Earlier today, you had a chance to vote for which team from the ACC would be the first to represent the conference in the sport's first playoff game. At last glance, Virginia Tech was leading the way. While that's understandable, I have to admit I was a bit surprised not to see Florida State or Clemson as the top vote-getter. With how well those schools have been recruiting -- and how large those fan bases are -- I thought one of the two would push past the Hokies.

I wonder, though, how many votes Georgia Tech would have gotten.

Only five options are allowed for the polls, and the Yellow Jackets just missed the cut. What does UNC have that Georgia Tech doesn't? A passing game.

Let me be clear on something: I don't think Georgia Tech needs to throw the ball more to win a national title. I just think the Jackets have to be able to throw it more efficiently when they do. And until they begin to do that with more consistency, the ACC title will be their ceiling.

Proof: Iowa 24, Georgia Tech 14.

What I remember most about that game was how disciplined Iowa's defense was against the triple option. Iowa outrushed Georgia Tech by 29 yards. The Jackets finished with 143 rushing yards -- well below their season average of 307.2. When facing defenses that good, Georgia Tech must be able to depend on its passing game -- not complete 2-of-9 for 12 yards and a pick.

Last year, Georgia Tech's passing game started with a bang and then it fizzled.

Paul Johnson can win a national title with his spread-option offense, but he needs to find a quarterback and a few receivers who can help the Jackets take it to the next level.