ACC: Donte Paige-Moss
The official invite list for the NFL combine is out. Every school but Duke is represented, and there are a total of 43 former players from the conference who will participate, including Miami's entire starting lineup from 2011. Well, ok, not really, but it's a pretty big hit for the Canes. Best of luck to all of these guys at the next level.
Here are your ACC representatives:
BOSTON COLLEGE (1)
Here are your ACC representatives:
BOSTON COLLEGE (1)
- Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
- Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson
- Andre Branch, DE, Clemson
- Antoine McClain, OG, Clemson
- Rennie Moore, DT, Clemson
- Coty Sensabaugh, DB, Clemson
- Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson
- Nigel Bradham, LB, Florida State
- Andrew Datko, OT, Florida State
- Mike Harris, CB, Florida State
- Shawn Powell, P, Florida State
- Beau Reliford, TE, Florida State
- Zebrie Sanders, OT, Florida State
- Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech
- Davin Meggett, RB, Maryland
- Travis Benjamin, WR, Miami
- Marcus Forston, DT, Miami
- Jacory Harris, QB, Miami
- Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
- Sean Spence, LB, Miami
- Tommy Streeter, WR, Miami
- Olivier Vernon, DE, Miami
- Brandon Washington, OT, Miami
- Charles Brown, CB, UNC
- Zach Brown, LB, UNC
- Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina
- Dwight Jones, WR, UNC
- Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
- Tydreke Powell, DT, UNC
- Audie Cole, LB, NC State
- T.J. Graham, WR, NC State
- Markus Kuhn, DT, NC State
- Terrell Manning, LB, NC State
- J.R. Sweezy, DT, NC State
- Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
- Danny Coale, WR, Virginia Tech
- Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
- David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
- Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
- Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
- Chris Givens, WR, Wake Forest
- Joe Looney, OG, Wake Forest
- Cyhl Quarles, S, Wake Forest
- Kyle Wilber, LB, Wake Forest
Game on, Virginia Tech ...
- A Sugar Bowl win could mean even bigger things for the Hokies' place in college football.
- Frank Beamer is living proof that sticking with the right coach pays dividends.
- Virginia Tech's reputation will be on the line tonight.
- Here's a look at what SI.com has dubbed the "Validation Bowl."
- Here are some keys to tonight's games.
- Here's one vote in favor of the Hokies tonight.
- When it comes to experience, Beamer has the edge on Brady Hoke.
- Virginia quarterback Michael Rocco is already talking about more good things to come next season.
- North Carolina defensive end Donte Paige-Moss has decided to leave early for the NFL.
- FSU's defense is one reason the Noles could be a preseason top-10 team for 2012.
Report: Paige-Moss to enter NFL draft
January, 2, 2012
Jan 2
6:11
PM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
North Carolina junior defensive end Donte Paige-Moss has informed the school of his intention to enter the 2012 NFL draft, according to TarHeelBlue.com. Paige-Moss played in all 13 games in 2011 and posted 29 tackles, including four tackles for losses and two sacks. He also broke up two passes and had two quarterback hurries.
In Carolina's loss to Missouri in the Independence Bowl on Dec. 26, Paige-Moss tore the ACL in his right knee.
North Carolina quarterback Bryn Renner had successful surgery on his left ankle to remove an anterior bone spur and a posterior accessory bone Wednesday, according to the school. Renner is expected to make a full recovery. His status will be updated at the beginning of spring practice.
Renner’s ankle condition became an issue in mid-July, approximately three weeks before the start of UNC’s training camp. After consulting with the UNC sports medicine staff, Renner and his family made the decision to play with a hinged ankle brace and postpone surgery until after the season. In his first season as a starter, Renner completed 239 of 350 attempts for 3,086 yards and a single-season school record 26 touchdowns.
In other injury-related news for UNC, sophomore linebacker Darius Lipford tore the ACL in his left knee and junior Donte Paige-Moss tore the ACL in his right knee in the Independence Bowl. Both players will miss spring practice. A further update on their status will be available after surgeries are performed in the coming weeks.
Renner’s ankle condition became an issue in mid-July, approximately three weeks before the start of UNC’s training camp. After consulting with the UNC sports medicine staff, Renner and his family made the decision to play with a hinged ankle brace and postpone surgery until after the season. In his first season as a starter, Renner completed 239 of 350 attempts for 3,086 yards and a single-season school record 26 touchdowns.
In other injury-related news for UNC, sophomore linebacker Darius Lipford tore the ACL in his left knee and junior Donte Paige-Moss tore the ACL in his right knee in the Independence Bowl. Both players will miss spring practice. A further update on their status will be available after surgeries are performed in the coming weeks.
No. 1. Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
2010 stats: As a sophomore, Kuechly led the nation in tackles (183) and solo stops (110). He has registered 10 or more tackles in 22 consecutive games, the longest active streak in the nation. Last year he had 10.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, three interceptions, three fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles.
Previous ranking: No. 4
Making the case for Kuechly: He has already made a case for being one of the best defenders in the country, and he did it in just two seasons. Recognized last year as a consensus All-American, Kuechly reached the 200 tackle mark faster than any other player in school history. He is the only player in school history to reach 300 tackles in his first two seasons, and is a candidate for this year’s ACC Defensive Player of the Year. He is more than just a tackle machine, though. He is an instinctive player who finds the ball and continues to put in the work to become even better. He can make game-changing plays and find the ball, and is the heart and face of the Boston College defense.
No. 2 Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina
No. 3 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 4 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 5. Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 6 Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
No. 7 Andrew Datko, LT, Florida State
No. 8 Sean Spence, LB, Miami
No. 9 Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
No. 10 David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
No. 11 Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina
No. 12 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
No. 13 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 14 Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
No. 15 Sean Renfree, QB, Duke
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
No. 18 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 19 Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
No. 20 Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
No. 21 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 22 Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
No. 23 Omoregie Uzzi, OG, Georgia Tech
No. 24 Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
No. 25 EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
2010 stats: As a sophomore, Kuechly led the nation in tackles (183) and solo stops (110). He has registered 10 or more tackles in 22 consecutive games, the longest active streak in the nation. Last year he had 10.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, three interceptions, three fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles.
[+] Enlarge
Jason O. Watson/US PresswireBoston College linebacker Luke Kuechly led the nation with 183 tackles last season.
Jason O. Watson/US PresswireBoston College linebacker Luke Kuechly led the nation with 183 tackles last season.Making the case for Kuechly: He has already made a case for being one of the best defenders in the country, and he did it in just two seasons. Recognized last year as a consensus All-American, Kuechly reached the 200 tackle mark faster than any other player in school history. He is the only player in school history to reach 300 tackles in his first two seasons, and is a candidate for this year’s ACC Defensive Player of the Year. He is more than just a tackle machine, though. He is an instinctive player who finds the ball and continues to put in the work to become even better. He can make game-changing plays and find the ball, and is the heart and face of the Boston College defense.
No. 2 Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina
No. 3 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 4 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 5. Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 6 Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
No. 7 Andrew Datko, LT, Florida State
No. 8 Sean Spence, LB, Miami
No. 9 Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
No. 10 David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
No. 11 Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina
No. 12 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
No. 13 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 14 Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
No. 15 Sean Renfree, QB, Duke
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
No. 18 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 19 Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
No. 20 Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
No. 21 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 22 Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
No. 23 Omoregie Uzzi, OG, Georgia Tech
No. 24 Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
No. 25 EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
No. 3. Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
2010 stats: He started 13 games and finished with 39 tackles, nine interceptions, and eight passes broken up. He also had 19 punt returns for 239 yards and a touchdown, and nine kick returns for 190 yards. He racked up 110 yards on interception returns.
Previous ranking: No. 7
Making the case for Hosley: His numbers make a pretty good case themselves, but here goes: After leading the nation in interceptions last year, Hosley maintained a strong work ethic this offseason and took on a leadership role. He’s a good tackler who is a great ball handler and has great instincts, and he tied a school season record for interceptions that was set in 1967. He’s versatile enough to help the team as a punt returner, and as a DB he takes advantage of almost every opportunity that comes his way.
No. 4 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 5. Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 6 Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
No. 7 Andrew Datko, LT, Florida State
No. 8 Sean Spence, LB, Miami
No. 9 Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
No. 10 David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
No. 11 Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina
No. 12 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
No. 13 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 14 Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
No. 15 Sean Renfree, QB, Duke
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
No. 18 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 19 Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
No. 20 Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
No. 21 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 22 Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
No. 23 Omoregie Uzzi, OG, Georgia Tech
No. 24 Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
No. 25 EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
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AP Photo/Steve HelberVirginia Tech cornerback Jayron Hosley led the nation in interceptions.
AP Photo/Steve HelberVirginia Tech cornerback Jayron Hosley led the nation in interceptions.Previous ranking: No. 7
Making the case for Hosley: His numbers make a pretty good case themselves, but here goes: After leading the nation in interceptions last year, Hosley maintained a strong work ethic this offseason and took on a leadership role. He’s a good tackler who is a great ball handler and has great instincts, and he tied a school season record for interceptions that was set in 1967. He’s versatile enough to help the team as a punt returner, and as a DB he takes advantage of almost every opportunity that comes his way.
No. 4 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 5. Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 6 Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
No. 7 Andrew Datko, LT, Florida State
No. 8 Sean Spence, LB, Miami
No. 9 Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
No. 10 David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
No. 11 Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina
No. 12 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
No. 13 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 14 Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
No. 15 Sean Renfree, QB, Duke
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
No. 18 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 19 Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
No. 20 Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
No. 21 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 22 Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
No. 23 Omoregie Uzzi, OG, Georgia Tech
No. 24 Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
No. 25 EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
No. 4. Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
2010 stats: He ranked sixth nationally in total sacks with 13.5, and was tied for fourth nationally with 21.5 tackles for loss -- the third-best season in FSU history. He also had two forced fumbles, two pass breakups, four quarterback hurries, and finished with 63 total tackles.
Previous ranking: No. 12
Making the case for Jenkins: He had one of the best seasons in school history last year and he was only a true sophomore and first-year starter. He should only be better this fall, and that's scary-good. Jenkins has good instincts, reacts well to the ball, and is a natural pass-rusher. He was the top contributor to Florida State’s nation-leading 48 sacks last year, one of the Noles’ biggest areas of improvement last season. He had two-sack games five times last season, and was recognized as the team’s MVP at the annual football banquet.
No. 5 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 6 Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
No. 7 Andrew Datko, LT, Florida State
No. 8 Sean Spence, LB, Miami
No. 9 Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
No. 10 David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
No. 11 Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina
No. 12 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
No. 13 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 14 Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
No. 15 Sean Renfree, QB, Duke
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
No. 18 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 19 Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
No. 20 Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
No. 21 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 22 Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
No. 23 Omoregie Uzzi, OG, Georgia Tech
No. 24 Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
No. 25 EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
2010 stats: He ranked sixth nationally in total sacks with 13.5, and was tied for fourth nationally with 21.5 tackles for loss -- the third-best season in FSU history. He also had two forced fumbles, two pass breakups, four quarterback hurries, and finished with 63 total tackles.
Previous ranking: No. 12
Making the case for Jenkins: He had one of the best seasons in school history last year and he was only a true sophomore and first-year starter. He should only be better this fall, and that's scary-good. Jenkins has good instincts, reacts well to the ball, and is a natural pass-rusher. He was the top contributor to Florida State’s nation-leading 48 sacks last year, one of the Noles’ biggest areas of improvement last season. He had two-sack games five times last season, and was recognized as the team’s MVP at the annual football banquet.
No. 5 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 6 Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
No. 7 Andrew Datko, LT, Florida State
No. 8 Sean Spence, LB, Miami
No. 9 Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
No. 10 David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
No. 11 Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina
No. 12 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
No. 13 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 14 Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
No. 15 Sean Renfree, QB, Duke
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
No. 18 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 19 Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
No. 20 Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
No. 21 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 22 Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
No. 23 Omoregie Uzzi, OG, Georgia Tech
No. 24 Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
No. 25 EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
No. 5. Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
2010 stats: He started 11 games before injuring his knee against Virginia. Despite the injury, Harris led the ACC and ranked 16th in the country with 103.6 yards per game. He racked up eight 100-yard games and had six in a row before his injury. He finished with 1,243 yards and eight touchdowns on 269 carries. He also caught 18 passes for 112 yards and a touchdown.
Previous ranking: No. 17
Making the case for Harris: He is a record-setter who has made his mark as one of the most productive running backs in the ACC. He is the school’s leader in carries (756) and 100-yard games (21) and ranks second at BC in rushing yards (3,600) and is third in touchdowns (27). He holds the ACC record for the most rushing yards through his junior year and enters this season as the ACC’s active leader in rushing yards and carries. What he’s done for the Eagles’ otherwise inept offense can’t be measured. At a program where the quarterback position has been a question in recent years, Harris has easily been the most dependable option on offense.
No. 6 Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
No. 7 Andrew Datko, LT, Florida State
No. 8 Sean Spence, LB, Miami
No. 9 Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
No. 10 David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
No. 11 Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina
No. 12 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
No. 13 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 14 Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
No. 15 Sean Renfree, QB, Duke
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
No. 18 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 19 Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
No. 20 Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
No. 21 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 22 Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
No. 23 Omoregie Uzzi, OG, Georgia Tech
No. 24 Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
No. 25 EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
2010 stats: He started 11 games before injuring his knee against Virginia. Despite the injury, Harris led the ACC and ranked 16th in the country with 103.6 yards per game. He racked up eight 100-yard games and had six in a row before his injury. He finished with 1,243 yards and eight touchdowns on 269 carries. He also caught 18 passes for 112 yards and a touchdown.
Previous ranking: No. 17
Making the case for Harris: He is a record-setter who has made his mark as one of the most productive running backs in the ACC. He is the school’s leader in carries (756) and 100-yard games (21) and ranks second at BC in rushing yards (3,600) and is third in touchdowns (27). He holds the ACC record for the most rushing yards through his junior year and enters this season as the ACC’s active leader in rushing yards and carries. What he’s done for the Eagles’ otherwise inept offense can’t be measured. At a program where the quarterback position has been a question in recent years, Harris has easily been the most dependable option on offense.
No. 6 Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
No. 7 Andrew Datko, LT, Florida State
No. 8 Sean Spence, LB, Miami
No. 9 Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
No. 10 David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
No. 11 Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina
No. 12 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
No. 13 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 14 Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
No. 15 Sean Renfree, QB, Duke
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
No. 18 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 19 Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
No. 20 Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
No. 21 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 22 Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
No. 23 Omoregie Uzzi, OG, Georgia Tech
No. 24 Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
No. 25 EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
No. 6. Donte Paige-Moss, DE, UNC
2010 stats: He started 12 of 13 games he played in last year, and finished the regular season with 49 tackles, 13.5 tackles for losses of 77 yards, 7.0 sacks for 57 yards, and one pass breakup. He ranked second on the team in tackles for loss and sacks and was seventh in the ACC in sacks.
Previously ranked: Not ranked.
Making the case for Paige-Moss: He has the skills to be one of the country’s top pass-rushers this fall. He played exceptionally well in the second half of last season, when he recorded 10.5 of his 13.5 tackles for loss. Carolina fans saw his game-changing potential in the Music City Bowl win over Tennessee when he posted six tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, one forced fumble and one blocked kick. He blocked an extra point in the fourth quarter, which kept Tennessee's lead at three. He was only a sophomore last year and made his first career start when he lined up against LSU in the season opener. Now more experienced, Paige-Moss could be on the brink of a breakout season.
No. 7 Andrew Datko, LT, Florida State
No. 8 Sean Spence, LB, Miami
No. 9 Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
No. 10 David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
No. 11 Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina
No. 12 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
No. 13 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 14 Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
No. 15 Sean Renfree, QB, Duke
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
No. 18 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 19 Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
No. 20 Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
No. 21 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 22 Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
No. 23 Omoregie Uzzi, OG, Georgia Tech
No. 24 Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
No. 25 EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
2010 stats: He started 12 of 13 games he played in last year, and finished the regular season with 49 tackles, 13.5 tackles for losses of 77 yards, 7.0 sacks for 57 yards, and one pass breakup. He ranked second on the team in tackles for loss and sacks and was seventh in the ACC in sacks.
Previously ranked: Not ranked.
Making the case for Paige-Moss: He has the skills to be one of the country’s top pass-rushers this fall. He played exceptionally well in the second half of last season, when he recorded 10.5 of his 13.5 tackles for loss. Carolina fans saw his game-changing potential in the Music City Bowl win over Tennessee when he posted six tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, one forced fumble and one blocked kick. He blocked an extra point in the fourth quarter, which kept Tennessee's lead at three. He was only a sophomore last year and made his first career start when he lined up against LSU in the season opener. Now more experienced, Paige-Moss could be on the brink of a breakout season.
No. 7 Andrew Datko, LT, Florida State
No. 8 Sean Spence, LB, Miami
No. 9 Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
No. 10 David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
No. 11 Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina
No. 12 Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
No. 13 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 14 Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
No. 15 Sean Renfree, QB, Duke
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia
No. 18 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 19 Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
No. 20 Lamar Miller, RB, Miami
No. 21 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 22 Jarrett Boykin, WR, Virginia Tech
No. 23 Omoregie Uzzi, OG, Georgia Tech
No. 24 Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
No. 25 EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
Heading into the 2010 season, there was an abundance of talent at the running back position in the ACC, as five 1,000-yard rushers returned for the first time in league history. This season, the ACC is deep and talented at several positions, but not so much so that there is one overwhelming strength. Offensively, the receivers are probably the deepest, most proven group, and defensively, the defensive ends could be the most fearsome group.
Which one, though, will be the position of power in the ACC this fall?
Defensive ends:The ACC has earned a reputation as a defensive conference, and these players will do their best to uphold that tradition. Brandon Jenkins at Florida State and Quinton Coples at North Carolina should be two of the best in the country, but they’re hardly alone in their pass rushing abilities. Izaan Cross at Georgia Tech is a name ACC fans will know by the end of the season. He’s underrated and has a chance to finish the season with all-conference accolades. His teammate, Jason Peters, can do the same. Together they should help bring noticeable improvement to the Jackets’ defense this year.
North Carolina also has Donte Paige-Moss at the other end position, another player who has already caught the attention of NFL scouts. Adewale Ojomo and Olivier Vernon at Miami are two veteran standouts, and NC State’s Jeff Rieskamp and Virginia’s Cam Johnson are also among the best in the league. Andre Branch at Clemson should get more recognition this fall, especially with the early departure of Da’Quan Bowers, and Max Holloway at Boston College hasn’t reached his potential yet but began to make a name for himself last season.
There aren’t a lot of veteran quarterbacks in the ACC this year, but there are plenty of defensive ends ready to give the rookies a not-so-warm welcome.
Which one, though, will be the position of power in the ACC this fall?
North Carolina also has Donte Paige-Moss at the other end position, another player who has already caught the attention of NFL scouts. Adewale Ojomo and Olivier Vernon at Miami are two veteran standouts, and NC State’s Jeff Rieskamp and Virginia’s Cam Johnson are also among the best in the league. Andre Branch at Clemson should get more recognition this fall, especially with the early departure of Da’Quan Bowers, and Max Holloway at Boston College hasn’t reached his potential yet but began to make a name for himself last season.
There aren’t a lot of veteran quarterbacks in the ACC this year, but there are plenty of defensive ends ready to give the rookies a not-so-warm welcome.
Ted Hendricks award watch list announced
August, 9, 2011
8/09/11
2:39
PM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
The ACC had seven candidates among the 35 nominated for this year's Ted Hendricks Award, which is given to the nation's top defensive end:
Clemson's Da'Quan Bowers won this award last year, and in 2007, Virginia's Chris Long was the recipient.
- Andre Branch, Clemson
- Quinton Coples, North Carolina
- Izaan Cross, Georgia Tech
- Brandon Jenkins, Florida State
- Cam Johnson, Virginia
- Donte Paige-Moss, North Carolina
- Olivier Vernon, Miami
Clemson's Da'Quan Bowers won this award last year, and in 2007, Virginia's Chris Long was the recipient.
ESPN Insider Chris Sprow recently ranked the top 10 teams in the country loaded with the most NFL prospects, and two ACC teams appeared on his list.
Any guesses?
Hint: They're both in the Coastal Division.
No. 4 North Carolina -- Here's an excerpt from what Sprow had to say about the Tar Heels:
Any guesses?
Hint: They're both in the Coastal Division.
No. 4 North Carolina -- Here's an excerpt from what Sprow had to say about the Tar Heels:
The Butch Davis exit isn't pretty but similar to the way he left Miami (look up this roster), there's a lot to work with. The defense features No. 2 overall prospect Quinton Coples, who should bookend a terrifying pass rush with junior DE Donte Paige-Moss. ... Almost as much talent as they had sit out last year.No. 10 Miami -- Sprow's take:
Ray-Ray Armstrong could be the top safety off the board next spring if he wants to come out, and Marcus Forston is also on the Big Board. If he adds consistency, he'll rise. Sean Spence is a tweener (OLB/S) listed at outside linebacker, but has pro potential, and the Canes also have a guard prospect in Brandon Washington.
PINEHURST, N. C. -- Despite the ongoing presence of an NCAA mushroom cloud over the North Carolina program, coach Butch Davis was still able to sign another quality recruiting class last winter.
The star of that class looks like junior-college defensive tackle Sylvester Williams, according to a couple of his teammates. The 6-foot-3, 320-pound Williams almost never made it this far, working a job making radiator parts for large trucks out of high school before giving football another try at Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College.
After starring at Coffeyville, Williams enrolled at North Carolina in time for spring practice and made an immediate impression.
"I think he'll make a huge impact," said offensive lineman Jonathan Cooper. "He has moves after moves."
Fellow defensive lineman Tydreke Powell said Williams impressed him with more than just his on-field talent. He also likes his off-field dedication.
One February Saturday morning, Powell got a call from Williams at 8 a.m. Powell suspected trouble. Turns out, Williams wanted a workout partner.
"He said, 'Let's go work. We can't be the best D-tackles in the country if we're not working,' " Powell recalled.
The two are now roommates, and along with ends Quinton Coples (10 sacks last year) and Donte Paige-Moss (seven sacks) comprise one of the best defensive lines in the country. And unlike last year, when the Tar Heels played without a slew of suspended players who violated NCAA rules, they shouldn't be short-handed.
The members of the National College Football Awards Association unveiled their preseason watch lists over a 13-day period concluding with the Walter Camp Award's list today. Fifteen of the association's 21 awards selected a preseason watch list, and I've compiled your ACC candidates here:
WALTER CAMP PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARD
WALTER CAMP PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARD
- Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina
- Jayron Hosley, DB, Virginia Tech
- Brandon Jenkins, DT, Florida State
- Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
- Ray-Ray Armstrong, Miami
- Donnie Fletcher, Boston College
- Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech
- Chase Minnifield, Virginia
- Greg Reid, Florida State
- Xavier Rhodes, Florida State
- Kenny Tate, Maryland
- Nigel Bradham, LB, Florida State
- Jaymes Brooks, G, Virginia Tech
- Audie Cole, LB, NC State
- Jonathan Cooper, G, North Carolina
- Quinton Coples, OT, Florida State
- Blake DeChristopher, OT, Virginia Tech
- Marcus Forston, DT, Miami
- Dalton Freeman, C, Clemson
- Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
- Cam Johnson, DT, Virginia
- Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
- Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
- Tydreke Powell, DT, North Carolina
- Sean Spence, LB, Miami
- Bruce Taylor, LB, Virginia Tech
- Joe Vellano, DT, Maryland
- Brandon Washington, G, Miami
- Dalton Freeman, Clemson
- Cam Holland, North Carolina
- Tyler Horn, Miami
- Brian Moore, Duke
- Nigel Bradham, Florida State
- Zach Brown, North Carolina
- Ramon Buchanan, Miami
- Audie Cole, NC State
- Luke Kuechly, Boston College
- Kevin Reddick, North Carolina
- Sean Spence, Miami
- Kenny Tate, Maryland
- Bruce Taylor, Virginia Tech
- Andre Ellington, Clemson
- Montel Harris, Boston College
- Davin Meggett, Maryland
- Lamar Miller, Miami
- David Wilson, Virginia Tech
- Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
- Nigel Bradham, LB, Florida State
- Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina
- Donnie Fletcher, CB, Boston College
- Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
- Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
- Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
- Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
- Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
- Kevin Reddick, LB, North Carolina
- Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
- Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
- Sean Spence, LB, Miami
- Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
- Bruce Taylor, LB, Virginia Tech
- Travis Benjamin, Miami
- Jarrett Boykin, Virginia Tech
- Kris Burd, Virginia
- Chris Givens, Wake Forest
- DeAndre Hopkins, Clemson
- Dwight Jones, North Carolina
- Bobby Swigert, Boston College
- Donovan Varner, Duke
- Conner Vernon, Duke
- Casey Barth, North Carolina
- Nate Freese, Boston College
- Dustin Hopkins, Florida State
- Will Snyderwine, Duke
- Dawson Zimmerman, Clemson
- Dwayne Allen, Clemson
- George Bryan, NC State
- Cooper Helfet, Duke
- Chris Pantale, Boston College
- Colter Phillips, Virginia
- Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
- Mike Glennon, QB, NC State
- Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
- EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
- Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
- David Wilson, RB, Virginia Tech
- Ray-Ray Armstrong, S, Miami
- Nigel Bradham, LB, Florida State
- Zach Brown, LB, North Carolina
- Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina
- Marcus Forston, DT, Miami
- Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
- Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
- Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
- Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
- Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
- Tydreke Powell, DT, North Carolina
- Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
- Sean Spence, OLB, Miami
- Kenny Tate, LB, Maryland
- Bruce Taylor, LB, Virginia Tech
- Andrew Datko, OT, Florida State
- Blake DeChristopher, OT, Virginia Tech
- Marcus Forston, DT, Miami
- Dalton Freeman, C, Clemson
- Tydreke Powell, DT, North Carolina
- Omoregie Uzzi, OG, Georgia Tech
- Brandon Washington, OG, Miami
- EJ Manuel, Florida State
- Danny O'Brien, Maryland
- Sean Renfree, Duke
The Rimington Trophy watch list was released today, but I wanted to catch you up on two more that were released this week, the Jim Thorpe Award and the Rotary Lombardi Award.
Eligibility for the Rotary Lombardi Award is limited to down linemen, end-to-end, either on offense or defense, who set up no farther than 10 yards to the left or right of the ball, and linebackers who set up no father than five yards deep from the line of scrimmage. The Thorpe Award is given to the nation's top defensive back.
Here are your ACC reps for both:
JIM THORPE AWARD
Eligibility for the Rotary Lombardi Award is limited to down linemen, end-to-end, either on offense or defense, who set up no farther than 10 yards to the left or right of the ball, and linebackers who set up no father than five yards deep from the line of scrimmage. The Thorpe Award is given to the nation's top defensive back.
Here are your ACC reps for both:
JIM THORPE AWARD
- Ray-Ray Armstrong, Miami
- Donnie Fletcher, Boston College
- Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech
- Chase Minnifield, Virginia
- Greg Reid, Florida State
- Xavier Rhodes, Florida State
- Kenny Tate, Maryland
- Nigel Bradham, LB, Florida State
- Jaymes Brooks, G, Virginia Tech
- Audie Cole, LB, NC State
- Jonathan Cooper, G, North Carolina
- Quinton Coples, OT, Florida State
- Blake DeChristopher, OT, Virginia Tech
- Marcus Forston, DT, Miami
- Dalton Freeman, C, Clemson
- Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
- Cam Johnson, DT, Virginia
- Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
- Donte Paige-Moss, DE, North Carolina
- Tydreke Powell, DT, North Carolina
- Sean Spence, LB, Miami
- Bruce Taylor, LB, Virginia Tech
- Joe Vellano, DT, Maryland
- Brandon Washington, G, Miami
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.
