ACC: Dana Bible
Halftime thoughts on ACC's early games
November, 5, 2011
11/05/11
2:19
PM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
We've got two interesting games going on this afternoon, but the bigger surprise is in Chapel Hill, where NC State leads 10-0 at the half. Here's a look back at the first half of the ACC's first two games:
NC State 10, UNC 0
At least so far in this half, NC State gets this week's Jekyll and Hyde award in the ACC. Up against Virginia. Down at Florida State. Now up again in the first half against the rival Tar Heels. NC State's defense has been the difference so far, as UNC has started out 0-of-5 on third-down conversions, and is just 1-of-8 at the half. The Tar Heels have minus-11 rushing yards, and Giovani Bernard, with just 21 yards, is going nowhere. NC State quarterback Mike Glennon and his receivers got off to a slow start, but eventually found their groove, and Dana Bible has been mixing it up just enough to keep UNC's defense leery of the running game.
I know it's a rivalry game, and records go out the window and all of those great cliches, but c'mon -- NC State lost to Florida State 34-zip a week ago and was beaten soundly in every phase of the game. Meanwhile, UNC receiver Erik Highsmith told me last week that the Tar Heels had just played their most complete game of the season in the win against Wake Forest, which beat NC State. Now it's UNC looking for answers. If they don't make some adjustments and find them soon, the Wolfpack will get its fifth straight win in the rivalry, and interim coach Everett Withers should probably start adjusting his resume.
Virginia 14, Maryland 13
This one has been pretty evenly matched and fun to watch. One big difference in the first half was a forced fumble by Maryland's Joe Vellano -- one of the most underrated defensive linemen in the league this season. The Terps were able to score off of that Virginia mistake and take their first lead in the game. Maryland quarterback Danny O'Brien started the game, but C.J. Brown came off the bench following the turnover and was 2-for-2 with a 13-yard touchdown pass and also had a 25-yard run to UVa's 13-yard line to set up the score. Holding Maryland to a field goal in the first quarter was a victory for Virginia's defense.
UVa quarterback Michael Rocco, who seemed to hit his stride in the win against Miami last weekend with true freshman David Watford's role limited to one snap, is building on that success. He has been the better quarterback so far, and Maryland's defense is again failing to stop the run, as they have allowed another 100-yard rusher, this time in Perry Jones, who has 10 carries for 100 yards in the half. As long as the Hoos don't turn the ball over anymore or hurt themselves with penalties, they should be able to continue to take advantage of a young Maryland defense, especially in the running game. Maryland clearly hasn't quit on this season yet, and it's far from over on senior day in College Park.
NC State 10, UNC 0
At least so far in this half, NC State gets this week's Jekyll and Hyde award in the ACC. Up against Virginia. Down at Florida State. Now up again in the first half against the rival Tar Heels. NC State's defense has been the difference so far, as UNC has started out 0-of-5 on third-down conversions, and is just 1-of-8 at the half. The Tar Heels have minus-11 rushing yards, and Giovani Bernard, with just 21 yards, is going nowhere. NC State quarterback Mike Glennon and his receivers got off to a slow start, but eventually found their groove, and Dana Bible has been mixing it up just enough to keep UNC's defense leery of the running game.
I know it's a rivalry game, and records go out the window and all of those great cliches, but c'mon -- NC State lost to Florida State 34-zip a week ago and was beaten soundly in every phase of the game. Meanwhile, UNC receiver Erik Highsmith told me last week that the Tar Heels had just played their most complete game of the season in the win against Wake Forest, which beat NC State. Now it's UNC looking for answers. If they don't make some adjustments and find them soon, the Wolfpack will get its fifth straight win in the rivalry, and interim coach Everett Withers should probably start adjusting his resume.
Virginia 14, Maryland 13
This one has been pretty evenly matched and fun to watch. One big difference in the first half was a forced fumble by Maryland's Joe Vellano -- one of the most underrated defensive linemen in the league this season. The Terps were able to score off of that Virginia mistake and take their first lead in the game. Maryland quarterback Danny O'Brien started the game, but C.J. Brown came off the bench following the turnover and was 2-for-2 with a 13-yard touchdown pass and also had a 25-yard run to UVa's 13-yard line to set up the score. Holding Maryland to a field goal in the first quarter was a victory for Virginia's defense.
UVa quarterback Michael Rocco, who seemed to hit his stride in the win against Miami last weekend with true freshman David Watford's role limited to one snap, is building on that success. He has been the better quarterback so far, and Maryland's defense is again failing to stop the run, as they have allowed another 100-yard rusher, this time in Perry Jones, who has 10 carries for 100 yards in the half. As long as the Hoos don't turn the ball over anymore or hurt themselves with penalties, they should be able to continue to take advantage of a young Maryland defense, especially in the running game. Maryland clearly hasn't quit on this season yet, and it's far from over on senior day in College Park.
At least seven teams in the ACC will have first-year starting quarterbacks. It’s time to get to know them:
BEST ARM: Mike Glennon, NC State. Those within the program, including offensive coordinator Dana Bible, have expressed confidence in Glennon’s strength and accuracy. Said teammate and receiver T.J. Graham: “Run your route properly and the ball will be right where it’s supposed to be. Mike, he’s going to throw the ball deep.”
BIGGEST THREAT ON THE GROUND: Tevin Washington, Georgia Tech. It sort of comes with the territory in Paul Johnson’s spread option offense. Washington played in eight games last season and started four and rushed 116 times for 514 yards (4.4 yards per carry) and four touchdowns. He is the Jackets’ second-leading returning rusher behind Orwin Smith.
GROUND THREAT NO. 2: Tajh Boyd, Clemson. Don’t be fooled by the label “up-tempo, no-huddle spread offense.” Clemson will run the ball often and efficiently this fall, and first-year offensive coordinator Chad Morris said Boyd is tailor-made to lead his offense. Boyd had eight carries for 43 yards in the spring game.
MOST IMPROVED: Chase Rettig, Boston College. It’s not like he was bad last season, he just wasn’t ready. Throw into the fire as a true freshman against Notre Dame in the fourth game of the season, Rettig went on to complete 51.3 percent of his passes for 1,238 yards, six touchdowns and nine interceptions. The hire of Kevin Rogers as offensive coordinator should help elevate his game another level this fall.
NEWCOMER TO WATCH: Logan Thomas, Virginia Tech. Florida State’s EJ Manuel has garnered most of the preseason hype, but there are rave reviews coming out of Blacksburg. Thomas is tasked with replacing the winningest quarterback in school history, but he exceeded expectations this spring,
MOST UNDERRATED: Sean Renfree, Duke. There’s no question he could be one of the best -- if not the best -- quarterback in the ACC this season, but unless Duke goes bowling, he might not get the credit for it. His arm strength has improved along with his decision-making skills and accuracy. He completed 61.4 percent of his pass attempts last season for 3,131 yards, 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions.
MOST ANTICIPATED: EJ Manuel, Florida State. He’s already won two bowl games and played in an ACC championship game, but this will be his first season as a full-time starter. If Florida State is going to live up to the hype this season, Manuel will have to live up to the expectations, too.
DON’T FORGET ABOUT: Danny O’Brien, Maryland. He was only the ACC’s 2010 Rookie of the Year. How quickly we forget. He’s got excellent knowledge of the game and should have no problem adapting to the first season under offensive coordinator Gary Crowton. He was 7-3 as a starter last season, and should only be better this fall.
Year of the Quarterback
ESPN has dedicated 2011 to examining one of the most crucial positions in all of sports -- the quarterback.
Year of the QB »
BIGGEST THREAT ON THE GROUND: Tevin Washington, Georgia Tech. It sort of comes with the territory in Paul Johnson’s spread option offense. Washington played in eight games last season and started four and rushed 116 times for 514 yards (4.4 yards per carry) and four touchdowns. He is the Jackets’ second-leading returning rusher behind Orwin Smith.
GROUND THREAT NO. 2: Tajh Boyd, Clemson. Don’t be fooled by the label “up-tempo, no-huddle spread offense.” Clemson will run the ball often and efficiently this fall, and first-year offensive coordinator Chad Morris said Boyd is tailor-made to lead his offense. Boyd had eight carries for 43 yards in the spring game.
MOST IMPROVED: Chase Rettig, Boston College. It’s not like he was bad last season, he just wasn’t ready. Throw into the fire as a true freshman against Notre Dame in the fourth game of the season, Rettig went on to complete 51.3 percent of his passes for 1,238 yards, six touchdowns and nine interceptions. The hire of Kevin Rogers as offensive coordinator should help elevate his game another level this fall.
NEWCOMER TO WATCH: Logan Thomas, Virginia Tech. Florida State’s EJ Manuel has garnered most of the preseason hype, but there are rave reviews coming out of Blacksburg. Thomas is tasked with replacing the winningest quarterback in school history, but he exceeded expectations this spring,
MOST UNDERRATED: Sean Renfree, Duke. There’s no question he could be one of the best -- if not the best -- quarterback in the ACC this season, but unless Duke goes bowling, he might not get the credit for it. His arm strength has improved along with his decision-making skills and accuracy. He completed 61.4 percent of his pass attempts last season for 3,131 yards, 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions.
MOST ANTICIPATED: EJ Manuel, Florida State. He’s already won two bowl games and played in an ACC championship game, but this will be his first season as a full-time starter. If Florida State is going to live up to the hype this season, Manuel will have to live up to the expectations, too.
DON’T FORGET ABOUT: Danny O’Brien, Maryland. He was only the ACC’s 2010 Rookie of the Year. How quickly we forget. He’s got excellent knowledge of the game and should have no problem adapting to the first season under offensive coordinator Gary Crowton. He was 7-3 as a starter last season, and should only be better this fall.
The series highlighting one assistant coach from each ACC school whose position group will be in the spotlight this fall continues today with NC State:
Coach: Dana Bible
Position: Offensive coordinator/quarterbacks/receivers
Experience: Bible has coached in the NFL and at six different colleges including NC State, where he has coached twice. He began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at his alma mater, Cincinnati, and coached the quarterbacks there from 1978-80. In 1981, Bible coached the receivers at Miami (Ohio), and then left to coach the quarterbacks and receivers at NC State from 1983-85. He has also made stops at San Diego State, Stanford, and coached in the NFL with Cincinnati and Philadelphia. From 1999-2006, Bible was held the same title he holds now at Boston College before following Tom O’Brien to Raleigh.
Of note: Bible has coached more than 15 NFL players, including Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan. His playing days were spent on the defensive side, though, as he was a starting cornerback at Cincinnati from 1972-75.
His challenge: Life after Russell Wilson. The Mike Glennon era has officially begun, and there were plenty of NC State fans left disgruntled about the fact their star quarterback is now wearing a Wisconsin uniform. While Glennon has received praise from those within the program, he is a first-year starter who lacks game experience. Glennon played in only three games last season but completed 69.2 percent of his throws. He threw for eight touchdowns in three spring scrimmages. He’s a different quarterback than Wilson in that he’s taller, has a better arm and is more of a prototypical passer, but only time will tell if Glennon is a better quarterback. Bible also carries the title of receivers coach, and that’s another position that will be in the spotlight this fall at NC State. The Wolfpack has to replace both starting receivers from 2010, and this past spring, none of the receivers separated themselves. That will have to change this summer if the passing game is going to flourish under a new starter. It’s up to Bible to coach ‘em up.
Coach: Dana Bible
Position: Offensive coordinator/quarterbacks/receivers
Experience: Bible has coached in the NFL and at six different colleges including NC State, where he has coached twice. He began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at his alma mater, Cincinnati, and coached the quarterbacks there from 1978-80. In 1981, Bible coached the receivers at Miami (Ohio), and then left to coach the quarterbacks and receivers at NC State from 1983-85. He has also made stops at San Diego State, Stanford, and coached in the NFL with Cincinnati and Philadelphia. From 1999-2006, Bible was held the same title he holds now at Boston College before following Tom O’Brien to Raleigh.
Of note: Bible has coached more than 15 NFL players, including Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan. His playing days were spent on the defensive side, though, as he was a starting cornerback at Cincinnati from 1972-75.
His challenge: Life after Russell Wilson. The Mike Glennon era has officially begun, and there were plenty of NC State fans left disgruntled about the fact their star quarterback is now wearing a Wisconsin uniform. While Glennon has received praise from those within the program, he is a first-year starter who lacks game experience. Glennon played in only three games last season but completed 69.2 percent of his throws. He threw for eight touchdowns in three spring scrimmages. He’s a different quarterback than Wilson in that he’s taller, has a better arm and is more of a prototypical passer, but only time will tell if Glennon is a better quarterback. Bible also carries the title of receivers coach, and that’s another position that will be in the spotlight this fall at NC State. The Wolfpack has to replace both starting receivers from 2010, and this past spring, none of the receivers separated themselves. That will have to change this summer if the passing game is going to flourish under a new starter. It’s up to Bible to coach ‘em up.
Former NC State quarterback Russell Wilson is listed at 5-foot-11. His successor, Mike Glennon, is listed at 6-foot-6. Wilson’s athleticism and ability to run kept plays alive, but Glennon’s ability to make a throw almost anywhere on the field could be a huge advantage for NC State this fall.
The quarterbacks are different, and the offense will look different.
“We will play to the strength of our players,” offensive coordinator Dana Bible said. “What we try to do is feature where our strengths are and minimize where we’re not as strong. The fact that we have a new quarterback this year will mean that there are changes to play to the strength of Mike. But it isn’t just the one position, it’s the entire offense. This year we’re less experienced at the wide receiver position than we’ve been in the past, but we’ve gained experience at the running back position compared to a year ago. It’s the entire offense, it’s not just one position.”
But it’s the position of focus in Raleigh this fall.
The departure of Wilson understandably caused some angst amongst NC State fans, and all eyes will be on Glennon to see if he can build upon the success of last year’s nine-win season. The Wolfpack have an extremely favorable schedule and should be considered a contender again, but Glennon lacks significant starting experience. There’s no question he’s been embraced as the leader in the huddle, and Bible said Glennon has done everything he could possibly do to prepare himself for his first season as full-time starter.
“He has worked hard and prepared himself so he’s done a great job of putting himself in position to be successful,” Bible said. “He’s going to find out and we’re going to find out how quickly the transition occurs. Right now in Mike’s case the most important thing is for him to play in a game, to get into a game and grow from those experiences.”
Yesterday in the Twitter world I asked NC State fans if they held coach Tom O’Brien accountable for Russell Wilson’s departure, or if they have embraced Glennon as their new starter. There were mixed reviews:
@Bullard_ I think TOBs decision showed why he is a great leader. No player is bigger than the team. He did what was best for the program
@AlexThorneDC Wilson wanted to explore baseball and TOB wanted a QB that would lead team through Spring. Can't find fault with either one.
@michaeltheg Total wait & see approach now. All depends on performance of both. It will hurt 2 not see RW in red & white regardless.
@OntheDunk I understand y TOB had to cut RW loose but it will haunt us. Yes TOB is accountable. I accept MG as starter, but expectations low.
@nick_c_snow RW will certainly be missed...but how much he will be missed can't be answered until MG is given a chance to perform.
@dfcf99 TOB is definitely accountable for Russell's departure, nevertheless I have accepted Glennon as our QB & wish the best for all.
@chuckwillis As an NC State fan, I can't fathom how you can let someone that good walk. Glennon better be the real deal.
@wxmoose You can't hold TOB accountable for a kid that can't make his mind up over something.
Thanks for the responses. Join in the discussions by following me @ESPN_ACC.
The quarterbacks are different, and the offense will look different.
“We will play to the strength of our players,” offensive coordinator Dana Bible said. “What we try to do is feature where our strengths are and minimize where we’re not as strong. The fact that we have a new quarterback this year will mean that there are changes to play to the strength of Mike. But it isn’t just the one position, it’s the entire offense. This year we’re less experienced at the wide receiver position than we’ve been in the past, but we’ve gained experience at the running back position compared to a year ago. It’s the entire offense, it’s not just one position.”
But it’s the position of focus in Raleigh this fall.
The departure of Wilson understandably caused some angst amongst NC State fans, and all eyes will be on Glennon to see if he can build upon the success of last year’s nine-win season. The Wolfpack have an extremely favorable schedule and should be considered a contender again, but Glennon lacks significant starting experience. There’s no question he’s been embraced as the leader in the huddle, and Bible said Glennon has done everything he could possibly do to prepare himself for his first season as full-time starter.
“He has worked hard and prepared himself so he’s done a great job of putting himself in position to be successful,” Bible said. “He’s going to find out and we’re going to find out how quickly the transition occurs. Right now in Mike’s case the most important thing is for him to play in a game, to get into a game and grow from those experiences.”
Yesterday in the Twitter world I asked NC State fans if they held coach Tom O’Brien accountable for Russell Wilson’s departure, or if they have embraced Glennon as their new starter. There were mixed reviews:
@Bullard_ I think TOBs decision showed why he is a great leader. No player is bigger than the team. He did what was best for the program
@AlexThorneDC Wilson wanted to explore baseball and TOB wanted a QB that would lead team through Spring. Can't find fault with either one.
@michaeltheg Total wait & see approach now. All depends on performance of both. It will hurt 2 not see RW in red & white regardless.
@OntheDunk I understand y TOB had to cut RW loose but it will haunt us. Yes TOB is accountable. I accept MG as starter, but expectations low.
@nick_c_snow RW will certainly be missed...but how much he will be missed can't be answered until MG is given a chance to perform.
@dfcf99 TOB is definitely accountable for Russell's departure, nevertheless I have accepted Glennon as our QB & wish the best for all.
@chuckwillis As an NC State fan, I can't fathom how you can let someone that good walk. Glennon better be the real deal.
@wxmoose You can't hold TOB accountable for a kid that can't make his mind up over something.
Thanks for the responses. Join in the discussions by following me @ESPN_ACC.
On my way to Raleigh today ...
- Containing FSU quarterback Christian Ponder will be key for the Wolfpack.
- Containing NC State quarterback Russell Wilson will be key for the Seminoles.
- The Atlantic Division standings are at stake.
- One of the underrated stories in college football is the recovery of NC State offensive coordinator Dana Bible.
- The Shoop Bowl is on.
- Georgia Tech's defense is preparing for Virginia Tech's "two-headed beast."
- BC defensive end Max Holloway has the family history, now he's looking to prove he has what it takes to start.
- Miami wide receiver Leonard Hankerson finally got some help from his teammates.
- Virginia coach Mike London has found a role for Terrance Fells-Danzer and several other players you might not have heard about prior to this season.
- The cartoonist at the Diamondback, Maryland's school newspaper, issued a clarification and apology about her cartoon regarding injured offensive lineman Pete DeSouza. Sounds genuine. Time to move on.
TGIOctober ...
- NC State linebacker Nate Irving gives his take on his performance against Georgia Tech in the school newspaper, Technician.
- Georgia Tech receiver Tyler Melton has become more comfortable with his role in the offense.
- BC defensive end Alex Albright is praying he has no more injuries.
- It's time for UNC coach Butch Davis to be fired or leave writes Caulton Tudor.
- Defensive tackle Marvin Austin hasn't given up on playing this year.
- NC State will be happy to have offensive coordinator Dana Bible back on the sidelines this time around against the Hokies.
- Virginia Tech defensive end Chris Drager is a "tough nut." He's from the 'Burgh, what do yins expect?
- FSU defensive end Brandon Jenkins has worked his way into the spotlight.
- Clemson quarterback Kyle Parker is already a millionaire. No wonder he's not stressing this year.
- Maryland's Tony Logan is trying to follow in his good friend Kyle Wilson's footsteps.
- Wake Forest will go with Ted Stachitas at quarterback against Georgia Tech.
- David Glenn talked with Duke coach David Cutcliffe.
- Miami has special packages prepared for Seantrel Henderson against Clemson.
- Virginia defensive backs Ras-I Dowling and Rodney McLeod both "look fine" and will play against FSU.
Here's your ACC news from everywhere but Greensboro, N.C. ...
- Miami's offensive line is banged up, but coach Randy Shannon says no worries -- it's not the season.
- FSU's new defensive staff should all be on the same page now, especially coordinator Mark Stoops and defensive ends coach D.J. Eliot.
- NC State welcomed back offensive coordinator Dana Bible and linebacker Nate Irving to practice this week, but there were also plenty of faces missing.
- They hype has started for FSU quarterback Christian Ponder, and coach Jimbo Fisher is part of it.
- Clemson coach Dabo Swinney received a one-year contract extension to go along with his raise, and the athletic department gave his assistants raises, too.
Great news for NC State and even better news for offensive coordinator Dana Bible, who was diagnosed with cancer in November -- Bible should return to the sideline this season full-time.
"Dana is in the fourth week of a five-week cycle," NC State coach Tom O'Brien said. "He does chemotherapy five days a week and he gets the weekend off. He does have a couple weeks break after this cycle. Every report has been positive and he is on track in his recovery process. He can't be around a lot of crowds. He does his chemo in the mornings and comes in the office in the afternoon, I think for sanity sake, if you want to call us sanity. I think by a date as soon as May he should be fine and back to normal, full-time."
"Dana is in the fourth week of a five-week cycle," NC State coach Tom O'Brien said. "He does chemotherapy five days a week and he gets the weekend off. He does have a couple weeks break after this cycle. Every report has been positive and he is on track in his recovery process. He can't be around a lot of crowds. He does his chemo in the mornings and comes in the office in the afternoon, I think for sanity sake, if you want to call us sanity. I think by a date as soon as May he should be fine and back to normal, full-time."
It's almost signing day; almost ...
Bob in Stamford, Conn., writes: What is going on with the scheduling of future games between BC and Notre Dame? I had heard that there was a possibility of games in 2018-19 range, but nothing confirmed. I am sorry to see that Notre Dame is willing to let this natural rivalry between the only two Catholic FBS teams die.
HD: You heard correctly. There has been talk about future scheduling, but nothing has been confirmed. I agree it would be a shame to see this rivalry disappear.
Adam in Blacksburg, Va., writes: Heather, as a student at VT, I am actually a bit disturbed that Boise and VT are this close to moving the game to Labor Day. For one, why would VT want this? We have a young - very young - defense that could sure use some tune up games to start the year. Additionally, don't they care about the students at all? I mean, we have class that day, I guess half the student body will just have to skip; I know I won't be missing this match-up!
HD: I'll be more than willing to write you a hall pass for this one if need be, Adam. You're right, it's going to make for much higher stakes for the Hokies if it's bumped up because the new faces on defense won't have had as much time to adjust and work the kinks out, but Frank Beamer, historically, has liked for his players to have tough tests early so they know where they stand. We'll definitely find out in September, if the game is moved.
Ron in Belleville, Ill., writes: Any chance that the Big Ten will look at Maryland as part of its expansion considerations? Maryland seems to satisfy a lot of criteria: academic fit, contiguous to an existing Big Ten state (and the PSU/UMd games in the 1980's were great), large athletic department that's competitive in many sports, and most importantly, opening up the DC/Baltimore metro area to the Big Ten network. If so, any chance that Maryland would seriously consider the offer?
HD: The chances of that happening are about as good as me becoming the next draft pick. Geographically, financially, historically -- it's not a good fit for the Terps. And you're joking about the series with Penn State, right? Maryland is 1-35-1 against the Nits and hasn't beaten them since 1961.
Jason in Raleigh, N.C., writes: Hey HD do you have any update on how Dana Bible is doing? I can't find anything and was just wondering thanks a lot.
HD: He's going through chemo, is back at home and is doing as well as can be expected, according to a school spokesman.
Butch in Asheville, N.C. writes: Can you please explain the role of Hargrave Military Academy? I looked it up online and I still don't quite understand why football players go there after high school.
HD: It's a prep school, Butch. It's basically a football factory for players who don't qualify academically right out of high school.
Bob in Stamford, Conn., writes: What is going on with the scheduling of future games between BC and Notre Dame? I had heard that there was a possibility of games in 2018-19 range, but nothing confirmed. I am sorry to see that Notre Dame is willing to let this natural rivalry between the only two Catholic FBS teams die.
HD: You heard correctly. There has been talk about future scheduling, but nothing has been confirmed. I agree it would be a shame to see this rivalry disappear.
Adam in Blacksburg, Va., writes: Heather, as a student at VT, I am actually a bit disturbed that Boise and VT are this close to moving the game to Labor Day. For one, why would VT want this? We have a young - very young - defense that could sure use some tune up games to start the year. Additionally, don't they care about the students at all? I mean, we have class that day, I guess half the student body will just have to skip; I know I won't be missing this match-up!
HD: I'll be more than willing to write you a hall pass for this one if need be, Adam. You're right, it's going to make for much higher stakes for the Hokies if it's bumped up because the new faces on defense won't have had as much time to adjust and work the kinks out, but Frank Beamer, historically, has liked for his players to have tough tests early so they know where they stand. We'll definitely find out in September, if the game is moved.
Ron in Belleville, Ill., writes: Any chance that the Big Ten will look at Maryland as part of its expansion considerations? Maryland seems to satisfy a lot of criteria: academic fit, contiguous to an existing Big Ten state (and the PSU/UMd games in the 1980's were great), large athletic department that's competitive in many sports, and most importantly, opening up the DC/Baltimore metro area to the Big Ten network. If so, any chance that Maryland would seriously consider the offer?
HD: The chances of that happening are about as good as me becoming the next draft pick. Geographically, financially, historically -- it's not a good fit for the Terps. And you're joking about the series with Penn State, right? Maryland is 1-35-1 against the Nits and hasn't beaten them since 1961.
Jason in Raleigh, N.C., writes: Hey HD do you have any update on how Dana Bible is doing? I can't find anything and was just wondering thanks a lot.
HD: He's going through chemo, is back at home and is doing as well as can be expected, according to a school spokesman.
Butch in Asheville, N.C. writes: Can you please explain the role of Hargrave Military Academy? I looked it up online and I still don't quite understand why football players go there after high school.
HD: It's a prep school, Butch. It's basically a football factory for players who don't qualify academically right out of high school.
Keep in mind that this is not a preseason ranking. The fact that Georgia Tech just lost four of its best players to the NFL draft has nothing to do with this. We’ll save that one for later. Here is the final power ranking for the 2009 season:
1. Georgia Tech (11-3, 7-1) – Despite the loss to Iowa in the FedEx Orange Bowl, this is still the team that beat the best the ACC had to offer. The Jackets’ win over Virginia Tech and their two wins over Clemson are what earned them the top spot. They are still the defending ACC champs, a title Iowa couldn’t take away.
2. Virginia Tech (10-3, 6-2) – The Hokies put together a complete performance in their convincing win over Tennessee in the Chick-fil-A Bowl and earned their sixth straight 10-win season. They head into 2010 on a five-game winning streak and with a much improved offense.
3. Clemson (9-5, 6-2) – The Tigers made a habit out of regrouping this year. First, after their 2-3 start to the season, and then heading into the Music City Bowl after back-to-back losses to rival South Carolina and Georgia Tech. The Tigers sent C.J. Spiller off with a win over Kentucky.
4. Miami (9-4, 5-3) – The Hurricanes took another step forward under coach Randy Shannon, winning nine games, but remained status quo in the postseason. The Canes ran into a more physical Wisconsin team in the Champs Sports Bowl, and lost their chance at entering 2010 with a top 15 ranking.
5. Florida State (7-6, 4-4) – The Noles earned respect for their surprising upset of West Virginia in the Gator Bowl, and proved they can make the plays on defense if they want to. In one game, the Bobby Bowden era ended, and the Jimbo Fisher era officially began.
6. Boston College (8-5, 5-3) – The Eagles put up a respectable performance against USC in the Emerald Bowl and were in a position to win the game. One glaring weakness remained all season, and that was freshman mistakes at quarterback, where Dave Shinskie is bound to improve with time.
7. North Carolina (8-5, 4-4) – The Tar Heels left much to be desired in the Meineke Car Care Bowl, losing again in the same city to another Big East team. This time Pitt took advantage of UNC’s mistakes, and the Heels couldn’t get their ground game going again.
8. Wake Forest (5-7, 3-5) – The Deacs should be remembered as the ACC’s unluckiest team in 2009, as they were only a few points away from an entirely different season. The win over Stanford, in retrospect, was among the best the conference had to offer in its nonconference schedule.
9. Duke (5-7, 3-5) – The Blue Devils again made progress under coach David Cutcliffe, clinging to bowl hopes for the majority of the season, but they faded down the stretch with a four-game losing streak. If Duke couldn’t make the postseason with quarterback Thaddeus Lewis, it will be difficult to do it without him.
10. NC State (5-7, 2-6) – Tom O’Brien’s career at NC State has been a series of one unfortunate event after another. There is no questioning his ability as a coach -- his resume speaks for itself. But once again, the Pack couldn’t overcome significant injuries, and the devastating news that their offensive coordinator, Dana Bible, had been diagnosed with cancer. They could, however, overcome UNC. Again.
11. Virginia (3-9, 2-6) – The Cavaliers ended the season they way they started -- in disappointment. Six straight losses, including in the season finale to rival Virginia, cost Al Groh his job. The last time the Cavaliers lost nine games in a season was in 1982.
12. Maryland (2-10, 1-7) – There wasn’t a bowl game, but coach Ralph Friedgen escaped a dreadful 2-10 season with his job instead. The one thing the Terps could celebrate this season was their still-baffling 24-21 win over ACC-runner up Clemson.
1. Georgia Tech (11-3, 7-1) – Despite the loss to Iowa in the FedEx Orange Bowl, this is still the team that beat the best the ACC had to offer. The Jackets’ win over Virginia Tech and their two wins over Clemson are what earned them the top spot. They are still the defending ACC champs, a title Iowa couldn’t take away.
2. Virginia Tech (10-3, 6-2) – The Hokies put together a complete performance in their convincing win over Tennessee in the Chick-fil-A Bowl and earned their sixth straight 10-win season. They head into 2010 on a five-game winning streak and with a much improved offense.
3. Clemson (9-5, 6-2) – The Tigers made a habit out of regrouping this year. First, after their 2-3 start to the season, and then heading into the Music City Bowl after back-to-back losses to rival South Carolina and Georgia Tech. The Tigers sent C.J. Spiller off with a win over Kentucky.
4. Miami (9-4, 5-3) – The Hurricanes took another step forward under coach Randy Shannon, winning nine games, but remained status quo in the postseason. The Canes ran into a more physical Wisconsin team in the Champs Sports Bowl, and lost their chance at entering 2010 with a top 15 ranking.
5. Florida State (7-6, 4-4) – The Noles earned respect for their surprising upset of West Virginia in the Gator Bowl, and proved they can make the plays on defense if they want to. In one game, the Bobby Bowden era ended, and the Jimbo Fisher era officially began.
6. Boston College (8-5, 5-3) – The Eagles put up a respectable performance against USC in the Emerald Bowl and were in a position to win the game. One glaring weakness remained all season, and that was freshman mistakes at quarterback, where Dave Shinskie is bound to improve with time.
7. North Carolina (8-5, 4-4) – The Tar Heels left much to be desired in the Meineke Car Care Bowl, losing again in the same city to another Big East team. This time Pitt took advantage of UNC’s mistakes, and the Heels couldn’t get their ground game going again.
8. Wake Forest (5-7, 3-5) – The Deacs should be remembered as the ACC’s unluckiest team in 2009, as they were only a few points away from an entirely different season. The win over Stanford, in retrospect, was among the best the conference had to offer in its nonconference schedule.
9. Duke (5-7, 3-5) – The Blue Devils again made progress under coach David Cutcliffe, clinging to bowl hopes for the majority of the season, but they faded down the stretch with a four-game losing streak. If Duke couldn’t make the postseason with quarterback Thaddeus Lewis, it will be difficult to do it without him.
10. NC State (5-7, 2-6) – Tom O’Brien’s career at NC State has been a series of one unfortunate event after another. There is no questioning his ability as a coach -- his resume speaks for itself. But once again, the Pack couldn’t overcome significant injuries, and the devastating news that their offensive coordinator, Dana Bible, had been diagnosed with cancer. They could, however, overcome UNC. Again.
11. Virginia (3-9, 2-6) – The Cavaliers ended the season they way they started -- in disappointment. Six straight losses, including in the season finale to rival Virginia, cost Al Groh his job. The last time the Cavaliers lost nine games in a season was in 1982.
12. Maryland (2-10, 1-7) – There wasn’t a bowl game, but coach Ralph Friedgen escaped a dreadful 2-10 season with his job instead. The one thing the Terps could celebrate this season was their still-baffling 24-21 win over ACC-runner up Clemson.
Twas twonights before bowl games and all through the house, a Hokie was ineligible and quiet as a mouse ...
- Virginia Tech cornerback Stephan Virgil is academically ineligible and will miss the Chick-fil-A Bowl.
- Mark Bradley of the AJC gave his best guess as to what Georgia Tech's Fab Four juniors might decide when it comes to the NFL draft.
- BC running back Montel Harris is the most dependable option the Eagles' offense has.
- There are some mind games going on at Clemson, and the Tigers are hoping it helps them out of their slump.
- Last home practice for Miami's seniors? "Woooo!"
- UNC's Marvin Austin is backing up his trash talking this year.
- NC State offensive coordinator Dana Bible will be out of the hospital and home for the holidays.
- ECU defensive coordinator Greg Hudson is expected to join Jimbo Fisher's staff at FSU.
I got a chance to catch up with NC State coach Tom O’Brien on Thursday, and in lieu of a Q&A today, I decided to go over some of his answers to the more pertinent issues facing the Wolfpack right now. Here’s O’Brien’s update on …
The status of offensive coordinator Dana Bible:
O’Brien said Bible, who was diagnosed with leukemia in late November, was doing well until he had a reaction to his medication this past weekend. O’Brien hasn’t talked to Bible, and he can’t visit him because he’s in isolation with a nearly nonexistent immune system. As of Tuesday, O’Brien spoke with Bible’s wife who said he was doing better.
The status of quarterback Russell Wilson:
Wilson will play baseball this spring, and likely won’t make a decision on his football future until he knows where his professional baseball career is headed. O’Brien said he thinks Wilson is leaning toward coming back to the football team, but doesn’t expect a final decision until after baseball season.
“If he goes out, and is a top pick in the draft, he’s got a decision to make,” O’Brien said. “He likes football now and his intention is to come back but I think we have to wait until after baseball to finalize it.”
O’Brien said that doesn’t throw his plans off track.
“That’s why we recruited (Mike) Glennon,” O’Brien said. “We’ve know this inevitability. … If baseball is in his future, that’s fine. Certainly the progression that’s set up is for Michael to be the quarterback. He will get every rep in the spring and will prepare for whatever we have to face next fall.”
On tailback Toney Baker's decision regarding the NFL:
Baker hasn’t made his decision yet, but O’Brien said that if he had to guess today, he would say Baker would leave and Wilson would stay.
“He’s going to sit down and weigh everything and make a decision,” O’Brien said. “I think he’s going to do it the right way, but if I were a betting man, I’d say Russell, yes, and Toney, no, -- today. That might change tomorrow, because I think Toney goes back and forth more than Russell does.”
I'll have more from my conversation with O'Brien next week.
[+] Enlarge
G Fiume/Getty ImagesTom O'Brien said he thinks QB Russell Wilson is leaning toward returning to the football team.
G Fiume/Getty ImagesTom O'Brien said he thinks QB Russell Wilson is leaning toward returning to the football team.O’Brien said Bible, who was diagnosed with leukemia in late November, was doing well until he had a reaction to his medication this past weekend. O’Brien hasn’t talked to Bible, and he can’t visit him because he’s in isolation with a nearly nonexistent immune system. As of Tuesday, O’Brien spoke with Bible’s wife who said he was doing better.
The status of quarterback Russell Wilson:
Wilson will play baseball this spring, and likely won’t make a decision on his football future until he knows where his professional baseball career is headed. O’Brien said he thinks Wilson is leaning toward coming back to the football team, but doesn’t expect a final decision until after baseball season.
“If he goes out, and is a top pick in the draft, he’s got a decision to make,” O’Brien said. “He likes football now and his intention is to come back but I think we have to wait until after baseball to finalize it.”
O’Brien said that doesn’t throw his plans off track.
“That’s why we recruited (Mike) Glennon,” O’Brien said. “We’ve know this inevitability. … If baseball is in his future, that’s fine. Certainly the progression that’s set up is for Michael to be the quarterback. He will get every rep in the spring and will prepare for whatever we have to face next fall.”
On tailback Toney Baker's decision regarding the NFL:
Baker hasn’t made his decision yet, but O’Brien said that if he had to guess today, he would say Baker would leave and Wilson would stay.
“He’s going to sit down and weigh everything and make a decision,” O’Brien said. “I think he’s going to do it the right way, but if I were a betting man, I’d say Russell, yes, and Toney, no, -- today. That might change tomorrow, because I think Toney goes back and forth more than Russell does.”
I'll have more from my conversation with O'Brien next week.
Coach Tom O’Brien said he had never experienced a more difficult season. It started with star linebacker Nate Irving’s scary car crash this past summer, which sidelined him for the entire season, and ended with the news that offensive coordinator Dana Bible had been diagnosed with leukemia prior to the Virginia Tech game.
A total of 12 players were lost to season-ending injuries, and the Pack (2-6, 5-7 ACC) suffered a 1-6 stretch that eliminated them from postseason play for the second time in O’Brien’s three seasons. The root of the problems were with the defense, where NC State ranked 99th in the country in scoring defense, allowing 31.17 points per game. The Pack were 106th in pass efficiency defense, and injuries forced the staff to use a different starting lineup in the secondary for at least three quarters of the season.
The two positive headlines for NC State this year came when tailback Toney Baker was granted a sixth year of eligibility, and when the season ended on a triumphant note with a win over rival North Carolina. NC State also earned a marquee nonconference win against Pittsburgh, which wound up playing for the Big East title.
Offensive MVP: Quarterback Russell Wilson – He completed 59.3 percent of his passes for 3,027 yards and 31 touchdowns. He threw just 11 interceptions.
Defensive MVP: Alan Michael Cash – He blocked one kick, forced a fumble and finished with 55 tackles, including 3.5 for loss and two sacks.
Turning point: In late June, Irving -- arguably the team’s top defensive player -- suffered a broken leg and a collapsed lung in a one-car crash. It was an emotional incident and a loss that set the tone for the entire defense, which struggled all season without their top player and leader.
What’s next: The coaching staff needs to continue to recruit and build depth so it's not in this position again, with virtually no upperclassmen to depend upon and too many young, inexperienced players forced into important roles. The staff also needs to find out whether Wilson plans on focusing on football or baseball, and whether Baker will enter the NFL draft.
A total of 12 players were lost to season-ending injuries, and the Pack (2-6, 5-7 ACC) suffered a 1-6 stretch that eliminated them from postseason play for the second time in O’Brien’s three seasons. The root of the problems were with the defense, where NC State ranked 99th in the country in scoring defense, allowing 31.17 points per game. The Pack were 106th in pass efficiency defense, and injuries forced the staff to use a different starting lineup in the secondary for at least three quarters of the season.
The two positive headlines for NC State this year came when tailback Toney Baker was granted a sixth year of eligibility, and when the season ended on a triumphant note with a win over rival North Carolina. NC State also earned a marquee nonconference win against Pittsburgh, which wound up playing for the Big East title.
Offensive MVP: Quarterback Russell Wilson – He completed 59.3 percent of his passes for 3,027 yards and 31 touchdowns. He threw just 11 interceptions.
Defensive MVP: Alan Michael Cash – He blocked one kick, forced a fumble and finished with 55 tackles, including 3.5 for loss and two sacks.
Turning point: In late June, Irving -- arguably the team’s top defensive player -- suffered a broken leg and a collapsed lung in a one-car crash. It was an emotional incident and a loss that set the tone for the entire defense, which struggled all season without their top player and leader.
What’s next: The coaching staff needs to continue to recruit and build depth so it's not in this position again, with virtually no upperclassmen to depend upon and too many young, inexperienced players forced into important roles. The staff also needs to find out whether Wilson plans on focusing on football or baseball, and whether Baker will enter the NFL draft.
The regular season is officially over, but the most important game in the conference remains. Saturday’s ACC championship will determine which team is the best, but here in the power rankings, Georgia Tech remains at the top for the sixth straight week.
Voters in the Associated Press and USA Today coaches’ polls decided to jump Virginia Tech over the Jackets, but that didn’t make sense to me. The Hokies’ win over a 3-9 Virginia team didn’t warrant the move, especially when Virginia Tech lost to Georgia Tech and North Carolina. Here’s how the rest of the power rankings look after the final week of conference play:
1. Georgia Tech (10-2, 7-1 ACC; LW: No. 1) – The Yellow Jackets stumbled against rival Georgia and dropped to No. 10 in the BCS standings. Defensively, the Jackets looked unimpressive, and offensively didn’t execute as well as they had been. Still, this team is loaded with talent and will represent the conference well in the title game.
2. Virginia Tech (9-3, 6-2; LW: No. 3) – The Hokies ended the regular season on a four-game winning streak and are in position for one of the top tier bowls. Ryan Williams can’t be stopped, and he was a big reason they took home the Commonwealth Cup. Again.
3. Clemson (8-4, 6-2; LW: No. 2) – The Tigers’ offense disappeared against South Carolina, and while the Gamecocks’ defense was one of the best Clemson had seen all season, there is still room for improvement heading into the title game.
4. Miami (9-3, 5-3; LW: No. 4) – The Canes were one of the few ranked ACC teams to avoid an upset this weekend, and deserve credit for it. Quarterback Jacory Harris is ready to cap off an impressive first year as the Canes’ starter with a top-notch bowl, but will Miami be among the first teams selected?
5. North Carolina (8-4, 4-4; LW: No. 5) – The Tar Heels squandered their opportunity to move up the pecking order in the bowl selection process with their loss to NC State, and suffered another agonizing defeat to their in-state rival in the process. A bowl game is still a successful season, though, considering how it started for the Heels.
6. Boston College (8-4, 5-3; LW: No. 7) – It’s not always pretty, but the Eagles have found enough ways to win to be considered among the top half of the ACC this year. Not bad for a team predicted to finish last in its division.
7. Florida State (6-6, 4-4; LW: No. 6) – It got ugly early in the Swamp on Saturday, and the Noles were no match for the No. 1 team in the country. A shakeup in Tallahassee is expected soon, and it could be happening behind closed doors this morning. The only thing we know for sure is that Bobby Bowden wants to come back.
8. Wake Forest (5-7, 3-5; LW: No. 9) – The season finale against Duke was the only chance they had left to salvage their season, and with the help of quarterback Riley Skinner, who played with everything he had in a record-setting performance, the Deacs were able to go out on a winning note.
9. Duke (5-7, 3-5; LW: No. 8) – It was a disappointing end to a remarkable career for quarterback Thaddeus Lewis, who wanted so desperately to take his team to a bowl game this year, but considering where the program has been and where it ended with Lewis at quarterback, it was undoubtedly a successful career.
10. NC State (5-7, 2-6; LW: No. 11) – The Pack used the emotion of the news of offensive coordinator Dana Bible’s leukemia in an inspirational way and beat the Tar Heels for the third straight year under coach Tom O’Brien. If the players remember nothing else from a season they’d most likely prefer to forget, they’ll remember they beat UNC.
11. Virginia (3-9, 2-6; LW: No. 10) – It was the final game of coach Al Groh’s career, as he was fired on Sunday after losing to in-state rival Virginia Tech. A coaching search has begun, though odds are this was a long time coming and athletic director Craig Littlepage already has a few names in mind.
12. Maryland (2-10, 1-7; LW: No. 12) – Odds are Terps’ fans want their inconsistent reputation back, as this is the fourth straight week Maryland has landed at the bottom of the power rankings. It was an abysmal season under coach Ralph Friedgen, whose future will now be evaluated. Much like Bowden, though, Friedgen isn’t ready to call it quits yet.
Voters in the Associated Press and USA Today coaches’ polls decided to jump Virginia Tech over the Jackets, but that didn’t make sense to me. The Hokies’ win over a 3-9 Virginia team didn’t warrant the move, especially when Virginia Tech lost to Georgia Tech and North Carolina. Here’s how the rest of the power rankings look after the final week of conference play:
1. Georgia Tech (10-2, 7-1 ACC; LW: No. 1) – The Yellow Jackets stumbled against rival Georgia and dropped to No. 10 in the BCS standings. Defensively, the Jackets looked unimpressive, and offensively didn’t execute as well as they had been. Still, this team is loaded with talent and will represent the conference well in the title game.
2. Virginia Tech (9-3, 6-2; LW: No. 3) – The Hokies ended the regular season on a four-game winning streak and are in position for one of the top tier bowls. Ryan Williams can’t be stopped, and he was a big reason they took home the Commonwealth Cup. Again.
3. Clemson (8-4, 6-2; LW: No. 2) – The Tigers’ offense disappeared against South Carolina, and while the Gamecocks’ defense was one of the best Clemson had seen all season, there is still room for improvement heading into the title game.
4. Miami (9-3, 5-3; LW: No. 4) – The Canes were one of the few ranked ACC teams to avoid an upset this weekend, and deserve credit for it. Quarterback Jacory Harris is ready to cap off an impressive first year as the Canes’ starter with a top-notch bowl, but will Miami be among the first teams selected?
5. North Carolina (8-4, 4-4; LW: No. 5) – The Tar Heels squandered their opportunity to move up the pecking order in the bowl selection process with their loss to NC State, and suffered another agonizing defeat to their in-state rival in the process. A bowl game is still a successful season, though, considering how it started for the Heels.
6. Boston College (8-4, 5-3; LW: No. 7) – It’s not always pretty, but the Eagles have found enough ways to win to be considered among the top half of the ACC this year. Not bad for a team predicted to finish last in its division.
7. Florida State (6-6, 4-4; LW: No. 6) – It got ugly early in the Swamp on Saturday, and the Noles were no match for the No. 1 team in the country. A shakeup in Tallahassee is expected soon, and it could be happening behind closed doors this morning. The only thing we know for sure is that Bobby Bowden wants to come back.
8. Wake Forest (5-7, 3-5; LW: No. 9) – The season finale against Duke was the only chance they had left to salvage their season, and with the help of quarterback Riley Skinner, who played with everything he had in a record-setting performance, the Deacs were able to go out on a winning note.
9. Duke (5-7, 3-5; LW: No. 8) – It was a disappointing end to a remarkable career for quarterback Thaddeus Lewis, who wanted so desperately to take his team to a bowl game this year, but considering where the program has been and where it ended with Lewis at quarterback, it was undoubtedly a successful career.
10. NC State (5-7, 2-6; LW: No. 11) – The Pack used the emotion of the news of offensive coordinator Dana Bible’s leukemia in an inspirational way and beat the Tar Heels for the third straight year under coach Tom O’Brien. If the players remember nothing else from a season they’d most likely prefer to forget, they’ll remember they beat UNC.
11. Virginia (3-9, 2-6; LW: No. 10) – It was the final game of coach Al Groh’s career, as he was fired on Sunday after losing to in-state rival Virginia Tech. A coaching search has begun, though odds are this was a long time coming and athletic director Craig Littlepage already has a few names in mind.
12. Maryland (2-10, 1-7; LW: No. 12) – Odds are Terps’ fans want their inconsistent reputation back, as this is the fourth straight week Maryland has landed at the bottom of the power rankings. It was an abysmal season under coach Ralph Friedgen, whose future will now be evaluated. Much like Bowden, though, Friedgen isn’t ready to call it quits yet.
What we learned in the ACC: Week 13
November, 29, 2009
11/29/09
10:55
AM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
FSU offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher reminded us earlier this week that “ignorance is bliss.” He couldn’t have been more accurate this week in the ACC, as conference fans saw some ugly truths with three of five ranked teams falling. Here’s a look at what we learned in the final week of the regular season:
The ACC’s best isn’t good enough to beat the SEC’s average. Clemson and Georgia Tech -- the two best teams the ACC has to offer this year, both lost to 7-5 SEC teams that don’t have winning records against their conference opponents. Both fan bases scoffed at the notion their teams would look ahead to the ACC championship game because both schools take their respective rivalry games so seriously. Well, if that’s the case, then the only other explanation is simply they weren’t the better teams this past weekend. Three of the ACC’s five ranked teams lost on Saturday, and all of the losses were upsets.
Change is imminent at Florida State. After the embarrassing 37-10 loss to Florida, FSU coach Bobby Bowden said he had to do some soul searching. Although he wants to return for a final year to coach, even Bowden seemed truly defeated for the first time in his career following the loss at Florida. ESPN.com’s Mark Schlabach reported that a decision on Bowden’s future could come as early as Monday or Tuesday. The only question is whether or not he's really the one to make that decision.
It can’t get any worse for Al Groh and Ralph Friedgen. Both were emotional in their postgame news conferences following their respective losses. For the Terps, it was their seventh straight loss and a school-record 10 defeats, but Friedgen said he didn’t want to quit on his players. Groh doesn’t seem to have that choice, and considering he read a poem, “The Guy in the Glass,” to the media and his players following the loss, he seems to know it. It was Virginia’s first nine-loss season since 1982.
Tom O’Brien > Butch Davis in rivalry. It doesn’t matter that UNC is going bowling and NC State is not -- not in this rivalry game, where the only thing that matters is the final score, and for the third straight year, the Wolfpack came out on top. It was only NC State’s second conference victory of the season, and it came against a nationally ranked Carolina team with a much better defense. O'Brien, though, without his offensive coordinator and good friend Dana Bible, found a way to get it done and UNC helped with its mistakes.
The ACC championship is truly anyone’s game. After the subpar performances by both Clemson and Georgia Tech on Saturday, both programs have room for improvement heading into Saturday’s title game. Clemson’s offense was stagnant against South Carolina, and Georgia Tech’s defense rolled out the red carpet for Georgia’s running game. Neither team looked as if it was the clear frontrunner for this year’s ACC title.
The ACC’s best isn’t good enough to beat the SEC’s average. Clemson and Georgia Tech -- the two best teams the ACC has to offer this year, both lost to 7-5 SEC teams that don’t have winning records against their conference opponents. Both fan bases scoffed at the notion their teams would look ahead to the ACC championship game because both schools take their respective rivalry games so seriously. Well, if that’s the case, then the only other explanation is simply they weren’t the better teams this past weekend. Three of the ACC’s five ranked teams lost on Saturday, and all of the losses were upsets.
Change is imminent at Florida State. After the embarrassing 37-10 loss to Florida, FSU coach Bobby Bowden said he had to do some soul searching. Although he wants to return for a final year to coach, even Bowden seemed truly defeated for the first time in his career following the loss at Florida. ESPN.com’s Mark Schlabach reported that a decision on Bowden’s future could come as early as Monday or Tuesday. The only question is whether or not he's really the one to make that decision.
It can’t get any worse for Al Groh and Ralph Friedgen. Both were emotional in their postgame news conferences following their respective losses. For the Terps, it was their seventh straight loss and a school-record 10 defeats, but Friedgen said he didn’t want to quit on his players. Groh doesn’t seem to have that choice, and considering he read a poem, “The Guy in the Glass,” to the media and his players following the loss, he seems to know it. It was Virginia’s first nine-loss season since 1982.
Tom O’Brien > Butch Davis in rivalry. It doesn’t matter that UNC is going bowling and NC State is not -- not in this rivalry game, where the only thing that matters is the final score, and for the third straight year, the Wolfpack came out on top. It was only NC State’s second conference victory of the season, and it came against a nationally ranked Carolina team with a much better defense. O'Brien, though, without his offensive coordinator and good friend Dana Bible, found a way to get it done and UNC helped with its mistakes.
The ACC championship is truly anyone’s game. After the subpar performances by both Clemson and Georgia Tech on Saturday, both programs have room for improvement heading into Saturday’s title game. Clemson’s offense was stagnant against South Carolina, and Georgia Tech’s defense rolled out the red carpet for Georgia’s running game. Neither team looked as if it was the clear frontrunner for this year’s ACC title.
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.
