injured, WR Aldarius Johnson (16rec 276yds 17.2avg 1td). They do lose both of their TEs from a year ago but current starter Richard Gordon (Med RS '09) was the opening day starter last season but after being injured was RS. This is the best group of receviers in the ACC. Along the offensive line though they are not as prepared returning only 2 starters from a year ago including 3rd tm All-Conf LT Orlando Franklin. Another name to watch out for is very highly touted OL Seantrel Henderson (top five OL recruit out of HS). He may not start immediately but I would be willing to be you he will either be starting or seeing a healthy amount of playing time before the year is over. Despite the inexperience this O-Line is very talented so I expect too much of dropoff. If they can play at the same level as last year, returning QB Harris should be very improved and I expect the passing numbers to increase. At RB though I am not as optimistic as they weren't a great running team last season, and leading rusher and starter Graig Cooper tore his ACL and is doubtful for the season. Backup Damien Berry was impressive in his starts though, and there are several highly touted true frosh but I still expect the numbers to decrease a little bit.

Defense (4-3 Multiple)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #3 Rushing Def - 119.1 yards per game
• #3 Opp 3rd Downs - 36.0% conversion

Returning: 7 Starters

• Tackles: MLB Colin McCarthy (95tkl 10.5tfl 1sk 1int), CB Brandon Harris (58tkl 6tfl 15pbu 2int)
• Sacks: DE Allen Bailey (34tkl 11tfl 7sk) DE Marcus Robinson (17tkl 6tfl 4sk)
• Interceptions: CB Brandon Harris, DT Micanor Regis (19tkl 3tfl 2int)

In his 6 years as a Defensive Coordinator Randy Shannon put together some fantastic defenses. Since 2001 though the 3 worst defenses that the 'Canes have put together have all come while Shannon has been head coach. This season they return 7 starters including 3 along the defensive line including 1st tm All-Conf DE Allen Bailey. While Bailey may get the spotlight I feel like the other 3 starters are ready to have great seasons, DE Marcus Robinson, frosh AA '08, finished second on the team in sacks a year ago, DT Josh Holmes (22 6tfl 1sk) had a solid season in his first season as a starter, and DT Marcus Forston was a frosh AA in '08 before being inj and RS LY. If they stay healthy this line should greatly improve their numbers from a year ago. At LB they return 2 starters including 2nd tm All-Conf MLB Colin McCarthy, and '08 Frosh AA OLB Sean Spence (36tkl 6.5tfl 3sk). The other projected starter at OLB is Ramon Buchanan (28tkl 3.5tfl) who started seeing playing time when Spence was injured last year. I expect both Spence and Buchannan to have solid years and McCarthy is a Defensive Player of the Year candidate. In the Secondary they return 2 starters including 1st tm All-Conf CB Brandon Harris. Like the D-Line the secondary has its star but I feel like the other 3 starters are about to have solid seasons as CB DeMarcus Van Dyke (30tkl 3pbu 1int) has plenty of starting experience, highly touted sophomore, and returning starter, SS Vaugh Telemaque (48tkl 2tfl 4pbu) has all-conf potential, and highly touted sophomore FS Ray-Ray Armstrong (21tkl 1pbu) has drawn comparisons to Sean Taylor. Also look for highly touted sophomre CB Brandon McGee to start receiving increased playing time. This could be one of the best secondaries in the country by seasons end.

Conclusion

The Hurricanes have a very interesting out of conference schedule this season as they play Florida A&M, @ Ohio St, @ Pittsburgh, and South Florida. We will find out really quickly if the "U" is a national title contender when they head to Columbus on 9/11. @ Pittsburgh and home against South Florida are both winnable, albeit, challenging games. I fully expect Miami to go 3-1 in their OOC, but wouldn't be surprised if they went 2-2. In conference the 'Canes go @ Clemson, Florida St, @ Duke, North Carolina, @ Virginia, Maryland, @ Georgia Tech, and Virginia Tech. I feel like the Coastal Division is going to be decided by 4 (Georgia Tech, Miami, North Carolina, Virginia Tech) and Miami has the better schedule of the 4 as they pick up a a winnable road game @ Clemson, and Florida St and Maryland at Home. If they can take care of business against the other big 3 then I expect them to win this division and battle for the conference title.

2. #18(cp) North Carolina Tar Heels
'09 Final Record: 8-5 (4-4)

Offense (Pro Style)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #10 Scoring Off - 20.9 points per game
• #9 Passing Off - 166.8 yards per game
• #9 First Downs - 16.0 first downs per game
• #10 3rd Downs - 36.7% conversion

Returning: 10 Starters

• Passing: QB T.J. Yates (214-355 60.3% 2136yds 14td 15int), QB Braden Hanson (2-6 33.3% 7yds 2int)
• Rushing: RB Ryan Houston (191att 733yds 3.7avg 9td), RB Shaun Draughn (124att 567yds 4.6avg 1td)
• Receiving: WR Greg Little (62rec 724yds 11.7avg 5td), WR Erik Highsmith (37rec 425yds 11.5avg 2td)

Offensively the Tar Heels haven't averaged more then 350 yards per game since '04. Since HC Butch Davis took over in '07 they have actually gotten worse in his time here going from 325 yards per game in '07, to 321 yards per game in '08, to 308 yards per game in '09. This year though they return 10 starters and I will actually be looking for improvement. They return QB T.J. Yates who has been often injured throughout his career. I actually expect that either highly touted rFr Bryan Renner or highly touted sophomore Braden Hanson start taking significant snaps before the season is over. They do return 4 starters along the offensive line and I expect the new LT to be very highly touted true frosh James Hurst (top five OL recruit out of HS). They return all of their WRs and TEs including do it all WR Greg Little, who I expect to have the best year of his career, and HM ACC TE Zack Pianalto (former WR). This group is filled with talent including very highly touted sophomore Jheranie Boyd (12rec 214yds 17.8avg 4td; former top ten WR recruit out of HS). With 4 returning starters on the O-Line one of the better receiving corps in the ACC I expect the passing numbers to increase no matter who is the starting QB this season. In the backfield they return both leading rushers frmo ayear ago in Shaun Draughn and Ryan Houston (combined 1280yds 10td combined), with an improved passing game, an exeperienced offensive line, and two experienced backs I expect the Heels to have their best run game since '05 (176ypg/4.9ypc).

Defense (4-3)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #2 Scoring Def - 19.8 points per game
• #4 Passing Def - 198.1 yards per game
• #1 Rushing Def - 107.8 yards per game
• #3 Opp First Downs - 17.5 first downs per game
• #1 Opp 3rd Downs - 32.5% conversion
• #4 Takeaways - 15

Returning: 9 Starters

• Tackles: OLB Quan Sturdivant (79tkl 12tfl 3pbu), CB Charles Brown (66tkl 3tfl 9pbu 3int)
• Sacks: DE Robert Quinn (52tkl 19tfl 11sk), DE Quinton Coples (22tkl 6.5tfl 5sk)
• Interceptions: FS Deunta Williams (47tkl 8pbu 6int), CB Kendric Burney (52tkl 5.5tfl 3pbu 5int)

Through HC Davis first two years the Heels had some pretty good defenses but then last season they improved and became one of the ACC's best (21.2ppg/366ypg '08; 17.1ppg 270ypg '09). This season they return 9 starters including 7 All Conference performers. The D-Line is the only group that lost starters, as they lost two NFL Draft Choices in DT Cam Thomas and DE E.J. Wilson. They do return 1st tm All-Conf DE Robert Quinn and 2nd Tm All-Conf DT Marvin Austin (42tkl 6tfl 4sk). They also return highly touted DT Tydreke Powell (24tkl 4tfl 2sk), who would have been starting at just about any other school had he not been behind Thomas last season. The other DE Quinton Coples played behind Wilson, and still finished 2nd on the team in sacks last season. Behind Coples is very highly touted DE Donte Paige-Moss (top five DE recruit out of HS). And I wouldn't be surprised to see highly touted true frosh Brandon Willis get some playing time this season as well. I expect this defensive line to actually improve upon last years fantastic numbers (96 rush ypg/2.8ypc/33sk), and this is easily the best defensive line in the conference and one of the best in the country. At LB they return all 3 starters including 1st tm All-Conf OLB Quan Sturdivant and 2nd tm All-Conf OLB Bruce Carter (65tkl 7.5tfl 2sk 1int). The returning starter is highly touted sophomore MLB Kevin Riddick (45tkl 5.5tfl). This is one of the best LB units in the country. They return all 4 starters in the secondary including 1st tm All-conf CB Kendric Burney, 1st tm All-Conf FS Deunta Williams, 2nd Tm All-Conf SS Da'Norris Searcy (35tkl 3pbu 1int), and CB Charles Brown (team lead in PBU LY). I would also pay attention to highly touted rFr CB Terry Shankle. Again this is one of the best units in the country and North Carolina may very well have THE BEST DEFENSE in the NCAA this season.

Conclusion

This season the out of conference schedule for the Tar Heels is pretty interesting as they get LSU in the Georgia Dome, @ Rutgers, East Carolina, and William & Mary. I actually expect North Carolina to beat LSU to open the season, and if they can do that they should sweep their OOC and go 4-0. In conference they get Georgia Tech, Clemson, @ Virginia, @ Miami,Fl, @ Florida St, Virginia Tech, NC State, and @ Duke. If North Carolina wants to cast aside all of the doubters they will need to be Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech at home, and go 1-1 in road games @ Miami and @ Florida St. Don't kid yourselves if North Carolina's offense can be at the very least serviceable then they are a legitimate National Title contender.

2. #6(cp) Virginia Tech Hokies
'09 Final Record: 10-3 (6-2)

Offense (Multiple)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #1 Scoring Off - 33.6 points per game
• #2 Rushing Off - 205.1 yards per game
• #3 3rd Downs - 46.6% conversion
• #1 Turnovers - 10

Returning: 8 Starters

• Passing: QB Tyrod Taylor (136-243 56.0% 2311yds 13td 5int), QB Ju-Ju Clayton (1-5 20% 80yds 1td)
• Rushing: RB Ryan Williams (293att 1655yds 5.6avg 21td), QB Tyrod Taylor (106att 370yds 3.5avg 5td)
• Receiving: WR Jarrett Boykin (40rec 835yds 20.9avg! 5td), WR Danny Coale (30rec 614yds 20.5avg! 2td)

The Hokies haven't had an exciting offense since the Vick Bro. years, but this past season they had their best season since '04 (31.8ppg/392ypg '09). This year they return 8 starters including QB Tyrod Taylor. Taylor, who drew comparisons to Vick, actually spent more time in the pocket this past season and became a much more polished passer. Tayler does return his top 6 receivers from a year ago including 2nd tm All-Conf WR Jarrett Boykin. I also expect for Danny Caole and highly touted sophomore WR Marcus Davis (5rec 125yds 25.0avg 1td; 6'4 234) to have breakout season this year as well. And while this offense did not utilize the TE that much last season I look for returning starter Andre Smith and highly touted true frosh Jerome Lewis to make a bigger impact this season. If Taylor continues to improve as a passer I look for VaTech to have their best passing numbers in at least the last decade. The real key to this offense though is the run game, and the Hokies may have the best in the country this season. They return 3 starters on the O-Line including 3rd tm All-Conf C Beau Warren. At the two open positions I expect a couple of highly touted underclassmen to take over in rFr LG David Wang, and so LT Nick Becton. Because of the experience and new talent I expect them to improve on their level of play, which is wonderful news for RB's Ryan Williams and Darren Evans (1265yds 2nd All-Conf '08; inj LY). Williams was a frosh AA last season breaking Evans frosh rushing record with 1655yds. With these two back, plus very highly touted sophomore David Wilson (top ten RB recruit out of HS) I will call this the best running back group in the ACC and is right up their with Alabama as far as best backfield. This should be one of the best offenses in the modern era for VaTech.

Defense (4-3)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #1 Scoring Def - 15.9 points per game
• #1 Passing Def - 159.8 yards per game
• #3 Rushing Def - 113.1 yards per game
• #1 Opp First Downs - 14.5 first downs per game
• #4 Opp 3rd Downs - 34.4% conversion

Returning: 4 Starters

• Tackles: MLB Barquell Rivers (96tkl 6.5tfl 4pbu), CB Rashad Carmichael (55tkl 4tfl 1sk 6pbu 6int)
• Sacks: DE Chris Drager (22tkl 6.5tfl 2.5sk), SS Davon Morgan (47tkl 2.5tfl 1.5sk)
• Interceptions: CB Rashand Carmichael, DT Antoine Hopkins (16tkl 1tfl .5sk 4pbu 1int)

Defensive Coordinator Bud Foster is one of the all time great college coordinators and the Hokies almost always field one of the top 2-3 best defenses in their conference and this past year was no different as for the 6th consecutive season they held opponents to less than 20 points per game (15.6) and less than 300 yards per game (295). During this span he has only had 7+ returning starters twice so he knows how to rotate his players well and work with inexperience. This season they return only 4 starters including 1 along the D-Line. That starter is DT John Graves (15tkl 2tfl), who I believe is quite underrated. I expect DE Chris Drager (former TE) to have a breakout season after collecting 6.5tfl and 2.5sk last season in limited action. Watch out for two highly touted true frosh in DE Zack McCray and DT Nick Acree. I expect them to be in the rotation and maybe even start some this season. Despite the inexperience I imagine that Bud Foster will form another solid D-Line though I expect the sack total will go down this season. Virginia Tech runs an interesting version of the 4-3 with essentially two MLB's and one floating OLB, they call it a whip linebacker. They return one ILB in Barquell Rivers, who I consider one of the better backers in the ACC. They have loads of young talent in this group and it wouldn't surprise me to see highly touted underclassmen such as Bruce Taylor, Chase Williams, and/or Nick Drew crack the rotation and make an impact this season. I expect coaching and talent should offset the inexperience this season, making them on par with '09. In the secondary they return 2 starters including one of the best CB in the conference in Rashad Carmichael. I expect a couple of highly touted underclassmen to make an impact this season in so CB Jayron Hosley (frosh AA Returner) and rFr FS Antone Exum. Despite the inexperience I still expect a solid unit but nowhere near as good as last years (167ypg 47%). This should again be one of the better defenses in the conference.

Conclusion

The out of conference schedule is essentially made up of one game for the Hokies. The opener vs. Boise St played in FedEx Stadium. They could destroy James Madison, East Carolina, and Central Michigan (like they should) but if they lose to Boise St to open the season then it will not be considered a success. In conference they go @ Boston College, @ NC State, Wake Forest, Duke, Georgia Tech, @ North Carolina, @ Miami, and Virginia. When I look at this schedule I immediately expect at least 4 wins, over NC State, Wake Forest, Duke and Virginia. I give VaTech a slight edge @ Boston College and home against Georgia Tech. And I expect them to lose @ North Carolina and @ Miami. If they can find a way to win all that is expected and then upset either UNC or the "U" they very well could win this division.

4. #17(cp) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
'09 Final Record: 11-3 (8-1)

Offense (Triple Option)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #4 Scoring Off - 33.3 points per game
• #12 Passing Off - 111.8 yards per game
• #1 Rushing Off - 315.1 yards per game
• #4 First Downs - 21.0 first downs per game
• #1 3rd Downs - 49.2% conversion
• #1 Turnovers - 10

Returning: 6 Starters

• Passing: QB Josh Nesbitt (75-162 46.3% 1701yds 10td 5int), QB Tevin Washington (1-1 100% 21yds)
• Rushing: QB Josh Nesbitt (279att 1037yds 3.7avg 18td), RB Anthony Allen (64att 618yds 9.7ypc 6td)
• Receiving: RB Embry Peeples (8rec 244yds 30.5avg 1td), WR Stephen Hill (6rec 137yds 22.8avg 1td)

Paul Johnson became Head Coach of the Yellow Jackets back in '08 and installed the Triple-Option offense which he was famous for making work at Navy for 6 seasons. In his first season the offense actually regressed a little bit from the previous season but in '09 Georgia Tech had their best offense in at least a decade averaging 33.8ppg and 422ypg. This year they return the leader of the Triple-O in 1st Tm All-Conf QB Josh Nesbitt. They do lose All-Conf FB/RB Jonathan Dwyer, but they return the wing RBs in Anthony Allen, who will replace Dwyer at FB, and Roddy Jones (53att 345yds 6.5avg 3td). I expect highly touted junior Marcus Wright, who is small and speedy to take over the open wing back spot. They line returns only 2 starters from a year ago including 1st tm All-Conf C Sean Bedford. They look to add some talent though with highly touted rFr RG will Jackson and highly touted junior RT Nick Claytor. One of the things that made the triple option at Georgia Tech so deadly was that you had to be prepared for WR Demaryius Thomas (46rec 1154yds 25.1avg 8td '09), who was constantly beating secondaries and scoring long Tds. This year Thomas is gone and there isn't anyone on the roster as physically gifted as he was. I expect the overall numbers to go down this season with the loss of Dwyer, an inexperienced line, and a much less threat in the passing game.

Defense (3-4)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #4 Scoring Def - 23.8 points per game
• #2 Opp First Downs - 15.4 first downs per game

Returning: 8 Starters

• Tackles: MLB Brad Jefferson (95tkl 8tfl), CB Jerrard Tarrant (58tkl 6pbu 2int)
• Sacks: MLB Steven Sylvester (40tkl 4tfl 3sk), two tied at 2
• Interceptions: CB Jerrard Tarrant, CB Mario Butler (45tkl 4.5tfl 3pbu 2int)

After two "pretty good" seasons on Defense I really like the hire by Paul Johnson to bring in former Virginia Head Coach Al Groh ('01-'09) to be Defensive Coordinator. Groh knows the ins and outs of each team and Virginia always had a solid D while he was there. This season the Yellow Jackets return 8 starters on defense as they switch to a 3-4. They return 3 on the Defensive line, though they do lose 1st tm AA DE Derrick Morgan. I like what they have returning especially in DEs Jason Peters (11tkl 1tfl), Izaan Cross (10tkl), and rFr JC Lanier. They should fare better against the run this season but with the loss of Morgan I expect their sacks to drop. At LB they return both ILBs in 3rd Tm All-Conf Brad Jefferson and Steven Sylvester. I expect both to be All-Conf this season. There isn't much talent or production coming back at the OLB spots this season. With Jefferson and Sylvester back I expect them to a slight bit better than last year. In the secondary they return 3 starters including 3rd Tm All-Conf CB Jerrard Tarrant. I also like CB Mario Butler and feel like this may be one of the more underrated CB Duos in the conference. Starting FS Mario Edwards (VaTech transfer) should have a nice season, and I would suggest paying close attention to two highly touted true frosh in Louis Young and Ryan Ayers. They may find their way in the starting lineup some this season.

Conclusion

The out of conference schedule for the Yellow Jackets is pretty interesting this season as they play South Carolina St, @ Kansas, Middle Tennessee, and @ Georgia. They should beat South Carolina St, they should also beat Kansas and Middle Tennessee but both squads are good enough to pull off the upset if the Yellow Jackets aren't careful. The game at Georgia is always a great game with the last 5 contests being decided by an average of less than 7 points. I expect 3-1 but wouldn't be overly surprised to see 4-0. In conference they go @ North Carolina, NC State, @ Wake Forest, Virginia, @ Clemson, @ Virginia Tech, Miami, and finally home against Duke. The Yellow Jackets have a legit chance to win the coastal division but road games @ North Carolina, @ Clemson, and @ Virginia Tech, along with that home game against Miami are all going to be very tough, and I expect them to slip up a few tims along the way. I do not think Georgia Tech will match last seasons 11 wins.

5. Duke Blue Devils
'09 Final Record: 5-7 (3-5)

Offense (Spread-No Huddle)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #1 Passing Off - 323.9 yards per game
• #12 Rushing Off - 43.1 yards per game
• #4 Turnovers - 11

Returning: 9 Starters

• Passing: QB Sean Refree (34-50 68.0% 330yds 4td 2int)
• Rushing: RB Desmond Scott (70att 262yds 3.7ypc 1td), RB Jay Hollingsworth (54att 179yds 3.3avg)
• Receiving: WR Donovan Varner (65rec 1047yds 16.1avg 8td), WR Conner Vernon (55rec 746yds 13.6avg 3td)

Under former Head Coach Ted Roof the Blue Devils never averaged more than 300 yards per game. In current Head Coach David Cutcliffe's first two seasons they have averaged 304ypg in '08 and 369ypg '09. This year they return 9 starters on offense but lose career leading passer, and two time All-ACC (both under Cutcliffe) QB Thaddeus Lewis (10,065yds). Despite the loss of Lewis I don't think there passing offense is going to be down as they return highly touted sophomore QB Sean Refree, who looked impressive in his limited playing time this past season and he has plenty of things going his way heading into this season. For one it helps that they return 4 starters on the offensive line, and while no one on the line is overwhelming they are all plenty experienced. The Blue Devils also return their top 3 receivers from a year ago including 1st tm All-Conf WR Donavan Varner and 2nd Tm All-Conf WR Conner Vernon. Both are solid receivers and I also like TE Brett Huffman (18rec 167yds 9.3avg 3td). With an experienced line and the top 5 receivers returning I expect Renfree to actually have similar numbers to '09. Something else that will help take the pressure off of Renfree is the return of their top 3 leading rushers, including highly touted sophomore RB Desmond Scott. True Frosh Josh Snead was in for the spring and may back up Scott this season. I expect the run game to improve drastically, having their best numbers since '03 (172ypg/3.8ypc).

Defense (4-3)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #9 Scoring Def - 29.9 points per game
• #11 Opp 3rd Downs - 49.6% conversion

Returning: 6 Starters

• Tackles: SS Matt Daniels (83tkl 3tfl 6pbu), MLB Damian Thornton (60tkl 6tfl)
• Sacks: DE Wesley Oglesby (15tkl 4tfl 1.5sk) four tied with 1
• Interceptions: CB Lee Butler (39tkl 2.5tfl 1sk 4bpu 1int)

Like the offense, the best years in recent Duke History have been during Cutcliffe's 2 seasons. This season they return 6 starters. They return 2 along the defensive line though they lose their two best in 3rd Tm All-Conf DT Vince Oghobaase (37tkl 7.5tfl 2sk) and DE Ayanga Okpokowuruk (40tkl 9.5tfl 6sk). They have a ways to go to play at the level of the '09 unit but NG Charlie Hatcher (39tkl 7tfl 1sk) is a solid player and I would keep an eye on former TE Kenny Anunike at DE. I expect this unit to drop in both rush defense and pass rush. At LB they return 2 starters, but lose 2nd tm All-Conf OLB Vincent Rey (98tkl 8.5tfl 1sk 2int). They do return some solid starters in MLB Damian Thornton and OLB Abraham Kromah (40tkl 2.5tfl). There are a couple of freshman that I would keep an eye on in rFr Kevin Rojas and true frosh Kelby Brown. Despite the loss of Rey this group is more experienced than last years squad and more talented. In the secondary they return 2 starters from a year ago including CB Chris Rwabukamba (46tkl 2tfl 7pbu) who was pretty solid a year ago and SS Matt Daniels (returning leading tackler). Look out for former WR Johnny Williams (31rec 385yds 12.4avg 1td) and CB Lee Butler who was pretty impressive as a backup this past season. I look for this secondary to improve upon last season's numbers.

Conclusion

The out of conference schedule has some interesting games for Duke this season as they play Elon, Alabama, Army, and @ Navy. They should beat Elon, and lose to Alabama. If they want to make a legitimate push towards the postseason in '10 than they are going to need to take care of business against the service academies. They can, and should, beat Army at home, though the Black Knights are going to be much tougher this season than in years past. The real key game is going to be @ Navy. Again winnable, but Navy is a very solid, and potential top 25 team this season. If they can find a way to take out the midshipmen than they will have set themselves up for potential postseason play. In conference @ Wake Forest, @ Maryland, Miami(FL), @ Virginia Tech, Virginia, Boston College, @ Georgia Tech, and North Carolina. This is a tough schedule for the Blue Devils to get. Outside of Virginia, the games the games they probably have the best chance of winning are on the road, @ Wake Forest and @ Maryland. Because Cutcliffe has produced a solid team in each of his first two seasons I expect they'll upset someone else along the way, but will once again miss the postsesaon.

5. Virginia Cavaliers
'09 Final Record: 3-9 (2-6)

Offense (Pro Style)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #12 Scoring Off - 15.4 points per game
• #11 Passing Off - 146.5 yards per game
• #11 Rushing Off - 86.5 yards per game
• #12 First Downs - 14.1 first downs per game
• #11 3rd Downs - 32.5% conversion
• #1 Turnovers - 10

Returning:6 Starters

• Passing: QB Marc Verica (28-63 44.4% 156yds 1int)
• Rushing: RB Torrey Mack (23att 73yds 3.2ypc), RB Dominique Wallace (14att 49yds 3.5avg)
• Receiving: WR Kris Burd (31rec 413yds 13.1avg 1td), WR Tim Smith (15rec 204yds 13.6avg 2td)

Offensively the Cavaliers have been struggling to find their way since the'05 season when they averaged 26.7ppg 366ypg. Since then they have topped 300ypg once and 20ppg once. This season they have a new Head Coach in Mike London (Richmond HC L2Y), and return 6 starters. QB Marc Verica has plenty of starting experience but hasn't been overly successful under center (17int last two seasons), but Mike London was pretty adamant that Verica is his starter. Whether or not that was a smart decision we will find out. The Cavs do return 3 receivers from last season in WRs Kris Burd and Tim Smith and TE Joe Torchia (15rec 150yds 10.0avg 2td). The offensive line returns 3 starters from a season ago but the big one to watch out for is very highly touted true frosh OL Morgan Moses (top five OL recruit out of HS). If Moses does indeed start then this O-Line should automatically be better than last years. With the leading returning WR back, experienced QB Verica, and experienced and talented O-Line I expect the passing numbers to increase, if only because I can't imagine them getting much worse (171ypg 52%). As far as the running game is concerned they lose a lot, but get back Keith Payne (quit before '09 season; 6'3 255) and have highly touted freshman in rFr Dominique Wallace and true frosh RB Kevin Parks. Despite the inexperience I can't imagine that they can be worse than this past season (99ypg/2.9ypc). This offense should be better.

Defense (7-Man Front)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #3 Passing Def - 191.8 yards per game
• #11 Rushing Def - 182.8 yards per game
• #3 Takeaways - 9

Returning: 6 Starters

• Tackles: MLB Steve Greer (92tkl 6.5tfl 1sk 3pbu), SS Rodney McLeod (62tkl 3tfl)
• Sacks: DE Zane Parr (33tkl 4.5tfl 3.5sk), two tied at 2
• Interceptions: CB Ras-I Dowling (58tkl 2.5tfl 8pbu 3int), Chase Minnifield (28tkl 2tfl 2int)

Defensively the Cavaliers were always pretty good under former HC Al Groh. It will be interesting to see how new HC London's defenses do as he is switching them to a 4-3. They do return 2 starters along the defensive line, and add in '09 starting OLB Cam Johnson (40tkl 5tfl 2sk). Starting DT Nick Jenkins (41tkl 2tfl) has all-conf potential. This season I expect the production from the d-line to improve in both rush defense and pass rush. At LB they only return 1 starter but the starter they do return is Frosh AA in MLB Steve Greer. I expect highly touted sophomore OLB Ausar Walcott (10tkl) to take one of the OLB spots and with the return of Greer this group should be more improved. In the secondary they return 2 starters including 2nd Tm All-Conf CB Ras-I Dowling and SS Rodney McLeod (2nd returning leading tackler), however they do lose All-Conf CB Chris Cook (40tkl 6pbu 4int). Former WR Chase Minnifield had a solid season as a CB last season and I fully expect him to have a very solid season this year. The last two seasons the Cavs have had some good pass defenses (184ypg 59% '08/ 185ypg 56% '09) and despite the loss of CB Cook I expect them to have an even better season this year.

Conclusion

The Out of conference schedule is pretty manageable for the Cavaliers this season as they take on Richmond, @ USC, VMI, and Eastern Michigan. While both Richmond and VMI will be challenging I do expect Virginia to win both and finish their OOC 3-1. In conference they face Florida St, @ Georgia Tech, North Carolina, Miami (FL), @ Duke, Maryland, @ Boston College, and @ Virginia Tech. Simply put I would not get my hopes up this season if I was a Cavaliers fan. Their winnable games are @ Duke and home against Maryland. If they can take both of those and somehow manage to upset someone else they might make a bowl but I expect another rebuilding year for the Cavaliers.

Atlantic Division

1. #20(cp) Florida State Seminoles
'09 Final Record: 7-6 (4-4)

Offense (Multiple Set)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #3 Scoring Def - 33.5 points per game
• #3 Passing Def - 294.5 yards per game
• #4 Rushing Def - 153.0 yards per game
• #2 First Downs - 22.5 first downs per game
• #2 3rd Downs - 48.9% conversion
• #9 Turnovers - 17

Returning: 8 Starters

• Passing: QB Christian Ponder (227-330 68.8% 2717yds 14td 7int), QB E.J. Manueal (69-106 65.1% 817yds 2td 6int)
• Rushing: RB Jermaine Thomas (163att 832yds 5.1avg 9td), RB Ty Jones (51att 251yds 4.9avg 5td)
• Receiving: WR Bert Reed (60rec 710yds 11.8avg) WR Taiwan Easterling (35rec 442yds 12.6avg 2td)

In '07 Head Coaching legend Bobby Bowden hired Jimbo Fisher to be Offensive Coordinator and Head Coach in Waiting, and since then the Florida State offense has improved each year. This season they return 8 starters including QB Christian Ponder, who has AA potential if he can stay healthy. His backup is very highly touted sophomore E.J. Manueal (former top five QB recruit out of HS). One thing Ponder definitely has going in his favor this season is that he returns all 5 starting lineman from a year ago including 1st Tm AA LG Rodney Hudson and 3rd Tm All-Conf LT Andrew Datko. This should be the ACCs best Offensive Line. He only returns one starter among his receivers in WR Bert Reed (2nd leading receiver '09), and they suffered a big loss this off season when returning starter WR Jarmon Fortson (45rec 610yds 13.6avg 4td '09) was kicked off the team, however this group is full of highly touted players, and other projected starter WR Taiwan Easterling has played a major part of this offense the past two seasons. I expect very highly touted WR Christian Green (top ten WR recruit out of HS) to play a big part of this offense this season and this may be one of the most talented receiving corps in the country. With experience and talent along the line, a talented receiving corps, and a healthy QB Ponder I expect this to be one of the better passing games in the country. I am also a fan of the run game as, like the receivers, they are full of talent, including 3rd tm All-Conf RB Jermaine Thomas. His two top backups are highly touted sophomores Lonnie Pryor (27att 156yds 5.8avg 4td) and Chris Thompson (23att 120yds 5.2avg 2td). I expect this group to continue to put up solid numbers and helpt take the pressure off of Ponder. This looks to be the top offense in the ACC.

Defense (4-3 Multiple)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #11 Scoring Def - 34.8 points per game
• #12 Rushing Def - 222.2 yards per game
• #12 Opp First Downs - 22.5 first downs per game
• #10 Opp 3rd Downs - 45.5% conversion
• #2 Takeaways - 16

Returning: 5 Starters

• Tackles: OLB Nigel Bradham (93tkl 5.5tfl 2sk 1int), MLB Kendall Smith (85tkl 7tfl 2sk 1int)
• Sacks: OLB Mister Alexander (17tkl 6tfl 5sk), three tied at 2
• Interceptions: CB Ochuko Jenije (31tkl 4int), CB Greg Reid (23tkl 6pbu 2int)

This past season was the worst defense that I can remember at Florida State (30.0ppg 435ypg). DC Mickey Andrews retired with Bowden this past season, either out of loyalty or shame at his final season in Tallahassee. The new DC is the youngest of the Stoops brothers, Mark, who was the Defensive Coordinator at Arizona under his brother Mike, for the past 6 seasons. The first thing he is going to need to do is work on the Seminoles run defense, as they gave up 205ypg 5.4ypc with only 26sk, their worst numbers in YEARS. This season they return 2 starters (lost starting DT Moses McCray to injury this off season) but they return a lot of talent, including very highly touted sophomore DT Jacobbi McDaniel (former top five DL out of HS), and returning starter DE Markus White (38tkl 10.5tfl 2sk). I expect their to be a big focus on stopping the run this season so I expect their rush defense to greatly improve this season. At LB they return two starters in MLB Kendall Smith and OLB Nigel Bradham, their two leading tacklers from a year ago, and this may be more the most talented LB corps in the country. The other OLB spot is going to be a battle between two very highly touted true Frosh Jeff Luc and Chrisian Jones (both top five LB recruits out of HS) and Sr. Mister Alexander (5sks '09 2nd on team). Overall I expect this group to help the defense improve by leaps and bounds this year and both Bradham and Smith are All-Conf potential. In the secondary the Seminoles return only 1 starter from a year ago when, like the Rush D, had one of their worst seasons in a while (since '07 at least), as they gave up 230ypg 59.8%. They only return 1 starter this season, and they lose 1st round draft choice CB Patrick Robinson (52tkl 11pbu '09). They do return a lot of talent this season including their returning starter CB Ochuko Jenije, along with Robinson's backup very highly touted CB Greg Reid (former top ten DB recruit out of HS). Both safeties are highly touted sophomores in Nick Moody (33tlk) and Jajuan Harley (4tlk). I expect Reid to have an outstanding season and for this secondary to be really improved this year. This should be one of the most improved defenses in the country this season.

Conclusion

The Seminoles out of conference schedule has some big match ups as they take on Samford, @ Oklahoma, BYU, and Florida. They should beat Samford, if they don't have a drastically improved defense they have no shot @ Oklahoma, I expect them to beat BYU, who will be looking for revenge after the Seminoles smoked them last season, and against Florida 3 of my 7 power ratings actually call for the Seminoles to win this one. I wouldn't be surprised to see them go anywhere between 1-3 and 3-1 in the OOC this season. In conference they get Wake Forest, @ Virginia, @ Miami (FL), Boston College, @ NC State, North Carolina, Clemson, and @ Maryland. I expect the Seminoles to sweep their division games with the closest one being @ Maryland, but if they can pull off the divisional sweep and win @ Virginia than they should take home the Atlantic Division.

2. Boston College Eagles
'09 Final Record: 8-5 (5-3)

Offense (Pro Set)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #9 Scoring Off - 21.8 points per game
• #10 Passing Off - 154.5 yards per game
• #11 First Downs - 15.6 first downs
• #12 3rd Downs - 25.0% conversion
• #11 Turnovers - 18

Returning: 8 Starters

• Passing: QB Dave Shinskie (149-288 51.7% 2049yds 15td 14int), QB Mike Marscovetra (13-22 59.1% 135yds 2td 1int)
• Rushing: RB Montel Harris (308att 1457yds 4.7avg 14td), RB Rolandan Fitch (28att 134yds 4.8avg 1td)
• Receiving: WR Colin Larmond (29rec 596yds 20.6avg 5td), TE Chris Pantale (25rec 223yds 8.9avg 1td)

The Eagles offense has really struggled the past two seasons averaging 24.7ppg 319ypg in '08 and 24.8ppg 324ypg in '09. This season they return 8 starters, making this the most experienced BC offense in a while. Since Matt Ryan left in '07 (coinciding with the recent lack of success) this offense has really been run oriented, so it is good that BC returns 2nd Tm All-Conf RB Montel Harris, and highly touted sophomore Rolandan Finch. They also return 4 starters on the offensive line including 1st tm All-Conf LT Anthony Castonzo and HM ACC C Nathan Richman. This line has got plenty of talent and I wouldn't be surprised to see highly touted sophomore Mike Goodman in the rotation before the end of the season. With 4 returning on the Line, including Castonzo, and RB Harris I expect the rushing numbers to be their best since '03. As far as the passing game goes they have been way off since Ryan left, having their worst seasons in recent memory (177ypg 52.0% '08/ 187ypg 50.4% '09). This season they return former minor league baseball player QB Dave Shinskie, but don't return any starting wideouts. They do however return H-Back Lars Anderson (8rec 102yds 12.8avg 1td), and TE Chris Pantale. WR Colin Larmond had a solid season LY and I expect him to take over as the leading receiver and I am expecting highly touted true frosh WR Shakim Phillips to make a pretty big impact this season, and maybe end up the starter before it is all said and done with. BC should have its best passing game, and its best overall offense, in 3 years.

Defense (4-3)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #9 Passing Def - 242.1 yards per game
• #2 Rushing Def - 113.9 yards per game
• #2 Opp 3rd Downs - 34.4% conversion
• #2 Takeaways - 16

Returning: 6 Starters

• Tackles: MLB Luke Kuechly (158tkl 13tfl 1sk 4pbu 1int), CB Donnie Fletcher (51tkl 1int)
• Sacks: DT Damik Scafe (35tkl 6.5tfl 2sk), six tied with 1
• Interceptions: FS Wes Davis (46tkl 2tfl 3pbu 3int), SS Dominick LeGrande (36tkl 3tfl 1sk 2int)

Current Head Coach and former Defensive Coordinator Frank Spaziani (12 years as BC DC) has fielded some fantastic defenses in his years at BC and this year should be no different. Over the last 6 seasons the Eagles have given up more than 330ypg just once ('04) and 20ppg or more just once ('07). This season they return 2 starters along the defensive line in DT Damik Scafe and DE Alex Albright (32tkl 8tfl 1sk), who both have all conf potential and I expect solid season out of them. Also keep your eye on the new starter at DT, highly touted rFr Dillon Quin. I think he is going to be a good one. While this line gave up 3ypc for the first time in 2 seasons last year I expect them to again hold opponents below the 3ypc mark and to also improve upon last seasons poor sack total (18sks, lowest last 7 years). At LB they only return 1 starter from last season but they also return all-conf OLB Mark Herzlich (missed '09 cancer), and the starter they return next to him is 1st tm frosh AA MLB Luke Kuechly. OLB Mike Morrissey (37tkl 7tfl 1sk 3pbu) has plenty of starting experience and should split time with a couple of highly touted true frosh Kevin Pierre-Louis and Kevin Devitto. Herzlich broke his foot this summer but if he can return healthy then this is one of the conference's best LB Corps. In the secondary they return only 2 starters in CB DeLeon Gause (49tkl 4pbu) and FS Wes Davis. I was pretty impressed with Donnie Fletcher this past season and expect him to start opposite of Gause at CB and as a backup SS Dominick LeGrande still tied for 2nd on the team in interceptions this past season. This past season the Eagles had a poor pass defense (224ypg 61.8%) but I expect them to make a pretty big improvement this season. This is one of the ACCs best defenses.

Conclusion

The Eagles out of conference schedule has it's moments but should be very manageable. They face Weber St, Kent st, Notre Dame, and @ Syracuse. They can and should beat Notre Dame and Syracuse, though i do expect Notre Dame to be a little bit better this season and Syracuse is quietly becoming one of the more improved teams in the country. I expect a 4-0 OOC for BC but wouldn't be surprised with 3-1. In conference they get Virginia Tech, @ NC State, @ Florida St, Maryland, Clemson, @ Wake Forest, @ Duke, and Virginia. They should take care of NC State, Wake Forest, and Duke on the road and if they can upset Virginia Tech early in the season they have a pretty solid chance of winning the division.

3. Clemson Tigers
'09 Final Record: 9-5 (6-3)

Offense (Pro Style)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #1 Scoring Off - 33.6 points per game
• #3 Rushing Off - 176.2 yards per game
• #9 Turnovers - 17

Returning: 7 Starters

• Passing: QB Kyle Parker (205-369 55.6% 2526yds 20td 12int)
• Rushing: RB Andre Ellington (68att 491yds 7.2avg 4td), RB Jamie Harper (80att 424yds 5.2avg 4td)
• Receiving: WR Xavier Dye (14rec 236yds 16.9avg 3td), WR Marquan Jones (9rec 176yds 19.6avg 1td)

C.J. Spiller and James Davis made for one of the best rushing duo in the NCAA. Davis left as the schools 2nd all time leading rusher (3881yds '05-'08) and Spiller left as the schools 3rd all time leading rusher (3547yds '06-'09). This is the first time in 5 years that neither will take the field as a part of this football team. This year though they return a "Thunder & Lightning II" with highly touted sophomre RB Andre Ellington the lightning (5'10 180) and RB Jamie Harper the thunder (6'0 230). Together these two rushed for a combined 909yds as Spillers back ups last season. This year it is just them and highly touted rFr Roderick McDowell. They also return 4 starters up front including 2nd Tm All-Conf LT Chris Hairston. This is a very talented, and young offensive line, though they are plenty experienced. I expect for projected new starter LG David Smith to have a fine season this year as well. Despite the loss of Spiller I actually expect the rushing numbers to improve with the experience up front and the talented backfield. Up until this past season the Tigers also had a pretty solid pass attack, but in '09 they only threw for 192ypg 56.4%. This season though they return QB Kyle Parker, but they lose the top 3 receivers (Spiller included). WR Xavier Dye saw plenty of action last season as did WR Marquan Jones, but this year they add in some highly touted freshman in rFr Bryce McNeal and true frosh Martavis Bryant and DeAndre Hopkins. Also keep an eye on highly touted sophomore TE Dwayne Allen (10rec 108yds 10.8avg 3td; former top ten TE recruit HS) as I expect him to get a lot more looks now that he has a full season under his belt. The Passing game numbers should improve this season with an experienced QB Parker, talented receivers and experienced O-Line.

Defense (4-3)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #3 Scoring Def - 23.1 points per game
• #2 Passing Def - 171.6 yards per game
• #4 Opp First Downs - 17.6 first downs per game
• #1 Takeaways - 22

Returning: 6 Starters

• Tackles: CB Marcus Gilchrist (107tkl 2tfl 1sk 6pbu), OLB Brandon Maye (103tkl 7tfl 3sk 1int)
• Sacks: OLB Brandon Maye, DE De'Quan Bowers (58tkl 11tfl 3sk)
• Interceptions: SS DeAndre McDaniel (102tkl 5tfl 2sk 2pbu 8int), FS Rashard Hall (63tkl 3tfl 2pbu 6int)

I have to be honest, I have known that Clemson has had some good defenses but I was surprised when I looked at the numbers over the last few seasons to see just how good they were. Over the last 7 seasons the most ypg they have give up is 336ypg ('03) and the most points per game is 20.8 ('04). This has just been one of the ACCs best defenses recently. This season they return 6 starters making them the least inexperienced group since '06. Up front they return 3 starters but lose 2nd Tm All-Conf DE Ricky Sapp (60tkl 15tfl 5sk '09). They do return some fantastic talent though including HM ACC DT Jarvis Jenkins (69tkl 11tfl 1sk) and Da'Quan Bowers (former top five DL recruit HS). I expect for Jenkins to have continued production and the way that Bowers has been playing tells me that he is ready for a breakout season this year. They also have NG Brandon Thompson (50tkl 2tfl) who is another talented DT, and I expect DEs Andre Branch (46tkl 8tfl 2sk) and Malliciah Goodman (31tkl 5tfl 2sk; former top five DL recruit out of HS) to battle for the other DE spot and no matter who wins the job they will still be in good shape. Despite the loss of Sapp I expect this D-Line to continue to improve upon their run d, while I expect the sacks to roughly remain the same. At LB they reutrn only 1 starter in OLB Brandon Maye. The rest of this group is filled with inexperience but I expect for some talented guys to step up including highly touted sophomore MLB Corico Hawkins and highly touted true frosh Justin Parker. While these guys are very talented they are also very inexperienced so I expect them to be down compared to last year. In the secondary they return 2 starters but this could very well be one of the best secondaries in the ACC. CB Marcus Gilchrist had a fantastic season this past year and should make the All-Conf team as senior and starting opposite of Gilchrist should be CB Byron Maxwell (36tkl 5pbu 2int) who played great in his time as a backup this past season. Look for highly touted sophomore CB Spencer Adams to make a push for playing time as well. Back at S they return 1st tm AA SS DeAndre McDaniel, who has played both LB and SS in his career here at Clemson. Back with McDaniel is sophomore FS Rashard Hall. Combined the projected starting S's bring back 14 int alone. I expect Hall to have a solid season in his first as a full time starters and for McDaniel to have another outstanding season. This group should be on par with the '09 unit.

Conclusion

The Tigers play an interesting out of conference schedule that even includes a couple of SEC teams that went bowling a year ago. They open up with North Texas, Presbyterian, @ Auburn and South Carolina. This is one of those situations where I expect Clemson to go 2-2 in this situation but wouldn't be surprised if they pulled off one upset over an SEC team and went 3-1. In conference they get Miami (FL), @ North Carolina, Maryland, Georgia Tech, @ Boston College, NC State, @ Florida St, and @ Wake Forest. This is going to be a tough conference schedule for the Tigers. They pick up Miami, North Carolina, and Georgia Tech from the Coastal Division and if they can't go 2-1 in those 3 games then they won't have much of a chance at winning the Atlantic division this season. I do however expect for Clemson to continue their Bowl Streak to 6.

3. Maryland Terrapins
'09 Final Record: 2-10 (1-7)

Offense (Multiple Set)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #11 Scoring Off - 20.1 points per game
• #10 Rushing Off - 102.6 yards per game
• #10 First Downs - 15.9 first downs per game
• #9 3rd Downs - 37.1% conversion
• #4 Turnovers - 11

Returning: 7 Starters

• Passing: QB Jamar Robinson (46-85 54.1% 459yds 2td)
• Rushing: RB Da'Rel Scott (84att 425yds 5.0avg 4td), RB Davin Meggett (99att 338yds 3.4avg 6td)
• Receiving: WR Torrey Smith (61rec 824yds 13.5avg 5td), WR Adrian Canon (44rec 468yds 10.6avg 4td)

The Terrapins offense has been pretty consistent over the past 4 seasons, averaging between 315-350ypg and 21-24ppg over the last 4 seasons. This season they return 7 Starters, 3 of those where it mattters, on the O-Line. This offensive line is going to have to improve this season if they are going to do as well as I am projecting as last year their rushing numbers dropped from 144ypg 4.3ypc in '08 to 106ypg 3.1ypc in '09, and they gave up more sacks as well (28sk '08; 36sk '09). This season I do expect improvement and I also expect for a couple of highly touted rFr to step in as well in Pet White in the RG spot and Pete DeSouza in the LT spot. They may not start right off the bat but I expect them to be starting as the year progresses. If this line can progress the right way I expect for Da'Rel Scott (1st tm All-Conf '08; Inj LY) to have another big season for the Terrapins. Overall this rushing attack should be greatly improved from a season ago putting up numbers similar to '08 (144ypg 4.3ypc) with the experience and talent up front and the Scott + backups all returning. As far as the passing game goes they lose their 2nd all time leading passer in QB Chris Turner (6543yds '07-'09) and replacing him is QB Jamarr Robinson. Robinson is a more mobile QB (53att 229yds 4.3avg) but did a decent job this past season when replacing Turner. One thing going in his favor is the return of his 3 leading receivers from a season ago including 1st Tm All-Conf WR Torrey Smith, WR Adrian Cannon, and WR Ronnie Tyler (28rec 346yds 12.4avg 1td). That is huge that they are bringing back Smith, and Cannon who I believe has all-conf potential as well. I would also keep an eye on highly touted sophomore WR Kevin Dorsey who should see increased playing time this season. The Terrapins didn't really use their TE's too much this past season but I expect that to change, and for them to even go to the occasional two TE set as they have former WE Lansford Watson (former top ten WR recruit out of HS), who reminds some of Vernon Davis, and very highly touted sophomore TE Devonte Campbell (former top ten TE recruit out of HS). Look for both Watson and Campbell to make huge impacts for the Terrapins this season. This offense will improve based on the way the O-Line improves.

Defense (Multiple Set)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #11 Passing Def - 263.3 yards per game
• #9 Opp First Downs - 19.9 first downs per game
• #4 Takeaways - 15

Returning: 5 Starters

• Tackles: MLB Alex Wujciak (131tkl 8.5tfl 1sk 2int), OLB Adrian Moten (68tkl 9tfl 6sk 3pbu)
• Sacks: OLB Adrian Moten, OLB Demetrius Hartsfield (64tkl 6.5tfl 3.5sk)
• Interceptions: CB Cameron Chism (66tkl 4pbu 4int), MLB Alex Wujciak

Last season the Terrapins had a new DC in Don Brown (former UMASS HC) and they had their worst numbers in a long time giving up 31.3ppg 396ypg. They did only return 4 starters last season so despite the fact that they only return 5 starters this season they are still more experienced than last year. Up front they only return 1 starter in NT A.J. Francis (31tkl 1.5tfl 1sk), and the other interior line starter should be highly touted rFr De'Onte Arnett. The problem for the D-Line is that I don't expect much pressure, or production, from the DE's. Still this unit is more experienced than a year ago and with the addition of Arnett I expect them to increase upon last season's rush defense (151ypg 3.9ypc '09). At LB is where this defense makes its living and they return all 3 starters from this past season including 1st tm All-Conf MLB Alex Wujciak. I thought that both OLB's Adrian Moten and Demtrius Hartsfield had great years as well, as they finished #1 and #3 on the team in sacks last season, while Moten also proved well in pass coverage (3pbu). This season they are one of the ACCs best LB corps and watch out for a couple of underclassmen to make an impact as backups in highly touted sophomore Darin Drakeford and highly touted true frosh Javarie Johnson. In the secondary they only return 1 starter in CB Cameron Chism, who I think has the ability to be all-conf this season. Someone is going to have to step up at the other corner spot, and I don't see anyone tht is really ready for that challenge just yet. While they don't return any starters at S they do return some great talent in SS Antiwn Perez (45tkl 2pbu; USC transfer '07; former top five DB recruit out of HS), and former highly touted WR Kenny Tate (47tkl 3.5tfl 2pbu 1int). They also have some solid, albeit yougn, talent behind them in highly touted rFr Travis Hawkins and highly touted true frosh Titus Hill. Despite the inexperience I actually expect the Terrapins to improve upon last seasons poor numbers (246ypg 60.9%).

Conclusion

The out of conference schedule has its gimme's and its challenges for the Terrapins as they play Navy (in Baltimore), Morgan St, @ West Virginia, and FIU. The Navy game is going to be very interesting and we will be able to tell really quickly whether or not the Terrapins are for real this season. They should beat Morgan St, and I expect a loss at West Virginia, and a win at home against FIU. While I expect the Terrapins to go 2-2 in their OOC I wouldn't be surprised to see them come out 3-1. In conference they get Duke, @ Clemson, @ Boston College, Wake Forest, @ Miami (FL), @ Virginia, Florida St, and NC State. I expect the Terrapins to be bowl eligible this season and if they go 2-2 in the OOC than whether or not they make it to the postseason is going to hinge on whether or not they can take care of business at home (3-1), and if they can beat Virginia on the road. The Cavaliers are expected to have a pretty good defense this season, and if Maryland slips up in a game they should win it will cost them an extra game.

5. NC State Wolfpack
'09 Final Record: 5-7 (2-6)

Offense (Pro Style)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #9 Rushing Off - 110.1 yards per game
• #3 First Downs - 21.8 first downs per game
• #12 Turnovers - 22

Returning: 7 Starters

• Passing: QB Russell Wilson (224-378 59.3% 3027yds 31td 11int), QB Mike Glennon (24-39 61.5% 248yds 1td 2int)
• Rushing: QB Russell Wilson (103att 260yds 2.5avg 4td), RB Brandon Barnes (25att 79yds 3.2avg 1td)
• Receiving: WR Owen Spencer (30rec 765yds 25.5avg! 6td), WR Jarvis Williams (45rec 547yds 12.2avg 11td)

This past season the Wolfpack had their best offensive year since all time leading QB Phillip Rivers (13484yds '00-'03) final season in '03. They return 7 starters this season (equal in experience to last year) and whether or not they continue to have a high powered offense will depend on how well an inexperienced O-Line and running attack form. At O-Line they only return 2 starters in RG R.J. Mattes and LT Jake Vermiglio. They do have some new talent this season and I expect them to have some new talent find their way into the starting rotation in highly touted Juco RT Mikel Overgaard, highly touted true frosh Tyson Chandler, and of the course very highly touted true frosh Robert Crisp (top five OL recruit out of HS). HC Tom O'Brien is known for putting together some solid offensive lines so it will be interesting to see how this inexperienced group plays. As far as the running game is concerned they lost their top two rushers from a year ago and with as little experience as they have I expect them to turn to a couple of highly touted true frosh in Anthony Creecy and Mustafa Greene. If last years returning leading rusher, highly touted sophomore RB Brandon Barnes can come back well from his ankle injury in the spring than I expect this group to actually improve upon last season's numbers. The reason why I placed a lot of emphasis on the running game and O-Line is because those are the factors that will help take pressure off of QB Russell Wilson. Wilson is one of the ACCs best and if teams have something else to worry about than he can pick them apart. This year he returns his top 4 receivers in big play WR Owen Spencer (25.5avg #1 NCAA), TD machine WR Jarvis Williams (11td #1 ACC), 1st tm All-Conf TE George Bryan (40rec 422yds 10.6avg 6td), and "the other guy" WR Darrell Davis (25rec 380yds 15.2avg 1td). This is one of the best receiving corps in the ACC and if the run game and O-Line can be adequate I expect improved numbers from this group.

Defense (4-3)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #12 Scoring Def - 39.4 points per game
• #12 Passing Def - 270.6 yards per game
• #10 Rushing Def - 170.6 yards per game
• #11 Opp First Downs - 21.5 firs downs per game
• #12 Opp 3rd Downs - 52.7% conversion
• #12 Takeaways - 10

Returning: 5 Starters

• Tackles: OLB Audie Cole (85tkl 8tfl 4sk 4pbu), OLB Dwayne Maddox (54tkl 4tfl 1sk 3pbu)
• Sacks: OLB Audie Cole, two tied at 1
• Interceptions: OLB Terrell Manning (48tkl 2tfl 4pbu 1int), DE Michael Lemon (24tkl 4tfl 1sk 5pbu 1int)

While the Wolfpack's numbers may be increasing each year since '07, their defense was pretty miserable in conference play this past season (see Key Stats above). This year they return 5 starters from that defense as well but they do get back MLB Nate Irving (inj LY) who O'Brien called the best player on the defense prior to the '09 season. He'll join the 3 returning starters at LB including OLB Audie Cole, and I am still scratching my head as to why he wasn't all-conf this past season. OLB Dwayne Maddox and Terrell Manning round out this solid group that looks to be greatly improved this season. While they return 3 (essentially 4) starters at LB they return 0 starters along the d-line. In fact this group returns only 8 career starts. That being said I do like '08 highly touted juco DT Natanu Mageo (8tkl 2tfl) and DE Michael Lemon. Despite the lack of experience if those two play like I expect they may not drop as much as you think. In the secondary they return 2 starters and this looks to be a young group as I see them starting all sophomores in CB C.J. Wilson (21tkl) CB Jarvis Byrd (18tkl), SS Earl Wolff (51tkl 1pbu) and FS Brandan Bishop (41tkl 2pbu). The past two seasons the Wolfpack have had miserable pass defenses (249ypg 62.2% '08/ 222ypg 62.6% '09) and with this much inexperience I don't see them being any better this year.

Conclusion

The Wolfpack have an interesting out of conference schedule this season as they get Western Carolina, @ Central Florida, Cincinnati, and @ East Carolina. All of these games are winnable. They should beat both Western Carolina, if they can have an improved defense and running game they could very easily go to UCF and win, they are going to be in a track meet with Cincinnati, and while East Carolina may be down they are lead by a former Defensive Coordinator in Ruffin McNeil. I could easily see NC State going 1-3 or 4-0. In conference they go @ Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech, Boston College, Florida St, @ Clemson, Wake Forest, @ North Carolina, and @ Maryland. Every single one of these games is tough. I don't foresee any postseason play for the Wolfpack unless they can pull of some upsets

5. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
'09 Final Record 5-7 (3-5)

Offense (Pro Style)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #2 Passing Off - 305.3 yards per game
• #1 First Downs - 23.3 first downs per game

Returning: 6 Starters

• Passing: WR Marshall Williams (3-3 100% 52yds)
• Rushing: RB Josh Adams (113att 541yds 4.8avg 4td), RB Brandon Pendergrass (83att 399yds 4.8avg 1td)
• Receiving: WR Marshall Williams (60rec 867yds 14.4avg 6td), WR Devon Brown (61rec 671yds 11.0avg 6td)

During all time leading passer QB Riley Skinner (9762yds '06-'09) the Deamon Deacons had their best passing numbers in a very long time. This season though I wouldn't expect that trend to continue as replacing Skinner at QB is former WR Skylar Jones and the Demon Deacons are switching to a more option oriented offense. I don't expect it to be a complete transition because Wake returns too much talent at WR to waste including 2nd Tm All-Conf WR Marshall Williams, speedy Devon Brown, and consistent WR Chris Givens (45rec 629yds 14.0avg 8td). Those 3 were one of the best WR combos in the ACC this past season. I do expect the passing numbers to drop, obviously because of the switch to a more run oriented offense, plus the QB's return 0 pass attempts, but also because Wake only returns 2 starters along the offensive line. C Russell Nenon and RG Joe Looney are both talented and experienced and I wouldn't be surprised to see them both have outstanding years but the rest is a question mark. New Starter at LT is highly touted junior Doug Weaver. I expect the passing numbers to more resemble '04 (145ypg 52.7%) than '09 (272ypg 65.5%). Something that is encouraging for Wake is the return of their top two backs in Josh Adams and Brandon Pendergrass (940yds combined) and with the switch to the option I expect to see both of their nubmers increase despite the inexperienced line. This offense is going to take a step back with the loss of Riley and whether or not they can be effective all depends on how quickly this offense grasps the option.

Defense (4-3)

Key '09 Stats (Conference Play)

• #10 Scoring Def - 31.8 points per game
• #10 Passing Def - 248.1 yards per game
• #9 Rushing Def - 156.8 yards per game
• #10 Opp First Downs - 20.3 first downs per game
• #9 Opp 3rd Downs - 40.7% conversion
• #11 Takeaways - 11

Returning: 7 Starters

• Tackles: SS Chyl Quarles (62tkl 1int), MLB Mat Woodlief (52tkl 1.5tfl 3pbu)
• Sacks: OLB Joey Ehrmann (25tkl 5.5tfl 3.5sk) two tied at 3
• Interceptions: CB Kenny Okoro (38tkl 11pbu 3int), four tied at 1

When the Deamon Deacons won the ACC back in '06 many contribute it to the solid play of frosh QB Riley Skinner, and while he was a big part in that magical season, I contribute it more to a defense who allowed only 323ypg and 15.4ppg. This past season the Demon Deacons fell one win short of a bowl birth and if you looked at their key stats from this past season you can see that their defense wasn't much help. This season they return 7 starters so they are much more experienced than the '09 defense (4 ret starters). Up front they only return 2 starters and they lose their outstanding interior line combo in NG Boo Robinson (37tkl 3tfl 1sk) and DT John Russell (46tkl 8tfl 4.5sk). They do return DE Tristan Dorty (41tkl 6tfl 3sk) who is poised for a big season this year. Outside of Dorty this unit is a huge question mark including the interior. I wouldn't be surprised to see two freshman starting in the middle for Wake this season in rFR DT Frank Souza and true frosh Antonio Ford. Overall this unit is down with the loss of their top two. At LB they return 2 starters including MLB Matt Woodlief who was solid in his starts. I like OLB Joey Ehrmann who finished 2nd on the team in sacks last season as a backup. I would also keep a clcose eye on highloy touted sophomore Scott Betros. This unit is hard to read but I expect slightly better play as they are much more experience than '09. In the secondary they return 3 starters including frosh AA CB Kenny Okoro, who should be one of the best CBs in the ACC this season, and returning leading tackler SS Cyhl Quarles. FS Alex Frey has all-conf potential and I wouldn't bes surprised to see highly touted true frosh A.J. Marshall end up as the other CB starer opposite of Okoro. Overall I look for a much better pass defense this season.

Conclusion

Wake Forest out of conference schedule is pretty interesting as well as they get Presbyterian, @ Stanford, Navy, and @ Vanderbilt. They should beat Presbyterian, I don't think they are ready to travel across the country and beat Stanford team that is one the rise just yet, their inexperience up front concerns me when they play Navy's triple option, and it is always tough to win on the road at an SEC team. I expect them to 1-3 but wouldn't be surprised to see 2-2. In conference play they get Duke, @ Florida St, Georgia Tech, @ Virginia Tech, @ Maryland, Boston College, @ NC State, and Clemson. While I expect Wake to beat Duke, the rest of these games look like a challenge and I think it is going to be a rebuilding year for the Deamon Deacons.

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If you haven't already be sure to check out my other 2010 NCAA Conference previews

Pac-10

Big East

Non-BCS Conferences

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Thank you for reading,

Batteman