ACC: Clemson Tigers
Clemson meeting: Much ado about nothing
May, 24, 2012
May 24
2:00
PM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
Clemson's board of trustees will meet at 4 p.m. today, but a school spokesman told me the only thing that will be voted on will be tuition. Yes, the board members will discuss the recent speculation surrounding the Big 12, but more than anything, it's an informative session to make sure everyone is on the same page. Don't expect any major news out of this meeting on the expansion front.
I've spoken with several athletic directors and ACC officials, and I'm constantly hearing the same thing: Nobody is expecting anything to change anytime soon.
I believe them.
If -- and that's a huge if -- anything were to change, it wouldn't happen until after the new playoff format has been decided upon.
Don't you just hate it when a coach suddenly leaves, and your team is left in the lurch? The future of the program seems to hang in the balance without a sense of direction or leadership.
Imagine how North Carolina’s players feel. First Butch Davis was fired, and then they had to prepare for and play in a bowl game knowing interim coach Everett Withers was leaving for Ohio State.
Our “coaches we love to hate” theme continues today with coaches who have left teams in a lurch -- at unexpected or awkward times. It might have been for another job, because of a scandal, or a disagreement with the administration. Whatever the reason, they’re no longer coaching in the ACC.
Here are three of the more memorable departures in recent years in the ACC, and you'll notice a trend here: They're all in the Atlantic Division:
1. Former Clemson coach Tommy Bowden: There’s getting fired, and then there’s getting fired in October. In 2008, Bowden was fired four days after Clemson lost to Wake Forest. The Tigers were ranked No. 9 that year in the Associated Press preseason Top 25 and had been favored to win the ACC. Instead, Clemson started out 3-3, including a thud on the national stage with a 24-point loss to Alabama. Quarterback Cullen Harper added to the drama when he said Bowden deserved to be fired. After a decade of coming up short, Bowden offered to resign. Even though it happened midseason, it didn’t come as much of a surprise, considering Clemson had lost to Maryland and Wake Forest, starting out 1-2 in conference play. Dabo Swinney was named interim head coach for the rest of the season and took over the team heading into the Georgia Tech game. It was an emotional week for the Tigers, who lost to the Jackets 21-17. Swinney instituted a new tradition in the Tiger Walk. He started a new quarterback, Willy Korn. And eventually, he did what Bowden could not, and won the school’s first ACC title since 1991.
2. Former Boston College coach Jeff Jagodzinski:This story was about defiance. Athletic director Gene DeFilippo had specifically told Jagodzinski he could not interview with the Jets. He would be fired if he did. Jagodzinski did it anyway. And he was fired in January 2009. “I did everything in the spirit of the contract,” Jagodzinski told ESPN that year. DeFilippo said Jagodzinski was fired “without cause.” Jagodzinski lasted only two years at BC, and he had three years remaining on his contract. He was a smug coach, but he was also successful. In just two seasons, Jagodzinski led the Eagles to back-to-back ACC title games, losing both to Virginia Tech. They were 11-3 his first season, and ranked as high as No. 2 nationally. (Yes, we’re still talking about Boston College). It was Jagodzinski’s first head-coaching job. A year later, Jagodzinski was fired by Tampa Bay. The following year he was fired by the UFL’s Omaha Nighthawks. Interviewing with the Jets was one costly decision.
3. Former Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen (and his coach-in-waiting): This one is still puzzling. The ACC’s 2010 Coach of the Year was fired and replaced by the Big East Coach of the Year. The ACC’s 2010 Rookie of the Year was benched in favor of an inexperienced backup. Under that game plan, a nine-win bowl season deteriorated to a two-win disaster.
Huh?
“It didn’t need to end this way,” Friedgen told Mike Wise of the Washington Post.
Ironically, it didn’t end after his 2-10 season in 2009. Instead, Friedgen was given the opportunity to pull the program together, and he managed to do that with a respectable eight-win regular season and a win in the Military Bowl, Friedgen’s final game as head coach.
Athletic director Kevin Anderson, who at the time was new to the job, originally told Friedgen he would return for 2011. Anderson had issued a written statement saying that Friedgen would be allowed to coach the final year of his contract.
Friedgen called for an extension, and Anderson called an audible and gave Friedgen his buyout notice. Meanwhile, Friedgen’s successor, James Franklin, left to become head coach at Vanderbilt. In a matter of a week, Maryland went from having the coach of the year and his successor, to having no coach at all -- intentionally.
Imagine how North Carolina’s players feel. First Butch Davis was fired, and then they had to prepare for and play in a bowl game knowing interim coach Everett Withers was leaving for Ohio State.
Our “coaches we love to hate” theme continues today with coaches who have left teams in a lurch -- at unexpected or awkward times. It might have been for another job, because of a scandal, or a disagreement with the administration. Whatever the reason, they’re no longer coaching in the ACC.
Here are three of the more memorable departures in recent years in the ACC, and you'll notice a trend here: They're all in the Atlantic Division:
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Mary Ann ChastainFailing to meet lofty expectations cost Tommy Bowden his job at Clemson in 2008.
AP Photo/Mary Ann ChastainFailing to meet lofty expectations cost Tommy Bowden his job at Clemson in 2008.2. Former Boston College coach Jeff Jagodzinski:This story was about defiance. Athletic director Gene DeFilippo had specifically told Jagodzinski he could not interview with the Jets. He would be fired if he did. Jagodzinski did it anyway. And he was fired in January 2009. “I did everything in the spirit of the contract,” Jagodzinski told ESPN that year. DeFilippo said Jagodzinski was fired “without cause.” Jagodzinski lasted only two years at BC, and he had three years remaining on his contract. He was a smug coach, but he was also successful. In just two seasons, Jagodzinski led the Eagles to back-to-back ACC title games, losing both to Virginia Tech. They were 11-3 his first season, and ranked as high as No. 2 nationally. (Yes, we’re still talking about Boston College). It was Jagodzinski’s first head-coaching job. A year later, Jagodzinski was fired by Tampa Bay. The following year he was fired by the UFL’s Omaha Nighthawks. Interviewing with the Jets was one costly decision.
3. Former Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen (and his coach-in-waiting): This one is still puzzling. The ACC’s 2010 Coach of the Year was fired and replaced by the Big East Coach of the Year. The ACC’s 2010 Rookie of the Year was benched in favor of an inexperienced backup. Under that game plan, a nine-win bowl season deteriorated to a two-win disaster.
Huh?
“It didn’t need to end this way,” Friedgen told Mike Wise of the Washington Post.
Ironically, it didn’t end after his 2-10 season in 2009. Instead, Friedgen was given the opportunity to pull the program together, and he managed to do that with a respectable eight-win regular season and a win in the Military Bowl, Friedgen’s final game as head coach.
Athletic director Kevin Anderson, who at the time was new to the job, originally told Friedgen he would return for 2011. Anderson had issued a written statement saying that Friedgen would be allowed to coach the final year of his contract.
Friedgen called for an extension, and Anderson called an audible and gave Friedgen his buyout notice. Meanwhile, Friedgen’s successor, James Franklin, left to become head coach at Vanderbilt. In a matter of a week, Maryland went from having the coach of the year and his successor, to having no coach at all -- intentionally.
WEEK 4
Welcome back to the ACC’s ultimate road trip. In case you’re just joining us, this series is your ticket to each of the best games in the ACC every week. These are the games that – if you had the money and the time – you would want to be at this fall. The season is still a long ways off, but here in the blogosphere, we’re already into Week 4:
Saturday, September 22
Why: Without question this will be the game of the week and one of the most important matchups in the Atlantic Division race. It will feature two programs with top 10 recruiting classes and two experienced quarterbacks in Tajh Boyd and EJ Manuel. Both programs have questions to answer on the offensive line. Miami at Georgia Tech will be an important game for the Coastal Division race, but expectations aren’t nearly as high for those two programs as they are for Clemson and Florida State right now. This will be the first ACC game of the season for Clemson, but a win over Auburn in the season opener and the Tigers could be rolling into Tally with a 3-0 record. With a win over Wake Forest, Florida State should also be 3-0 after beating up on creampuffs Murray State and Savannah State. Both Clemson and Florida State are bringing in the kind of talent that could contend for a national title, but they’re also in each other’s way. Who will get stepped on first?
More in this series:
Welcome back to the ACC’s ultimate road trip. In case you’re just joining us, this series is your ticket to each of the best games in the ACC every week. These are the games that – if you had the money and the time – you would want to be at this fall. The season is still a long ways off, but here in the blogosphere, we’re already into Week 4:
Saturday, September 22
- Memphis at Duke
- Clemson at Florida State
- Miami at Georgia Tech
- Maryland at West Virginia
- East Carolina at North Carolina
- The Citadel at NC State
- Virginia at TCU
- Bowling Green at Virginia Tech
- Army at Wake Forest
Why: Without question this will be the game of the week and one of the most important matchups in the Atlantic Division race. It will feature two programs with top 10 recruiting classes and two experienced quarterbacks in Tajh Boyd and EJ Manuel. Both programs have questions to answer on the offensive line. Miami at Georgia Tech will be an important game for the Coastal Division race, but expectations aren’t nearly as high for those two programs as they are for Clemson and Florida State right now. This will be the first ACC game of the season for Clemson, but a win over Auburn in the season opener and the Tigers could be rolling into Tally with a 3-0 record. With a win over Wake Forest, Florida State should also be 3-0 after beating up on creampuffs Murray State and Savannah State. Both Clemson and Florida State are bringing in the kind of talent that could contend for a national title, but they’re also in each other’s way. Who will get stepped on first?
More in this series:
Heather Dinich talks about the tackling of the linebackers as the one good thing in Death Valley.
Chat!
- Georgia Tech WR Micheal Summers was set on the Jackets from the start.
- Miami running back Mike James has earned his way to the top of the depth chart.
- ESPN Insider Travis Haney took at look at Clemson's BCS chances.
- Miami has made drastic improvements in the weight room this offseason.
- At least two athletic directors in the ACC don't sense any real change in the league anytime soon.
- This just in: ACC football is relevant, and it's paying off.
- Clemson coach Dabo Swinney saw red flags during Mike Bellamy's recruiting process.
Out with the old, in with the new. The ACC has lost a lot of talent from 2011, including arguably the best player in the conference in former Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly. There are still a lot of names for fans to be excited about, though, as we get closer to summer camp. Which players in the conference will emerge as the best? Well, based on past performances and their bubbling potential, here’s the first guess. As part of “College Football Live’s” 100 Days Till Kickoff countdown, here’s a look at the top 10 players in the ACC:
1. Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson: He broke all of the ACC’s single-season pass receiving records, finishing the 2011 season with 82 catches for 1,219 yards and 12 touchdowns. He was one of the most exciting, explosive players in the country as a true freshman. Watkins averaged 25 yards on 33 kickoff returns, including an 89-yard touchdown against Maryland.
2. David Amerson, CB, NC State: He led the FBS with 13 interceptions -- six more than any other player. It was the most in the FBS since 1968 and tied as the second-best total in FBS history. He broke the ACC’s single-season interception record in the upset of No. 7-ranked Clemson. He also broke the school’s 73-year-old single-season interception record of nine.
3. Giovani Bernard, RB, UNC: He was the leading freshman rusher in the nation. His total of 1,253 rushing yards was the third best by a freshman in ACC history. He also had 13 touchdowns on 239 carries, and was third in the ACC with 96.4 rushing yards per game. He had 45 catches for 362 yards and a touchdown.
4. Logan Thomas, QB, Virginia Tech: Thomas set a school record for rushing touchdowns in a season by a quarterback with 11, and he broke the school's single-season total offense record set by Tyrod Taylor in 2010. His 234 completions, 391 attempts and 3,013 yards passing all rank second in school history for a single season.
5. Tajh Boyd, QB, Clemson: He completed 298 of 499 pass attempts for 3,828 yards, 33 touchdowns and 12 interceptions over 14 starts. He completed 59.7 percent of his passes and had a 141.2 pass efficiency rating. He also had 218 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns. He had 4,046 total yards and was responsible for a school-record 38 touchdowns.
6. Kyle Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech: Fuller played at nickel back/whip linebacker and corner. He had an interception in the Sugar Bowl against Michigan, and eight tackles against Clemson in the ACC title game. He finished 2011 with 14.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. He also had two interceptions, nine passes defended, five quarterback hurries, one fumble recovery and one forced fumble.
7. Joe Vellano, DT, Maryland: Vellano led the FBS in tackles by a defensive lineman with 7.8 per game. He finished third on the team with 94 tackles, had 7.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, four pass breakups, two fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles. His jaw-dropping 20 tackles against Georgia Tech was unforgettable.
8. Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State: He was second in the ACC with eight sacks for a loss of 62 yards, and had 12 tackles for a loss of 79 yards. He finished with 41 tackles, one pass breakup and five quarterback hurries. He was the team defensive MVP of the nation’s No. 4-ranked defense, and he was still disruptive despite facing double teams throughout the entire season.
9. Bruce Taylor, LB, Virginia Tech: He only played in eight games in 2011 before a season-ending injury, but Taylor still had 53 tackles, seven TFLs and five sacks. He led Tech in tackles in 2010 with 91 and in TFLs (15.5) and was second in quarterback sacks (6.0). He also had four pass breakups and eight quarterback hurries.
10. Rashad Greene, WR, Florida State: Despite missing four games with injuries, Greene led FSU in receiving with 38 catches, 596 receiving yards, and seven touchdown catches as a true freshman. He averaged 15.7 yards a catch and 14.7 yards on three runs from scrimmage.
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Douglas Jones/US PresswireSophomore Sammy Watkins already owns all of the conference's single-season receiving records.
Douglas Jones/US PresswireSophomore Sammy Watkins already owns all of the conference's single-season receiving records.2. David Amerson, CB, NC State: He led the FBS with 13 interceptions -- six more than any other player. It was the most in the FBS since 1968 and tied as the second-best total in FBS history. He broke the ACC’s single-season interception record in the upset of No. 7-ranked Clemson. He also broke the school’s 73-year-old single-season interception record of nine.
3. Giovani Bernard, RB, UNC: He was the leading freshman rusher in the nation. His total of 1,253 rushing yards was the third best by a freshman in ACC history. He also had 13 touchdowns on 239 carries, and was third in the ACC with 96.4 rushing yards per game. He had 45 catches for 362 yards and a touchdown.
4. Logan Thomas, QB, Virginia Tech: Thomas set a school record for rushing touchdowns in a season by a quarterback with 11, and he broke the school's single-season total offense record set by Tyrod Taylor in 2010. His 234 completions, 391 attempts and 3,013 yards passing all rank second in school history for a single season.
5. Tajh Boyd, QB, Clemson: He completed 298 of 499 pass attempts for 3,828 yards, 33 touchdowns and 12 interceptions over 14 starts. He completed 59.7 percent of his passes and had a 141.2 pass efficiency rating. He also had 218 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns. He had 4,046 total yards and was responsible for a school-record 38 touchdowns.
6. Kyle Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech: Fuller played at nickel back/whip linebacker and corner. He had an interception in the Sugar Bowl against Michigan, and eight tackles against Clemson in the ACC title game. He finished 2011 with 14.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. He also had two interceptions, nine passes defended, five quarterback hurries, one fumble recovery and one forced fumble.
7. Joe Vellano, DT, Maryland: Vellano led the FBS in tackles by a defensive lineman with 7.8 per game. He finished third on the team with 94 tackles, had 7.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, four pass breakups, two fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles. His jaw-dropping 20 tackles against Georgia Tech was unforgettable.
8. Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State: He was second in the ACC with eight sacks for a loss of 62 yards, and had 12 tackles for a loss of 79 yards. He finished with 41 tackles, one pass breakup and five quarterback hurries. He was the team defensive MVP of the nation’s No. 4-ranked defense, and he was still disruptive despite facing double teams throughout the entire season.
9. Bruce Taylor, LB, Virginia Tech: He only played in eight games in 2011 before a season-ending injury, but Taylor still had 53 tackles, seven TFLs and five sacks. He led Tech in tackles in 2010 with 91 and in TFLs (15.5) and was second in quarterback sacks (6.0). He also had four pass breakups and eight quarterback hurries.
10. Rashad Greene, WR, Florida State: Despite missing four games with injuries, Greene led FSU in receiving with 38 catches, 596 receiving yards, and seven touchdown catches as a true freshman. He averaged 15.7 yards a catch and 14.7 yards on three runs from scrimmage.
Our series taking a look at the most important game on the schedule this year for each ACC school continues today with Florida State. For those of you just tuning in, this is a look at which games will reveal the most or have the biggest impact on the 2012 race.
Florida State
Most important game: Nov. 8 at Virginia Tech
Why it’s important: No, it’s not a division game, but it could be a must-win league game on a Thursday night in November in Lane Stadium. You could argue the Sept. 22 game against Clemson will be the most important -- and there's no question it should help determine the Atlantic Division winner. But the Noles will have home-field advantage that weekend and be motivated by last year's loss to the Tigers. Games in November tend to matter more.
Winning at Virginia Tech is daunting enough, but add title-game implications to the mix and it quickly becomes must-see TV. It could also be a sneak preview of this year’s ACC championship game in Charlotte, the site of the last meeting between the programs.
Florida State has the advantage of a bye week heading into the matchup, while the Hokies will be coming home from a road trip to Miami and playing back-to-back Thursday night games. Virginia Tech has owned the ACC since it joined the league. Florida State hasn’t won the crown since 2005. This year, the Hokies are literally in the way of Florida State’s attempt at a comeback. If this season is going to be any different for the Noles, Florida State can’t afford to come up short in this game.
Florida State
Most important game: Nov. 8 at Virginia Tech
Why it’s important: No, it’s not a division game, but it could be a must-win league game on a Thursday night in November in Lane Stadium. You could argue the Sept. 22 game against Clemson will be the most important -- and there's no question it should help determine the Atlantic Division winner. But the Noles will have home-field advantage that weekend and be motivated by last year's loss to the Tigers. Games in November tend to matter more.
Winning at Virginia Tech is daunting enough, but add title-game implications to the mix and it quickly becomes must-see TV. It could also be a sneak preview of this year’s ACC championship game in Charlotte, the site of the last meeting between the programs.
Florida State has the advantage of a bye week heading into the matchup, while the Hokies will be coming home from a road trip to Miami and playing back-to-back Thursday night games. Virginia Tech has owned the ACC since it joined the league. Florida State hasn’t won the crown since 2005. This year, the Hokies are literally in the way of Florida State’s attempt at a comeback. If this season is going to be any different for the Noles, Florida State can’t afford to come up short in this game.
Florida State. Big 12. SEC. Rumors. Sigh ...
- On second thought, maybe this is a good time to jump ship ...
- What kind of a ripple effect will the new SEC-Big 12 bowl have?
- The ACC could lose its spot at the playoff table.
- That means FSU, Virginia Tech, Clemson and Miami should start looking out for themselves.
- Is luring Notre Dame to the league the answer?
- In other news, Virginia Tech kicker Cody Journell could have his suspension lifted.
- Heart problems haven't deterred NC State tight end Asa Watson.
- Miami's quarterback situation just got even more interesting.
- Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson doesn't see much merit in Twitter.
My colleague Mark Schlabach has released his post-spring top 25, and the ACC has fared well:
7. Florida State
16. Clemson
23. Virginia Tech
25. Georgia Tech
I've got the first three in the same order in my post-spring conference power ranking, but I've apparently got more faith in NC State than Schlabach (and probably a lot of other people). Call it instinct. Call it a gut feeling. Call it Mike Glennon's ability to throw the ball, but I think the Wolfpack have the potential for a special season this year -- more so than Georgia Tech.
I do believe the Yellow Jackets can win the Coastal Division this season, but I'm still not sold on Al Groh's defense or on Tevin Washington as a difference-maker at quarterback. Washington is good -- he has proven he can run the offense. But can he PASS the offense? Especially without two of the top receivers from a year ago? Georgia Tech still seems to be lacking the player who can dazzle us like Jonathan Dwyer and Joshua Nesbitt did in years' past. And up front, there are questions on defense.
NC State, on the other hand, has a drop-back passer who is ready to show the rest of college football that he can hit his receivers just about anywhere on the field, and he's got an experienced offensive line to work with. This program seems ready to turn the corner under coach Tom O'Brien, and if there is a fourth ACC team worthy of a preseason top 25 nod, NC State would get my vote.
7. Florida State
16. Clemson
23. Virginia Tech
25. Georgia Tech
I've got the first three in the same order in my post-spring conference power ranking, but I've apparently got more faith in NC State than Schlabach (and probably a lot of other people). Call it instinct. Call it a gut feeling. Call it Mike Glennon's ability to throw the ball, but I think the Wolfpack have the potential for a special season this year -- more so than Georgia Tech.
I do believe the Yellow Jackets can win the Coastal Division this season, but I'm still not sold on Al Groh's defense or on Tevin Washington as a difference-maker at quarterback. Washington is good -- he has proven he can run the offense. But can he PASS the offense? Especially without two of the top receivers from a year ago? Georgia Tech still seems to be lacking the player who can dazzle us like Jonathan Dwyer and Joshua Nesbitt did in years' past. And up front, there are questions on defense.
NC State, on the other hand, has a drop-back passer who is ready to show the rest of college football that he can hit his receivers just about anywhere on the field, and he's got an experienced offensive line to work with. This program seems ready to turn the corner under coach Tom O'Brien, and if there is a fourth ACC team worthy of a preseason top 25 nod, NC State would get my vote.
It feels like forever since I've done one of these. Wait, it has been ...
Nathan in Kingsport, Tenn., (Currently in Panama City, Fla.) writes: Welcome back HD!! I wanted to ask your opinion on the future schedule of Virginia Tech. They have received flack in recent years for taking a break from playing tough OOC opponents and playing a "cupcake" OOC schedule. However looking beyond this season, the Hokies will play Alabama in '13, Urban Meyer led Ohio State in '14 and '15 and Wisconsin in '16 and '17. How does that stack up against the rest of the conference and do you think this will end up hurting or helping the Hokies and the ACC? Thanks!
HD: Good to be back, thanks. I can't say how it stacks up against the rest of the conference, Nathan, because those nonconference schedules change so often (See: West Virginia vs. FSU). I think it will only help the Hokies and the ACC, though. I realize Virginia Tech hasn't exactly made the most out of its big games, but I think a close loss to Michigan is more respectable than beating up on the likes of Arkansas State. The perception of the ACC will never change unless its schools continue to line up those games.
Paul in New Jersey writes: HD The ACC is becoming the BE which means it will be centered on the basketball programs, not football. Your take?
HD: I think that's bunk. Say what you will, but Florida State and Miami are still football schools. So is Clemson. And Georgia Tech. And Virginia Tech. I say ACC fans should stop complaining about the perception that it's a hoops conference and embrace it. You guys have great basketball. Brag about it. Meanwhile, it's up to the football teams to do their part and win. Speaking of the ACC's image problem ...
Muhammad Ashraf in Charlotte, N.C., writes: You know, I get that FSU hasn't won big in a decade - but I vehemently disagree with people like Mike Bianchi when he says FSU only has itself to blame for the ACC's "image problem".Yea, the only program that's won a national title for the conference right? The only program that plays in a bowl EVERY year, and wins them 80% of the time. I concede that VT has been the best ACC team since 2005, but the Hokies and Clemson are the biggest reasons for the ACC's "image problem". They beat up on teams in conference and then get embarrassed EVERY TIME they play a quality non-conference opponent.
HD: OK, but, um, at least Virginia Tech and Clemson have put themselves in position to get embarrassed?
Jason in Piedmont, SC, writes: Welcome back HD!!! With Mike Bellamy out of the picture now, do you think there are any changes in the team expectations for Clemson in the coming season? I know he's crazy fast and he made a couple of game breaking plays last year, but there are a lot of people on the Tigers' depth chart with RB by their name. Who do you think benefits the most?
HD: I think the knee-jerk reaction would be to lower expectations because of what happened to Sammy Watkins AND the news about Bellamy, but the reality of the situation is that Bellamy caused more headaches than he racked up yardage. I'm told he's a good kid, but he didn't do what he had to in order to be a great running back at Clemson. You can't miss what you didn't have, right? I think there is enough other talent at the position that the Tigers will be fine. They should be more concerned about who is doing the blocking for them.
Nathan in Kingsport, Tenn., (Currently in Panama City, Fla.) writes: Welcome back HD!! I wanted to ask your opinion on the future schedule of Virginia Tech. They have received flack in recent years for taking a break from playing tough OOC opponents and playing a "cupcake" OOC schedule. However looking beyond this season, the Hokies will play Alabama in '13, Urban Meyer led Ohio State in '14 and '15 and Wisconsin in '16 and '17. How does that stack up against the rest of the conference and do you think this will end up hurting or helping the Hokies and the ACC? Thanks!
HD: Good to be back, thanks. I can't say how it stacks up against the rest of the conference, Nathan, because those nonconference schedules change so often (See: West Virginia vs. FSU). I think it will only help the Hokies and the ACC, though. I realize Virginia Tech hasn't exactly made the most out of its big games, but I think a close loss to Michigan is more respectable than beating up on the likes of Arkansas State. The perception of the ACC will never change unless its schools continue to line up those games.
Paul in New Jersey writes: HD The ACC is becoming the BE which means it will be centered on the basketball programs, not football. Your take?
HD: I think that's bunk. Say what you will, but Florida State and Miami are still football schools. So is Clemson. And Georgia Tech. And Virginia Tech. I say ACC fans should stop complaining about the perception that it's a hoops conference and embrace it. You guys have great basketball. Brag about it. Meanwhile, it's up to the football teams to do their part and win. Speaking of the ACC's image problem ...
Muhammad Ashraf in Charlotte, N.C., writes: You know, I get that FSU hasn't won big in a decade - but I vehemently disagree with people like Mike Bianchi when he says FSU only has itself to blame for the ACC's "image problem".Yea, the only program that's won a national title for the conference right? The only program that plays in a bowl EVERY year, and wins them 80% of the time. I concede that VT has been the best ACC team since 2005, but the Hokies and Clemson are the biggest reasons for the ACC's "image problem". They beat up on teams in conference and then get embarrassed EVERY TIME they play a quality non-conference opponent.
HD: OK, but, um, at least Virginia Tech and Clemson have put themselves in position to get embarrassed?
Jason in Piedmont, SC, writes: Welcome back HD!!! With Mike Bellamy out of the picture now, do you think there are any changes in the team expectations for Clemson in the coming season? I know he's crazy fast and he made a couple of game breaking plays last year, but there are a lot of people on the Tigers' depth chart with RB by their name. Who do you think benefits the most?
HD: I think the knee-jerk reaction would be to lower expectations because of what happened to Sammy Watkins AND the news about Bellamy, but the reality of the situation is that Bellamy caused more headaches than he racked up yardage. I'm told he's a good kid, but he didn't do what he had to in order to be a great running back at Clemson. You can't miss what you didn't have, right? I think there is enough other talent at the position that the Tigers will be fine. They should be more concerned about who is doing the blocking for them.
Our series taking a look at the most important game on the schedule this year for each ACC school continues today with Duke. For those of you just tuning in, this is a look at which games will reveal the most or have the biggest impact on the 2012 race.
Duke
Most important game: Sept. 29 at Wake Forest
Why it’s important: If Duke is going to go bowling, it HAS to be able to win the winnable games, and this is definitely one of them. This has been one of the most entertaining series in the ACC. Since 2005, when Duke lost 44-6 to Wake Forest, the Blue Devils have lost five of six games in this series by a combined 16 points. Three of those games (2011, 24-23; 2008, 33-30 OT; 2006, 14-13), have been by a field goal or less. In the fifth season under coach David Cutcliffe, Duke should be able to go 3-1 in the nonconference schedule with wins over FIU, NC Central and Memphis. The key this year should be more conference wins, and it’s going to have to start on the road at Wake Forest.
More in this series:
Duke
Most important game: Sept. 29 at Wake Forest
Why it’s important: If Duke is going to go bowling, it HAS to be able to win the winnable games, and this is definitely one of them. This has been one of the most entertaining series in the ACC. Since 2005, when Duke lost 44-6 to Wake Forest, the Blue Devils have lost five of six games in this series by a combined 16 points. Three of those games (2011, 24-23; 2008, 33-30 OT; 2006, 14-13), have been by a field goal or less. In the fifth season under coach David Cutcliffe, Duke should be able to go 3-1 in the nonconference schedule with wins over FIU, NC Central and Memphis. The key this year should be more conference wins, and it’s going to have to start on the road at Wake Forest.
More in this series:
- Boston College
- Clemson
Now that spring practices are over, it’s time to re-evaluate the ACC pecking order for 2012. There wasn’t much change at the top from the pre-spring power rankings, but Georgia Tech did get a slight bump, along with two teams on Tobacco Road. Here’s a look at the latest ACC power rankings:
1. Florida State: The Noles’ defensive line should be one of the deepest and best in the conference, if not the country, and they’ve got an outstanding quarterback in EJ Manuel. If the young offensive line can mature quickly and the running game improves from 2011, there’s no reason the Seminoles shouldn’t be contending for the ACC title.
2. Clemson: The Tigers could open the season without star receiver Sammy Watkins, who is awaiting his punishment after he was arrested on misdemeanor drug charges, but as long as he’s in the lineup and the offensive line is playing well, Clemson has enough talent to defend its 2011 ACC title.
3. Virginia Tech: It’s hard to forget how the Hokies fared against Clemson in two meetings last season, but they enter this season with the better defense. The question is how quickly the revamped offensive line can come together, and who will emerge as the next star running back.
4. NC State: This team is quietly preparing a championship-caliber roster. Quarterback Mike Glennon is still under the radar, and he’s got an experienced offensive line to work with. This is a team that could surprise some people.
5. Georgia Tech: The Jackets had a promising spring, but the defensive line has to replace two of three starters, and last season’s atrocious special teams still have a lot to prove. One thing is for sure: These guys will be able to run the ball on just about anyone.
6. Wake Forest: Much like the rest of its division, Wake Forest’s success will hinge in part on how quickly the new starters on the offensive line come together. The Demon Deacons have an experienced and much-improved quarterback in Tanner Price, and last year they made a statement that they’re not to be overlooked in the ACC race.
7. North Carolina: The two biggest questions for the Tar Heels are how quickly they can adapt to and execute a new system under first-year coach Larry Fedora, and where they will find their motivation now that the NCAA has banned them from the postseason. This spring revealed a positive outlook for the new offense, which should give quarterback Bryn Renner a chance to shine.
8. Virginia: The ACC’s 2011 Coach of the Year has quickly raised expectations, but they should be tempered because seven starters have to be replaced on defense. Michael Rocco is the undisputed starting quarterback -- unless Alabama transfer Phillip Sims has something to say about it.
9. Miami: With Stephen Morris out this spring with a back injury, quarterback transfer Ryan Williams had a chance to impress the coaches. The position is one of many questions still looming for the Canes, a young team still waiting for closure from an NCAA investigation.
10. Maryland: The Terps had a good spring and were able to move forward with players who wanted to be there. It was a positive vibe, but coach Randy Edsall is still tangled in the shadow of last year’s two-win season. He’ll have to improve upon it without the services of former quarterback Danny O’Brien.
11. Boston College: Several offseason staff changes were embraced this spring, and quarterback Chase Rettig made strides under yet another offensive coordinator, Doug Martin. The Eagles have to find a way to win without two of their most valuable players in running back Montel Harris, who was dismissed from the team, and linebacker Luke Kuechly, who left early for the NFL.
12. Duke: The Blue Devils had a good spring and are still buying into the philosophies of coach David Cutcliffe. They’ve been on the verge of making the postseason before, but fans are looking for them to finally break through in Year 5 under Cutcliffe. Quarterback Sean Renfree can get them there if they minimize the turnovers and play better defense.
1. Florida State: The Noles’ defensive line should be one of the deepest and best in the conference, if not the country, and they’ve got an outstanding quarterback in EJ Manuel. If the young offensive line can mature quickly and the running game improves from 2011, there’s no reason the Seminoles shouldn’t be contending for the ACC title.
2. Clemson: The Tigers could open the season without star receiver Sammy Watkins, who is awaiting his punishment after he was arrested on misdemeanor drug charges, but as long as he’s in the lineup and the offensive line is playing well, Clemson has enough talent to defend its 2011 ACC title.
3. Virginia Tech: It’s hard to forget how the Hokies fared against Clemson in two meetings last season, but they enter this season with the better defense. The question is how quickly the revamped offensive line can come together, and who will emerge as the next star running back.
4. NC State: This team is quietly preparing a championship-caliber roster. Quarterback Mike Glennon is still under the radar, and he’s got an experienced offensive line to work with. This is a team that could surprise some people.
5. Georgia Tech: The Jackets had a promising spring, but the defensive line has to replace two of three starters, and last season’s atrocious special teams still have a lot to prove. One thing is for sure: These guys will be able to run the ball on just about anyone.
6. Wake Forest: Much like the rest of its division, Wake Forest’s success will hinge in part on how quickly the new starters on the offensive line come together. The Demon Deacons have an experienced and much-improved quarterback in Tanner Price, and last year they made a statement that they’re not to be overlooked in the ACC race.
7. North Carolina: The two biggest questions for the Tar Heels are how quickly they can adapt to and execute a new system under first-year coach Larry Fedora, and where they will find their motivation now that the NCAA has banned them from the postseason. This spring revealed a positive outlook for the new offense, which should give quarterback Bryn Renner a chance to shine.
8. Virginia: The ACC’s 2011 Coach of the Year has quickly raised expectations, but they should be tempered because seven starters have to be replaced on defense. Michael Rocco is the undisputed starting quarterback -- unless Alabama transfer Phillip Sims has something to say about it.
9. Miami: With Stephen Morris out this spring with a back injury, quarterback transfer Ryan Williams had a chance to impress the coaches. The position is one of many questions still looming for the Canes, a young team still waiting for closure from an NCAA investigation.
10. Maryland: The Terps had a good spring and were able to move forward with players who wanted to be there. It was a positive vibe, but coach Randy Edsall is still tangled in the shadow of last year’s two-win season. He’ll have to improve upon it without the services of former quarterback Danny O’Brien.
11. Boston College: Several offseason staff changes were embraced this spring, and quarterback Chase Rettig made strides under yet another offensive coordinator, Doug Martin. The Eagles have to find a way to win without two of their most valuable players in running back Montel Harris, who was dismissed from the team, and linebacker Luke Kuechly, who left early for the NFL.
12. Duke: The Blue Devils had a good spring and are still buying into the philosophies of coach David Cutcliffe. They’ve been on the verge of making the postseason before, but fans are looking for them to finally break through in Year 5 under Cutcliffe. Quarterback Sean Renfree can get them there if they minimize the turnovers and play better defense.
Our series taking a look at the most important game on the schedules this year for each ACC school continues today with Clemson. For those of you just tuning in, this is a look at which games will reveal the most or have the biggest impact on the 2012 race.
Clemson
Most important game: Sept. 22 at Florida State
Why it’s important: Both teams have legitimate chances to win the Atlantic Division title, and this game should produce the frontrunner. It’s the first league game of the season for Clemson, and the first of back-to-back road trips against division opponents. It will feature two of the ACC’s top quarterbacks in EJ Manuel and Tajh Boyd, but the key will be how Clemson’s offensive line handles Florida State’s defensive line.
On paper it’s a matchup the Noles should win up front, as Clemson has to replace three starters. In the bigger picture, both Clemson and Florida State have set the standard in ACC recruiting, and this game will help determine which program is making better use of that talent. If Clemson is going to defend its 2011 title, this is a game the Tigers can’t afford to lose.
More in this series:
Clemson
Most important game: Sept. 22 at Florida State
Why it’s important: Both teams have legitimate chances to win the Atlantic Division title, and this game should produce the frontrunner. It’s the first league game of the season for Clemson, and the first of back-to-back road trips against division opponents. It will feature two of the ACC’s top quarterbacks in EJ Manuel and Tajh Boyd, but the key will be how Clemson’s offensive line handles Florida State’s defensive line.
On paper it’s a matchup the Noles should win up front, as Clemson has to replace three starters. In the bigger picture, both Clemson and Florida State have set the standard in ACC recruiting, and this game will help determine which program is making better use of that talent. If Clemson is going to defend its 2011 title, this is a game the Tigers can’t afford to lose.
More in this series:
The ACC has announced game times and TV networks for all home games for the league in its first three weeks of the season, as well as for all of its 2012 Thursday night games on ESPN and all of national television games confirmed to date.
The 2012 Dr Pepper ACC Football Championship Game, which will be played Dec. 1 in Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C., will be nationally televised by either ABC, with an 8 p.m. kickoff, or ESPN at 7:45 p.m.
This year's Chick-fil-A Kickoff will feature both NC State and Clemson. NC State faces Tennessee on Friday, Aug.31, in a 7:30 p.m. game which will be nationally televised by ESPNU. Clemson will play Auburn on Saturday, Sept. 1, in a 7 p.m. contest that will be nationally televised by ESPN.
The ACC's full schedule for the first three weeks is as follows:
The 2012 Dr Pepper ACC Football Championship Game, which will be played Dec. 1 in Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C., will be nationally televised by either ABC, with an 8 p.m. kickoff, or ESPN at 7:45 p.m.
This year's Chick-fil-A Kickoff will feature both NC State and Clemson. NC State faces Tennessee on Friday, Aug.31, in a 7:30 p.m. game which will be nationally televised by ESPNU. Clemson will play Auburn on Saturday, Sept. 1, in a 7 p.m. contest that will be nationally televised by ESPN.
The ACC's full schedule for the first three weeks is as follows:
Heard any news about FSU? Me either ...
- ACC commissioner John Swofford isn't worried about something that hasn't happened yet, and might not happen.
- He remains confident in the current and soon-to-be-expanding structure of the league.
- The topic of Florida State and the Big 12 was not a formal discussion at the ACC spring meetings.
- This recruit picked Georgia Tech over FSU strictly because of the academics.
- Georgia Tech's beat writer answers some important questions about the Yellow Jackets.
- The ACC coaches believe conference champs should matter when it comes to a playoff format.
- Concussions ended the NFL career of a former Clemson fullback.
- NC State quarterback Mike Glennon is ready for the Pack to have a big year.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Heather Dinich
Dinich covered ACC and Big Ten football for five seasons before joining ESPN.com in November 2007. She's an Indiana grad but somehow her favorite day of the week is Saturday.
