ACC: Allen Bailey
MIAMI
2010 overall record: 7-6
2010 conference record: 5-3
Returning starters
Offense: 6, defense: 7, punter/kicker: 0
Top returners
WR Travis Benjamin, RG Brandon Washington, C Tyler Horn, QB Jacory Harris, QB Stephen Morris, DE Olivier Vernon, DT Micanor Regis, DT Marcus Forston, LB Sean Spence, S Vaughn Telemaque, S JoJo Nicolas, RB Lamar Miller, RB Mike James
Key losses
WR Leonard Hankerson, LT Orlando Franklin, RB Damien Berry, P/PK Matt Bosher, DT Allen Bailey, LB Colin McCarthy, CB Brandon Harris
2010 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Berry (899 yards)
Passing: Harris* (1,793 yds)
Receiving: Hankerson (1,156 yds)
Tackles: McCarthy (119)
Sacks: Bailey (7)
Interceptions: Ryan Hill, Vaughn Telemaque* and Ray-Ray Armstrong* (3)
Spring answers
1. Stacked at running back. Lamar Miller finished the spring atop a depth chart deep with talent at running back, including Mike James and Storm Johnson. All three have different styles, as James is the power/slasher, Johnson gets the tough yards and is elusive in the open field, and Miller is the fastest and the home run threat.
2. The Golden era has been embraced. First-year coach Al Golden made his debut this spring with a new staff and new schemes, and all of the players have bought in. The Canes now eat breakfast together every day, and the seniors were the first to latch on to Golden, as they know time is running out to win. They seem willing to follow whoever wants to lead, and the players also started to take ownership this spring.
3. Jordan Futch has helped the linebacker depth. He was a role player for most of his career and was going to move to tight end, but, as it turns out, he can play inside or outside linebacker, and he played well enough this spring to convince Golden he deserves a spot somewhere on the field. Colin McCarthy was the only starter who had to be replaced, and there was some shuffling of positions, but Futch or Gaines emerged as the leaders to take over that spot.
Fall questions
1. And the quarterback is? Golden said the quarterback competition will likely go into mid-August, as neither Jacory Harris nor Stephen Morris separated himself. It’s one of the main storylines in the ACC, and could be the difference in Miami’s season. Both struggled in the spring game, as they threw two interceptions each, but first-year offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch is evaluating them on more than just picks.
2. Who will take over the secondary? It’s so wide open that true freshman Thomas Finnie enrolled early and worked his way onto the two deep. It’s a young, inexperienced group with big shoes to fill after the departures of Brandon Harris and Ryan Hill. Lee Chambers, Nicolas, Telemaque and Armstrong will have to rise to the occasion or leave it to the rookies like Finnie. This spring, Golden said Nicolas and Armstrong were the leaders of the secondary.
3. Baffled without Bosher. Matt Bosher, an all-conference kicker and punter during his career, did it all, and the kicking game is a major question without him. Jake Wieclaw is next in line, but he only played against Florida A&M and has yet to attempt a collegiate kick. Incoming freshmen kickers Matt Loudis and Dalton Botts will challenge Wieclaw for the starting job.
2010 overall record: 7-6
2010 conference record: 5-3
Returning starters
Offense: 6, defense: 7, punter/kicker: 0
Top returners
WR Travis Benjamin, RG Brandon Washington, C Tyler Horn, QB Jacory Harris, QB Stephen Morris, DE Olivier Vernon, DT Micanor Regis, DT Marcus Forston, LB Sean Spence, S Vaughn Telemaque, S JoJo Nicolas, RB Lamar Miller, RB Mike James
Key losses
WR Leonard Hankerson, LT Orlando Franklin, RB Damien Berry, P/PK Matt Bosher, DT Allen Bailey, LB Colin McCarthy, CB Brandon Harris
2010 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Berry (899 yards)
Passing: Harris* (1,793 yds)
Receiving: Hankerson (1,156 yds)
Tackles: McCarthy (119)
Sacks: Bailey (7)
Interceptions: Ryan Hill, Vaughn Telemaque* and Ray-Ray Armstrong* (3)
Spring answers
1. Stacked at running back. Lamar Miller finished the spring atop a depth chart deep with talent at running back, including Mike James and Storm Johnson. All three have different styles, as James is the power/slasher, Johnson gets the tough yards and is elusive in the open field, and Miller is the fastest and the home run threat.
2. The Golden era has been embraced. First-year coach Al Golden made his debut this spring with a new staff and new schemes, and all of the players have bought in. The Canes now eat breakfast together every day, and the seniors were the first to latch on to Golden, as they know time is running out to win. They seem willing to follow whoever wants to lead, and the players also started to take ownership this spring.
3. Jordan Futch has helped the linebacker depth. He was a role player for most of his career and was going to move to tight end, but, as it turns out, he can play inside or outside linebacker, and he played well enough this spring to convince Golden he deserves a spot somewhere on the field. Colin McCarthy was the only starter who had to be replaced, and there was some shuffling of positions, but Futch or Gaines emerged as the leaders to take over that spot.
Fall questions
1. And the quarterback is? Golden said the quarterback competition will likely go into mid-August, as neither Jacory Harris nor Stephen Morris separated himself. It’s one of the main storylines in the ACC, and could be the difference in Miami’s season. Both struggled in the spring game, as they threw two interceptions each, but first-year offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch is evaluating them on more than just picks.
2. Who will take over the secondary? It’s so wide open that true freshman Thomas Finnie enrolled early and worked his way onto the two deep. It’s a young, inexperienced group with big shoes to fill after the departures of Brandon Harris and Ryan Hill. Lee Chambers, Nicolas, Telemaque and Armstrong will have to rise to the occasion or leave it to the rookies like Finnie. This spring, Golden said Nicolas and Armstrong were the leaders of the secondary.
3. Baffled without Bosher. Matt Bosher, an all-conference kicker and punter during his career, did it all, and the kicking game is a major question without him. Jake Wieclaw is next in line, but he only played against Florida A&M and has yet to attempt a collegiate kick. Incoming freshmen kickers Matt Loudis and Dalton Botts will challenge Wieclaw for the starting job.
ACC Players Taken in the NFL Draft
1 12 Christian Ponder, Florida State, QB Vikings
1 14 Robert Quinn, North Carolina, DE Rams
1 22 Anthony Castonzo, Boston College, T Colts
2 33 Ras-I Dowling, Virginia, CB Patriots
2 38 Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech, RB Cardinals
2 40 Bruce Carter, North Carolina, LB Cowboys
2 41 Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson, DT Redskins
2 46 Orlando Franklin, Miami, OL Broncos
2 50 Marcus Gilchrist, Clemson, CB Chargers
2 51 Da’ Quan Bowers, Clemson, DE Buccaneers
2 52 Marvin Austin, North Carolina, DT Giants
2 55 Rodney Hudson, Florida State, C-G Chiefs
2 58 Torrey Smith, Maryland, WR Ravens
2 59 Greg Little, North Carolina, WR Browns
2 60 Brandon Harris, Miami, CB Texans
3 67 Nate Irving, NC State, LB Broncos
3 79 Leonard Hankerson, Miami, WR Redskins
3 81 DeMarcus Van Dyke, Miami, CB Raiders
3 86 Allen Bailey, Miami, DE Chiefs
4 100 Da’Norris Searcy, North Carolina, S Bills
4 109 Colin McCarthy, Miami, ILB Titans
4 122 Chris Hairston, Clemson, T Bills
4 127 Rashad Carmichael, Virginia Tech, CB Texans
4 130 Jamie Harper, Clemson, RB Titans
5 133 Johnny White, North Carolina, RB Bills
5 152 T.J. Yates, North Carolina, QB Texans
6 171 Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina, LB Cardinals
6 173 Byron Maxwell, Clemson, DB Seahawks
6 180 Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech, QB Ravens
6 181 Richard Gordon, Miami, TE Raiders
6 192 Matt Bosher, Miami, P-PK Falcons
7 218 Ryan Taylor, North Carolina, TE Cowboys
7 221 Da’Rel Scott, Maryland, RB Giants
7 224 Markus White, Florida State, DE Redskins
7 225 Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech, RB Ravens
ACC Selections by Rounds
First 3
Second 12
Third 4
Fourth 5
Fifth 2
Sixth 5
Seventh 4
ACC Selections by Teams
North Carolina 9
Miami 8
Clemson 6
Florida State 3
Virginia Tech 3
Maryland 2
Boston College 1
Georgia Tech 1
NC State 1
Virginia 1
1 12 Christian Ponder, Florida State, QB Vikings
1 14 Robert Quinn, North Carolina, DE Rams
1 22 Anthony Castonzo, Boston College, T Colts
2 33 Ras-I Dowling, Virginia, CB Patriots
2 38 Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech, RB Cardinals
2 40 Bruce Carter, North Carolina, LB Cowboys
2 41 Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson, DT Redskins
2 46 Orlando Franklin, Miami, OL Broncos
2 50 Marcus Gilchrist, Clemson, CB Chargers
2 51 Da’ Quan Bowers, Clemson, DE Buccaneers
2 52 Marvin Austin, North Carolina, DT Giants
2 55 Rodney Hudson, Florida State, C-G Chiefs
2 58 Torrey Smith, Maryland, WR Ravens
2 59 Greg Little, North Carolina, WR Browns
2 60 Brandon Harris, Miami, CB Texans
3 67 Nate Irving, NC State, LB Broncos
3 79 Leonard Hankerson, Miami, WR Redskins
3 81 DeMarcus Van Dyke, Miami, CB Raiders
3 86 Allen Bailey, Miami, DE Chiefs
4 100 Da’Norris Searcy, North Carolina, S Bills
4 109 Colin McCarthy, Miami, ILB Titans
4 122 Chris Hairston, Clemson, T Bills
4 127 Rashad Carmichael, Virginia Tech, CB Texans
4 130 Jamie Harper, Clemson, RB Titans
5 133 Johnny White, North Carolina, RB Bills
5 152 T.J. Yates, North Carolina, QB Texans
6 171 Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina, LB Cardinals
6 173 Byron Maxwell, Clemson, DB Seahawks
6 180 Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech, QB Ravens
6 181 Richard Gordon, Miami, TE Raiders
6 192 Matt Bosher, Miami, P-PK Falcons
7 218 Ryan Taylor, North Carolina, TE Cowboys
7 221 Da’Rel Scott, Maryland, RB Giants
7 224 Markus White, Florida State, DE Redskins
7 225 Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech, RB Ravens
ACC Selections by Rounds
First 3
Second 12
Third 4
Fourth 5
Fifth 2
Sixth 5
Seventh 4
ACC Selections by Teams
North Carolina 9
Miami 8
Clemson 6
Florida State 3
Virginia Tech 3
Maryland 2
Boston College 1
Georgia Tech 1
NC State 1
Virginia 1
The official list for the NFL combine has been released. A total of 48 players from the ACC have been invited to audition for the NFL from February 23 – March 1. When categorized by school, it's somewhat of a reality check to see how many of the best players in the conference are moving on, and which programs will take the biggest hit. It's impossible not to wonder how good North Carolina could have been had all of the following players remained eligible. The Tar Heels will send the most players to the combine with 11.
Here are the players who will represent the ACC:
BOSTON COLLEGE (3)
Here are the players who will represent the ACC:
BOSTON COLLEGE (3)
- Anthony Castonzo
- Rich Lapham
- Mark Herzlich
- Da'Quan Bowers
- Marcus Gilchrist
- Chris Hairston
- Jamie Harper
- Jarvis Jenkins
- Byron Maxwell
- DeAndre McDaniel
- Rodney Hudson
- Christian Ponder
- Markus White
- Anthony Allen
- Mario Butler
- Jerrard Tarrant
- Torrey Smith
- Adrian Moten
- Da'Rel Scott
- Allen Bailey
- Damien Berry
- Matt Bosher
- Orlando Franklin
- Graig Cooper
- Leonard Hankerson
- Brandon Harris
- Colin McCarthy
- DeMarcus Van Dyke
- Marvin Austin
- Kendric Burney
- Bruce Carter
- Greg Little
- Shaun Draughn
- Robert Quinn
- Da'Norris Searcy
- Quan Sturdivant
- Johnny White
- Deunta Williams
- T.J. Yates
- Nate Irving
- Owen Spencer
- Danny Aiken
- Ras-I Dowling
- Rashad Carmichael
- Darren Evans
- John Graves
- Tyrod Taylor
- Ryan Williams
Don't forget to watch the Under Armour Senior Bowl this weekend ...
- Warning to recruits: If you're in a committed relationship with Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson, don't flirt with other schools.
- NC State is coming off of one of the most successful seasons in school history, but you wouldn't know it by looking at the Pack's class.
- Former ACC linebackers Mark Herzlich and Nate Irving are still answering questions about their health.
- Virginia Tech's staff could lure in some more hidden gems in this recruiting class.
- What would it take for Florida State to be a lock for a consensus No. 1 class? Andrew Carter has the answer.
- Former Canes Allen Bailey and Leonard Hankerson are hoping their work in the Senior Bowl leads to first-round status.
- One UNC compliance official has received a promotion in part due to her work during the NCAA investigation.
- Meet Evan Mulrooney, one of the Terps' incoming offensive linemen.
- Will Clemson coach Dabo Swinney get his bonus bowl money? And if he does, will he take it?
ACC sends 18 to Under Armour Senior Bowl
January, 18, 2011
1/18/11
9:00
AM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
The ACC will have 18 players representing the conference next week in the Under Armour Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala. It's the second-highest total for a conference behind the SEC, which has 22. The game is scheduled for 4 p.m. ET on January 29th in Mobile’s Ladd-Peebles Stadium. The game and all practices will be televised by NFL Network.
“This is a very talented group and all are extremely deserving of a Senior Bowl invite,” senior bowl president and CEO Steve Hale said in a prepared statement. “We’ve always had great success with ACC players with guys like Philip Rivers and D’Brickashaw Ferguson performing extremely well during Senior Bowl week and we fully expect this year to produce more future NFL stars from the conference.”
Clemson, Miami and North Carolina lead all ACC teams with three representatives each. The players from Clemson, Boston College, North Carolina, NC State, Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech are all new additions to the roster. Miami’s Colin McCarthy and Virginia’s Ras-I Dowling are also newcomers, joining their previously announced teammates on the Senior Bowl rosters:
“This is a very talented group and all are extremely deserving of a Senior Bowl invite,” senior bowl president and CEO Steve Hale said in a prepared statement. “We’ve always had great success with ACC players with guys like Philip Rivers and D’Brickashaw Ferguson performing extremely well during Senior Bowl week and we fully expect this year to produce more future NFL stars from the conference.”
Clemson, Miami and North Carolina lead all ACC teams with three representatives each. The players from Clemson, Boston College, North Carolina, NC State, Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech are all new additions to the roster. Miami’s Colin McCarthy and Virginia’s Ras-I Dowling are also newcomers, joining their previously announced teammates on the Senior Bowl rosters:
- Boston College: Anthony Castonzo, OL; Mark Herzlich, LB
- Clemson: Marcus Gilchrist, DB; Jarvis Jenkins, DL; DeAndre McDaniel, DB
- Florida State: Rodney Hudson, OL; Christian Ponder, QB
- Georgia Tech: Anthony Allen, RB
- Miami: Allen Bailey, DL; Leonard Hankerson, WR; Colin McCarthy, LB
- North Carolina: Kendric Burney, DB; Da’Norris Searcy, DB; Quan Sturdivant, LB
- NC State: Nate Irving, LB
- Virginia: Danny Aiken, DS; Ras-I Dowling, DB
- Virginia Tech: Rashad Carmichael, DB
Bailey, Hankerson invited to Senior Bowl
January, 4, 2011
1/04/11
5:00
PM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
Former Miami Hurricanes Allen Bailey and Leonard Hankerson have been invited to participate in the 2011 Under Armour Senior Bowl.
Bailey, a defensive end from Georgia, has been a projected first-round pick throughout the 2010 season and Hankerson is rated as the top senior wide receiver by ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr.
Bailey had 31 tackles for loss and 19 sacks over four seasons at Miami. He had seven sacks and 11 tackles for loss in both his junior and senior seasons. Hankerson broke the Hurricanes' single-season records for receptions (72), receiving yards (1,156) and touchdowns (13). He currently ranks No. 5 in career receiving yards (2,160), No. 3 in touchdowns (22) and No. 5 in receptions (134).
Bailey, a defensive end from Georgia, has been a projected first-round pick throughout the 2010 season and Hankerson is rated as the top senior wide receiver by ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr.
Bailey had 31 tackles for loss and 19 sacks over four seasons at Miami. He had seven sacks and 11 tackles for loss in both his junior and senior seasons. Hankerson broke the Hurricanes' single-season records for receptions (72), receiving yards (1,156) and touchdowns (13). He currently ranks No. 5 in career receiving yards (2,160), No. 3 in touchdowns (22) and No. 5 in receptions (134).
ACSMA All-conference team announced
November, 29, 2010
11/29/10
4:32
PM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
The 2010 All-Atlantic Coast Conference football team as voted on by 61 members of the Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association was announced today. A first-team vote was worth two points and second team vote one.
FIRST TEAM
Offense
QB Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech (77)
RB Montel Harris, Boston College (122)
RB Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech (108)
WR Leonard Hankerson, Miami (118)
WR Torrey Smith, Maryland (96)
TE George Bryan, NC State (92)
OT Anthony Castonzo, Boston College (79)
OT Chris Hairston, Clemson (69)
OG Rodney Hudson, Florida State (116)
OG Brandon Washington, Miami (50)
C Sean Bedford, Georgia Tech (91)
K Chris Hazley, Virginia Tech (100)
Spc. Tony Logan, Maryland (69)
Defense
DE Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson (120)
DE Brandon Jenkins, Florida State (101)
DT Quinton Coples, North Carolina (101)
DT Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson (63)
LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College (112)
LB Nate Irving, N.C. State (105)
LB Alex Wujciak, Maryland (78)
CB Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech (112)
CB Chase Minnifield, Virginia (57)
S DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson (99)
S Kenny Tate, Maryland (78)
P Matt Bosher, Miami
SECOND TEAM
Offense
QB Russell Wilson, NC State (75)
RB Damien Berry, Miami (37)
RB Keith Payne, Virginia (30)
WR Conner Vernon, Duke (70)
WR Owen Spencer, NC State (41)
TE Dwayne Allen, Clemson (31)
OT Orlando Franklin, Miami (65)
OT Blake DeChristopher, Virginia Tech (39)
OG Jaymes Brooks, Virginia Tech (41)
OG Omoregie Uzzi, Georgia Tech (35)
OG Jonathan Cooper, North Carolina (35)
C Ryan McMahon, Florida State (47)
K Will Snyderwine, Duke (38)
Spc. David Wilson, Virginia Tech (61)
Defense
DE Allen Bailey, Miami (51)
DE Steven Friday, Virginia Tech (42)
DT John Graves, Virginia Tech (46)
DT Joe Vellano, Maryland (33)
LB Bruce Carter, North Carolina (43)
LB Bruce Taylor, Virginia Tech (41)
LB Sean Spence, Miami (37)
CB Xavier Rhodes, Florida State (49)
CB Brandon Harris, Miami (45)
S Davon Morgan, Virginia Tech (48)
S Ray-Ray Armstrong, Miami (25)
P Brian Saunders, Virginia Tech (48)
FIRST TEAM
Offense
QB Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech (77)
RB Montel Harris, Boston College (122)
RB Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech (108)
WR Leonard Hankerson, Miami (118)
WR Torrey Smith, Maryland (96)
TE George Bryan, NC State (92)
OT Anthony Castonzo, Boston College (79)
OT Chris Hairston, Clemson (69)
OG Rodney Hudson, Florida State (116)
OG Brandon Washington, Miami (50)
C Sean Bedford, Georgia Tech (91)
K Chris Hazley, Virginia Tech (100)
Spc. Tony Logan, Maryland (69)
Defense
DE Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson (120)
DE Brandon Jenkins, Florida State (101)
DT Quinton Coples, North Carolina (101)
DT Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson (63)
LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College (112)
LB Nate Irving, N.C. State (105)
LB Alex Wujciak, Maryland (78)
CB Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech (112)
CB Chase Minnifield, Virginia (57)
S DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson (99)
S Kenny Tate, Maryland (78)
P Matt Bosher, Miami
SECOND TEAM
Offense
QB Russell Wilson, NC State (75)
RB Damien Berry, Miami (37)
RB Keith Payne, Virginia (30)
WR Conner Vernon, Duke (70)
WR Owen Spencer, NC State (41)
TE Dwayne Allen, Clemson (31)
OT Orlando Franklin, Miami (65)
OT Blake DeChristopher, Virginia Tech (39)
OG Jaymes Brooks, Virginia Tech (41)
OG Omoregie Uzzi, Georgia Tech (35)
OG Jonathan Cooper, North Carolina (35)
C Ryan McMahon, Florida State (47)
K Will Snyderwine, Duke (38)
Spc. David Wilson, Virginia Tech (61)
Defense
DE Allen Bailey, Miami (51)
DE Steven Friday, Virginia Tech (42)
DT John Graves, Virginia Tech (46)
DT Joe Vellano, Maryland (33)
LB Bruce Carter, North Carolina (43)
LB Bruce Taylor, Virginia Tech (41)
LB Sean Spence, Miami (37)
CB Xavier Rhodes, Florida State (49)
CB Brandon Harris, Miami (45)
S Davon Morgan, Virginia Tech (48)
S Ray-Ray Armstrong, Miami (25)
P Brian Saunders, Virginia Tech (48)
Have I mentioned ... what a game last night!
- It was an epic win for NC State coach Tom O'Brien.
- FSU quarterback Christian Ponder: "It was my fault."
- Another running back has left the team at BC. Is there something in the water at Chestnut Hill?
- Clemson coach Dabo Swinney has some fond memories of Boston College.
- And if you're an NC State fan reading the News & Observer today, it was a double victory, as more troubles have emerged for rival UNC.
- Where will Georgia Tech go bowling?
- Are the Terps for real?
- Wake Forest running back Josh Harris caught the attention of Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen real fast. Literally.
- Miami defensive end Allen Bailey gives his own teammates fits at practices.
- The learning curve continues for Duke backup quarterback Brandon Connette.
Just a reminder this is a fluid list that will fluctuate based on the past week’s performances and overall performances to date. UNC quarterback T.J. Yates dropped off the list after two interceptions in the loss to Miami, as did Georgia Tech quarterback Joshua Nesbitt, who was shut down by Clemson. Can they get back on? Sure. Just not this week.
Here’s a look at the frontrunners for three of the top conference awards:
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Virginia Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor: He threw for 280 yards and three touchdowns in Virginia Tech’s 44-7 romp of Duke last weekend. He’s second in the ACC in total offense with 266.1 yards per game, and he is still leading the ACC in pass efficiency with a 171.1 rating.
Clemson running back Andre Ellington: He had a career-high 166 yards rushing in 20 attempts for two touchdowns, along with one scoring reception, to lead Clemson to a 27-13 win over Georgia Tech. He also had 79 yards on kickoff returns to finish with 257 all-purpose running yards, also a career best. He’s averaging 6.3 yards per carry and has 10 rushing touchdowns this season. He leads the ACC in scoring and all-purpose yards.
Miami receiver Leonard Hankerson: He extended his streak of consecutive games with a catch to 20 when he caught a 13-yard pass against UNC. Hankerson scored his eighth touchdown of the season with a 19-yard reception in the third quarter. He’s second in the ACC in receptions per game (5.43) and receiving yards per game (84.4), and has a league-high eight receiving touchdowns.
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Clemson defensive end Da’Quan Bowers: He remains the frontrunner after extending his season sack total to 10 with one against Georgia Tech. He leads the ACC and the country in sacks and tackles for loss (17.5).
FSU defensive end Brandon Jenkins: His status didn’t change during the bye week, as he had two sacks in the 24-19 win over Boston College and now has seven this season -- second in the ACC only to Bowers. He’s also third in the ACC in tackles for loss (11.5).
Miami defensive end Allen Bailey: His stock is rising after producing 4.5 sacks in the past two games, including 3.5 in the win over North Carolina. He’s being used at both end and tackle, and the success of his teammates has freed him a bit in blocking schemes. He leads the Canes’ defensive linemen with 27 tackles.
COACH OF THE YEAR
Florida State coach Jimbo Fisher: He’s off to an undefeated start in conference play in his first season as a head coach, and his lone overall loss came on the road to an Oklahoma team that was ranked No. 1 in the BCS standings last week. He’ll have a chance to further make a case on Thursday night against NC State.
Virginia Tech coach Frank Beamer: The Hokies extended their winning streak to six games with the win over Duke and remain undefeated in conference play despite their 0-2 start.
NC State coach Tom O’Brien: The loss to East Carolina didn’t affect NC State’s standings in the ACC race, and O’Brien has a chance to make a push for this title with a win over Fisher on Thursday night.
Here’s a look at the frontrunners for three of the top conference awards:
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Virginia Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor: He threw for 280 yards and three touchdowns in Virginia Tech’s 44-7 romp of Duke last weekend. He’s second in the ACC in total offense with 266.1 yards per game, and he is still leading the ACC in pass efficiency with a 171.1 rating.
Clemson running back Andre Ellington: He had a career-high 166 yards rushing in 20 attempts for two touchdowns, along with one scoring reception, to lead Clemson to a 27-13 win over Georgia Tech. He also had 79 yards on kickoff returns to finish with 257 all-purpose running yards, also a career best. He’s averaging 6.3 yards per carry and has 10 rushing touchdowns this season. He leads the ACC in scoring and all-purpose yards.
Miami receiver Leonard Hankerson: He extended his streak of consecutive games with a catch to 20 when he caught a 13-yard pass against UNC. Hankerson scored his eighth touchdown of the season with a 19-yard reception in the third quarter. He’s second in the ACC in receptions per game (5.43) and receiving yards per game (84.4), and has a league-high eight receiving touchdowns.
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Clemson defensive end Da’Quan Bowers: He remains the frontrunner after extending his season sack total to 10 with one against Georgia Tech. He leads the ACC and the country in sacks and tackles for loss (17.5).
FSU defensive end Brandon Jenkins: His status didn’t change during the bye week, as he had two sacks in the 24-19 win over Boston College and now has seven this season -- second in the ACC only to Bowers. He’s also third in the ACC in tackles for loss (11.5).
Miami defensive end Allen Bailey: His stock is rising after producing 4.5 sacks in the past two games, including 3.5 in the win over North Carolina. He’s being used at both end and tackle, and the success of his teammates has freed him a bit in blocking schemes. He leads the Canes’ defensive linemen with 27 tackles.
COACH OF THE YEAR
Florida State coach Jimbo Fisher: He’s off to an undefeated start in conference play in his first season as a head coach, and his lone overall loss came on the road to an Oklahoma team that was ranked No. 1 in the BCS standings last week. He’ll have a chance to further make a case on Thursday night against NC State.
Virginia Tech coach Frank Beamer: The Hokies extended their winning streak to six games with the win over Duke and remain undefeated in conference play despite their 0-2 start.
NC State coach Tom O’Brien: The loss to East Carolina didn’t affect NC State’s standings in the ACC race, and O’Brien has a chance to make a push for this title with a win over Fisher on Thursday night.
Step into my office:
Matt in Blacksburg writes: If my Hokies drop one of the next 2 and still manage to win at Miami and against Virginia they will still make it to Charlotte, right? How do you see the Hokies offense matching up against the Miami defense?
HD: Yes, because they'd win the tiebreaker against the Canes. You're getting ahead of me, but I think that's going to be a great matchup. It's going to be a challenge for that offensive line to hold off Allen Bailey & Co. I give the Canes the edge up front.
Luke in Garner, N.C., writes: All the talk is going to FSU, but doesn't NC State control its own destiny, too? If they win out, wouldn't they win the Atlantic?
HD: You're absolutely right because in the event of a tie, the Wolfpack would win with head-to-head results against Maryland and Florida State.
Steven in Florence, S.C., writes: Say VT makes it to the Orange Bowl, and BSU doesn't make it to the National Championship. Do you think the powers that be would invite BSU to the Orange Bowl? As a VT fan I would love another shot at those guys.
HD: And I would love to see a rematch, but most bowls have clauses that state they won't pit teams against each other that already played during the regular season.
Walker in Blacksburg writes: You say you would still pick Virginia Tech over Boise State if the two were to play today, but are there are any other ACC teams that you would pick to beat the Broncos right now?
HD: Probably Florida State and Miami. Maybe Clemson.
Robert in Chapel Hill, N.C., writes: Tyrod Taylor. No Davey O'Brien Semi-finalist. Where is the love? I know that as recently as this week you cited Tyrod as the front-runner for offensive player of the year, but where is the love outside of the ACC? How can a QB who is ranked 4th in the country in Passer Rating be left out of the top 16 by a national award?
HD: I've got a vote in that award and I voted for him. That's all I can tell you.
Kyle in Richmond, Va., writes: If VT totally blows GT out of the water next thursday, wouldn't you put VT as the clear favorite in the rest of their games?
HD: Well, it depends on what Miami does to that point. They, too, have Georgia Tech -- on the road -- before facing the Hokies.
Andrwe in Clemson writes: Now that Clemson has gotten off of this losing streak and Ellington has found his run game, how will Clemson do as they move on?
HD: I don't think Andre Ellington ever lost his run game. It was more like opposing defenses could key on him because they didn't respect the passing game. As long as Clemson gets that going down the stretch, they've got a chance at defending their division title.
Matt in Blacksburg writes: If my Hokies drop one of the next 2 and still manage to win at Miami and against Virginia they will still make it to Charlotte, right? How do you see the Hokies offense matching up against the Miami defense?
HD: Yes, because they'd win the tiebreaker against the Canes. You're getting ahead of me, but I think that's going to be a great matchup. It's going to be a challenge for that offensive line to hold off Allen Bailey & Co. I give the Canes the edge up front.
Luke in Garner, N.C., writes: All the talk is going to FSU, but doesn't NC State control its own destiny, too? If they win out, wouldn't they win the Atlantic?
HD: You're absolutely right because in the event of a tie, the Wolfpack would win with head-to-head results against Maryland and Florida State.
Steven in Florence, S.C., writes: Say VT makes it to the Orange Bowl, and BSU doesn't make it to the National Championship. Do you think the powers that be would invite BSU to the Orange Bowl? As a VT fan I would love another shot at those guys.
HD: And I would love to see a rematch, but most bowls have clauses that state they won't pit teams against each other that already played during the regular season.
Walker in Blacksburg writes: You say you would still pick Virginia Tech over Boise State if the two were to play today, but are there are any other ACC teams that you would pick to beat the Broncos right now?
HD: Probably Florida State and Miami. Maybe Clemson.
Robert in Chapel Hill, N.C., writes: Tyrod Taylor. No Davey O'Brien Semi-finalist. Where is the love? I know that as recently as this week you cited Tyrod as the front-runner for offensive player of the year, but where is the love outside of the ACC? How can a QB who is ranked 4th in the country in Passer Rating be left out of the top 16 by a national award?
HD: I've got a vote in that award and I voted for him. That's all I can tell you.
Kyle in Richmond, Va., writes: If VT totally blows GT out of the water next thursday, wouldn't you put VT as the clear favorite in the rest of their games?
HD: Well, it depends on what Miami does to that point. They, too, have Georgia Tech -- on the road -- before facing the Hokies.
Andrwe in Clemson writes: Now that Clemson has gotten off of this losing streak and Ellington has found his run game, how will Clemson do as they move on?
HD: I don't think Andre Ellington ever lost his run game. It was more like opposing defenses could key on him because they didn't respect the passing game. As long as Clemson gets that going down the stretch, they've got a chance at defending their division title.
Here are the ACC's players of the week, as announced today by the league offices in Greensboro, N.C.:
OFFENSIVE BACK – Andre Ellington, Clemson, RB, r-So., 5-10, 190, Moncks Corner, S.C. (Berkeley)
Ellington had a career-high 166 yards rushing in 20 attempts for two touchdowns, along with one scoring reception, to lead Clemson to a 27-13 win over Georgia Tech. He scored first on a 55-yard run in Clemson’s first possession, and then on a 42-yard run in the second period. Ellington caught a 10-yard scoring pass from Kyle Parker for his third touchdown of the day. He also had 79 yards on kickoff returns to finish with 257 all-purpose running yards, also a career best.
OFFENSIVE LINEMAN – Tyler Horn, Miami, OL, Jr., 6-4, 295, Memphis, Tenn. (University)
Horn helped power the Miami offense to 33 points against a North Carolina unit that entered the game ranked second in the ACC in scoring defense. The Canes center graded out at 97 percent and registered six pancake blocks against the Tar Heels. Miami racked up 442 yards of total offense in the game.
DEFENSIVE LINEMAN – Allen Bailey, Miami, DL, Sr., 6-4, 285, Sapelo, Ga. (McIntosh County Academy)
Bailey had a career evening with a game-high 3.5 sacks for a total loss of 13 yards in the Canes' 33-10 win over North Carolina. Miami sacked UNC quarterback T.J. Yates five times, the most by an opposing defense versus the Tar Heels this season. He was also second on the team with six tackles in the game.
DEFENSIVE BACK – Antwine Perez, Maryland, DB, Sr., 6-1, 210, Westville Grove, N.J. (Woodrow Wilson/USC)
Perez came up big defensively for Maryland in its 24-21 win over Boston College. The senior had a hand in all three BC turnovers, collecting two interceptions and recovering a fumble, as the Terps scored 14 points off those miscues. Perez helped the Terps take control of the game in the second quarter as the Eagles turned the ball over on three of their final four possessions of the half. Perez, the first Terp to record multiple interceptions in a game since Cameron Chism had two against MTSU (9/19/09), set up Maryland’s second and third TDs of the game. He recovered a Montel Harris fumble on the BC 38 and picked off Chase Rettig pass on the Eagles’ next offensive play. He also stopped a potential BC scoring drive, intercepting Rettig at the Maryland 26 with less than 30 seconds to go in the opening half. Perez, who is tied for second in the ACC in passes defended (1.29 per game), also had four tackles, including a half of a tackle for loss.
SPECIALIST – Terence Fells-Danzer, Virginia, FB, Jr., 6-1, 250, Culpeper, Va. (Culpeper)
Fells-Danzer made up for a fumbled kickoff return to open the game in a big way in Virginia's 48-21 victory against Eastern Michigan. In the third quarter, after EMU had scored on a 53-yard run to close the score to 24-21, the Eagles decided to short kick to keep the ball away from the ACC’s leading kickoff returner. The short kick came to Fells-Danzer, and he returned it 70 yards for a score that started a 24-0 run by the Cavaliers. It was the second-shortest kickoff return for a TD in Virginia history. Earlier in the game Fells-Danzer, who played linebacker his first two years at Virginia, recorded the first receiving touchdown of his career. Fells-Danzer has already been honored as the CollegeFootballPerformance.com national kickoff returner of the week.
ROOKIE – Danny O'Brien, Maryland, QB, Fr., 6-3, 215, Kernersville, N.C. (East Forsyth)
Starting the fourth game of his collegiate career, O’Brien had an efficient and error-free performance in directing the Terps to their first road win in 11 tries. He completed a career-high 26 passes on 39 attempts (66.7 percent) for 179 yards against BC which ranked third in the ACC in total defense. He also matched a career high with three TD passes, but did not toss an interception. Most importantly, he led the Terps to scores when given the opportunity. Maryland was 3-for-3 (all TDs) in red zone opportunities and converted two of BC’s three turnovers into touchdowns. O’Brien ranks fifth nationally among FBS freshmen in passing efficiency (127.9).
OFFENSIVE BACK – Andre Ellington, Clemson, RB, r-So., 5-10, 190, Moncks Corner, S.C. (Berkeley)
Ellington had a career-high 166 yards rushing in 20 attempts for two touchdowns, along with one scoring reception, to lead Clemson to a 27-13 win over Georgia Tech. He scored first on a 55-yard run in Clemson’s first possession, and then on a 42-yard run in the second period. Ellington caught a 10-yard scoring pass from Kyle Parker for his third touchdown of the day. He also had 79 yards on kickoff returns to finish with 257 all-purpose running yards, also a career best.
OFFENSIVE LINEMAN – Tyler Horn, Miami, OL, Jr., 6-4, 295, Memphis, Tenn. (University)
Horn helped power the Miami offense to 33 points against a North Carolina unit that entered the game ranked second in the ACC in scoring defense. The Canes center graded out at 97 percent and registered six pancake blocks against the Tar Heels. Miami racked up 442 yards of total offense in the game.
DEFENSIVE LINEMAN – Allen Bailey, Miami, DL, Sr., 6-4, 285, Sapelo, Ga. (McIntosh County Academy)
Bailey had a career evening with a game-high 3.5 sacks for a total loss of 13 yards in the Canes' 33-10 win over North Carolina. Miami sacked UNC quarterback T.J. Yates five times, the most by an opposing defense versus the Tar Heels this season. He was also second on the team with six tackles in the game.
DEFENSIVE BACK – Antwine Perez, Maryland, DB, Sr., 6-1, 210, Westville Grove, N.J. (Woodrow Wilson/USC)
Perez came up big defensively for Maryland in its 24-21 win over Boston College. The senior had a hand in all three BC turnovers, collecting two interceptions and recovering a fumble, as the Terps scored 14 points off those miscues. Perez helped the Terps take control of the game in the second quarter as the Eagles turned the ball over on three of their final four possessions of the half. Perez, the first Terp to record multiple interceptions in a game since Cameron Chism had two against MTSU (9/19/09), set up Maryland’s second and third TDs of the game. He recovered a Montel Harris fumble on the BC 38 and picked off Chase Rettig pass on the Eagles’ next offensive play. He also stopped a potential BC scoring drive, intercepting Rettig at the Maryland 26 with less than 30 seconds to go in the opening half. Perez, who is tied for second in the ACC in passes defended (1.29 per game), also had four tackles, including a half of a tackle for loss.
SPECIALIST – Terence Fells-Danzer, Virginia, FB, Jr., 6-1, 250, Culpeper, Va. (Culpeper)
Fells-Danzer made up for a fumbled kickoff return to open the game in a big way in Virginia's 48-21 victory against Eastern Michigan. In the third quarter, after EMU had scored on a 53-yard run to close the score to 24-21, the Eagles decided to short kick to keep the ball away from the ACC’s leading kickoff returner. The short kick came to Fells-Danzer, and he returned it 70 yards for a score that started a 24-0 run by the Cavaliers. It was the second-shortest kickoff return for a TD in Virginia history. Earlier in the game Fells-Danzer, who played linebacker his first two years at Virginia, recorded the first receiving touchdown of his career. Fells-Danzer has already been honored as the CollegeFootballPerformance.com national kickoff returner of the week.
ROOKIE – Danny O'Brien, Maryland, QB, Fr., 6-3, 215, Kernersville, N.C. (East Forsyth)
Starting the fourth game of his collegiate career, O’Brien had an efficient and error-free performance in directing the Terps to their first road win in 11 tries. He completed a career-high 26 passes on 39 attempts (66.7 percent) for 179 yards against BC which ranked third in the ACC in total defense. He also matched a career high with three TD passes, but did not toss an interception. Most importantly, he led the Terps to scores when given the opportunity. Maryland was 3-for-3 (all TDs) in red zone opportunities and converted two of BC’s three turnovers into touchdowns. O’Brien ranks fifth nationally among FBS freshmen in passing efficiency (127.9).
Here are the top five performers in the ACC for Week 8:
Clemson. The Tigers snapped a four-game losing streak to Georgia Tech with a 27-13 win. It was a total team effort, as the offensive line paved the way for running back Andre Ellington, and the defense held Georgia Tech’s running game to about 100 yards fewer than its average. Clemson preserved its own record for most rushing yards by a quarterback, holding Joshua Nesbitt to just 2 yards on 15 carries. Ellington rushed for a career-high 166 yards and two touchdowns.
Virginia Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor. He threw for 280 yards and tied a career-high with three touchdowns, and finished with 327 yards of total offense in a 44-7 romp of Duke. Said Duke coach David Cutcliffe: “I don’t see a college quarterback playing any better in the country. Period.”
Maryland quarterback Danny O’Brien. A week after throwing three interceptions, O’Brien redeemed himself with three touchdowns and no interceptions, leading the Terps to a 24-21 win over Boston College. It was Maryland’s first road win since September, 2008. O’Brien completed 26 of 39 passes for 179 yards.
Miami defensive end Allen Bailey. He had 3.5 of Miami’s five sacks in the Hurricanes’ 33-10 win over UNC. He was double-teamed, but his strength was too much for the Tar Heels to hold back.
Miami's receivers. Coming into the game, Miami's receivers, running backs and tight ends had combined for over 30 drops. Against UNC's inexperienced secondary, three different receivers caught touchdown passes and helped quarterback Jacory Harris out. Six different players had at least two catches.
Clemson. The Tigers snapped a four-game losing streak to Georgia Tech with a 27-13 win. It was a total team effort, as the offensive line paved the way for running back Andre Ellington, and the defense held Georgia Tech’s running game to about 100 yards fewer than its average. Clemson preserved its own record for most rushing yards by a quarterback, holding Joshua Nesbitt to just 2 yards on 15 carries. Ellington rushed for a career-high 166 yards and two touchdowns.
Virginia Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor. He threw for 280 yards and tied a career-high with three touchdowns, and finished with 327 yards of total offense in a 44-7 romp of Duke. Said Duke coach David Cutcliffe: “I don’t see a college quarterback playing any better in the country. Period.”
Maryland quarterback Danny O’Brien. A week after throwing three interceptions, O’Brien redeemed himself with three touchdowns and no interceptions, leading the Terps to a 24-21 win over Boston College. It was Maryland’s first road win since September, 2008. O’Brien completed 26 of 39 passes for 179 yards.
Miami defensive end Allen Bailey. He had 3.5 of Miami’s five sacks in the Hurricanes’ 33-10 win over UNC. He was double-teamed, but his strength was too much for the Tar Heels to hold back.
Miami's receivers. Coming into the game, Miami's receivers, running backs and tight ends had combined for over 30 drops. Against UNC's inexperienced secondary, three different receivers caught touchdown passes and helped quarterback Jacory Harris out. Six different players had at least two catches.
Miami takes advantage of depleted UNC
October, 23, 2010
10/23/10
10:48
PM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
North Carolina had plenty of excuses, from injuries to suspensions, but the biggest reason the Tar Heels lost to Miami 33-10 on Saturday night was because the Canes finally woke up and decided they wanted to contend for the Coastal Division title.
It was a decision that came not a moment too soon.
This was exactly the kind of win Miami needed and it came when the Canes needed it most -- at home against their former coach with little to no margin for error in the Coastal Division standings. Miami snapped a three-game losing streak to Butch Davis and kept its ACC title hopes alive.
Defensive end Allen Bailey was a monster -- 3.5 sacks -- and the defense forced three turnovers. Quarterback Jacory Harris made good use of his running backs and receivers in the passing game and only had one interception.
North Carolina now has two conference losses, which has the Tar Heels looking up at Virginia Tech and Miami in the conference standings. Their game on Nov. 20 could determine the division winner if Miami continues to play like it did Saturday night.
It was a decision that came not a moment too soon.
This was exactly the kind of win Miami needed and it came when the Canes needed it most -- at home against their former coach with little to no margin for error in the Coastal Division standings. Miami snapped a three-game losing streak to Butch Davis and kept its ACC title hopes alive.
Defensive end Allen Bailey was a monster -- 3.5 sacks -- and the defense forced three turnovers. Quarterback Jacory Harris made good use of his running backs and receivers in the passing game and only had one interception.
North Carolina now has two conference losses, which has the Tar Heels looking up at Virginia Tech and Miami in the conference standings. Their game on Nov. 20 could determine the division winner if Miami continues to play like it did Saturday night.
Through the second half of the season, I’ll be monitoring the candidates for three postseason awards: offensive player of the year, defensive player of the year and coach of the year. It’s still too early to get a good read on the race, and candidates can be added or subtracted in the following weeks, based on their performance and the team results. So consider this a starting point and a very fluid list.
For now, here are three front-runners in each category:
Offensive POY
NC State quarterback Russell Wilson -- He completed 38 of 51 pass attempts for 328 yards and three touchdowns in the win over Boston College. Wilson also carried the ball 14 times for 45 yards. Wilson has now passed for 300 or more yards five times in six games this season.
Virginia Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor -- With the 45-21 win over Central Michigan, Taylor won his 27th game as a starter, surpassing Bryan Randall’s previous high of 26 victories. He accounted for 288 of the Hokies’ 394 yards of total offense in that game. He leads the ACC in pass efficiency (156), has completed 61.6 percent of his passes and is fourth in the ACC in total offense with 238.2 yards per game.
FSU guard Rodney Hudson -- FSU piled up 471 total yards in the 45-17 victory over Miami. Hudson matched his season high by earning a grade of 94 percent (92 run/96 pass), which included two knockdown blocks. He did not register a missed assignment or draw a penalty in 62 snaps while leading a running attack that piled up 298 yards on just 40 carries (7.4 ypc).
On the bubble: Clemson RB Andre Ellington, Duke WR Conner Vernon, FSU QB Christian Ponder, Georgia Tech quarterback Joshua Nesbitt, Maryland receiver Torrey Smith, Miami receiver Leonard Hankerson, UNC running back Johnny White,
Defensive POY
NC State linebacker Nate Irving -- He had six tackles, one pass breakup a quarterback hurry and half a sack in the win over BC. He leads his team with 45 tackles. He has four quarterback hurries, one forced fumble, 8.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks.
Clemson defensive end Da’Quan Bowers -- He had two sacks for 16 yards in the loss to North Carolina. He now has six sacks in just five games and 11.5 tackles for loss. In five games he has already exceeded his 2009 season totals in terms of sacks and tackles for loss. Bowers ranks third in the nation for tackles for loss and is tied for fourth in sacks.
Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly -- It’s hard to imagine making 20 tackles and not getting the W. That’s what happened to Kuechly against NC State. He leads the nation in tackles with 14.2 per game. He reached 200 career tackles faster than any other player in school history. He owns the nation’s longest streak of games with double digit tackles at 14. He leads the team with 71 total tackles and has recovered two fumbles.
On the bubble: FSU defensive end Brandon Jenkins, Miami defensive end Allen Bailey, Wake Forest defensive end Kyle Wilber, Virginia Tech defensive back Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech linebacker Bruce Taylor, Virginia defensive back Chase Minnifield, UNC linebacker Bruce Carter, Maryland linebacker Alex Wujciak,
Coach of the Year
NC State coach Tom O’Brien -- He finally defeated his former program, Boston College, and has the Pack off to their best start since 2002.
Florida State coach Jimbo Fisher -- He celebrated his 45th birthday with a 45-17 win over rival Miami and has the Seminoles leading the Atlantic Division in his first season as a head coach.
Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen -- After a 2-10 finish in 2009, the Terps are now 4-1 overall with their lone loss coming on the road to a ranked West Virginia team.
For now, here are three front-runners in each category:
Offensive POY
NC State quarterback Russell Wilson -- He completed 38 of 51 pass attempts for 328 yards and three touchdowns in the win over Boston College. Wilson also carried the ball 14 times for 45 yards. Wilson has now passed for 300 or more yards five times in six games this season.
Virginia Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor -- With the 45-21 win over Central Michigan, Taylor won his 27th game as a starter, surpassing Bryan Randall’s previous high of 26 victories. He accounted for 288 of the Hokies’ 394 yards of total offense in that game. He leads the ACC in pass efficiency (156), has completed 61.6 percent of his passes and is fourth in the ACC in total offense with 238.2 yards per game.
FSU guard Rodney Hudson -- FSU piled up 471 total yards in the 45-17 victory over Miami. Hudson matched his season high by earning a grade of 94 percent (92 run/96 pass), which included two knockdown blocks. He did not register a missed assignment or draw a penalty in 62 snaps while leading a running attack that piled up 298 yards on just 40 carries (7.4 ypc).
On the bubble: Clemson RB Andre Ellington, Duke WR Conner Vernon, FSU QB Christian Ponder, Georgia Tech quarterback Joshua Nesbitt, Maryland receiver Torrey Smith, Miami receiver Leonard Hankerson, UNC running back Johnny White,
Defensive POY
NC State linebacker Nate Irving -- He had six tackles, one pass breakup a quarterback hurry and half a sack in the win over BC. He leads his team with 45 tackles. He has four quarterback hurries, one forced fumble, 8.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks.
Clemson defensive end Da’Quan Bowers -- He had two sacks for 16 yards in the loss to North Carolina. He now has six sacks in just five games and 11.5 tackles for loss. In five games he has already exceeded his 2009 season totals in terms of sacks and tackles for loss. Bowers ranks third in the nation for tackles for loss and is tied for fourth in sacks.
Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly -- It’s hard to imagine making 20 tackles and not getting the W. That’s what happened to Kuechly against NC State. He leads the nation in tackles with 14.2 per game. He reached 200 career tackles faster than any other player in school history. He owns the nation’s longest streak of games with double digit tackles at 14. He leads the team with 71 total tackles and has recovered two fumbles.
On the bubble: FSU defensive end Brandon Jenkins, Miami defensive end Allen Bailey, Wake Forest defensive end Kyle Wilber, Virginia Tech defensive back Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech linebacker Bruce Taylor, Virginia defensive back Chase Minnifield, UNC linebacker Bruce Carter, Maryland linebacker Alex Wujciak,
Coach of the Year
NC State coach Tom O’Brien -- He finally defeated his former program, Boston College, and has the Pack off to their best start since 2002.
Florida State coach Jimbo Fisher -- He celebrated his 45th birthday with a 45-17 win over rival Miami and has the Seminoles leading the Atlantic Division in his first season as a head coach.
Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen -- After a 2-10 finish in 2009, the Terps are now 4-1 overall with their lone loss coming on the road to a ranked West Virginia team.
CLEMSON, S.C. -- It's still early, but this game has the makings so far of another down-to-the wire game. Thanks to a 71-yard touchdown run by Andre Ellington -- the longest run of his career -- the game is now tied at 7. That was the longest run by a Clemson player since C.J. Spiller in the Chick-fil-A Bowl during the 2007 season. Both teams have scored thanks to their running games, have made key stops defensively and have struggled in the passing game. Miami freshman lineman Seantrel Henderson has been holding his own every other series, and Allen Bailey has again lined up at both end and tackle.
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.
