ACC: Mark Herzlich
The ACC has bid farewell to some outstanding players from 2011. Some of them graduated, others have decided to leave early for the NFL. Whatever their reasons, they left behind some size 15 shoes to fill. Here’s a look at who on each team in the ACC will be the most difficult to replace in 2012, and a snapshot of who is or could be next in line to replace him:
Boston College
OUT: Linebacker Luke Kuechly. He might be the most difficult player to replace in the ACC. Kuechly won the 2011 Lombardi Award, given annually to the nation’s top lineman or linebacker; the Nagurski Award, given annually to the nation’s top defensive player; the Dick Butkus Award, which is presented annually to the nation’s top linebacker; and the Lott IMPACT Defensive Player of the Year. He left early for the NFL after finishing his junior season leading the nation in tackles for the second straight year. In 2011, Kuechly set ACC records for tackles in a season (191) and career (532).
IN: It’s an open competition, but Sean Duggan played in nine games last year as a true freshman behind Kuechly and on the outside. Duggan had his first career interception at Miami, had three tackles against Virginia Tech and five against Clemson. Coach Frank Spaziani has also said that Steele Divitto is versatile enough to earn the starting job in the middle. Divitto, a junior, won the starting job at outside linebacker when Mark Herzlich left. Last year, Divitto was third on the team in tackles with 72, and finished with 3.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, an interception, and five pass breakups. Spaziani said redshirt freshman Nick Lifka will also be competing for Kuechly’s spot.
Boston College
OUT: Linebacker Luke Kuechly. He might be the most difficult player to replace in the ACC. Kuechly won the 2011 Lombardi Award, given annually to the nation’s top lineman or linebacker; the Nagurski Award, given annually to the nation’s top defensive player; the Dick Butkus Award, which is presented annually to the nation’s top linebacker; and the Lott IMPACT Defensive Player of the Year. He left early for the NFL after finishing his junior season leading the nation in tackles for the second straight year. In 2011, Kuechly set ACC records for tackles in a season (191) and career (532).
IN: It’s an open competition, but Sean Duggan played in nine games last year as a true freshman behind Kuechly and on the outside. Duggan had his first career interception at Miami, had three tackles against Virginia Tech and five against Clemson. Coach Frank Spaziani has also said that Steele Divitto is versatile enough to earn the starting job in the middle. Divitto, a junior, won the starting job at outside linebacker when Mark Herzlich left. Last year, Divitto was third on the team in tackles with 72, and finished with 3.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, an interception, and five pass breakups. Spaziani said redshirt freshman Nick Lifka will also be competing for Kuechly’s spot.
Still digesting Wednesday's recruiting news? Here's more ...
- Let's start with a link to more ACC recruiting links.
- Georgia Tech's main headline from signing day was about a recruiting violation.
- Clemson running back Mike Bellamy's status is day-to-day, receiver Joe Craig got the boot, and Dabo Swinney got a top 10 class.
- Despite the 2-10 finish in 2011, Randy Edsall's recruiting class was a step in the right direction.
- No more Luke Kuechly, no more Mark Herzlich, but the Eagles have helped rebuild the linebacker position with this class.
- Keeping in-state talent has been an uphill battle for North Carolina's schools.
- UNC finally beats NC State. Kind of.
- One of the only coaches who knew how good Philip Rivers was when he was in high school was David Cutcliffe.
- Miami coach Al Golden responded to Virginia Tech's attempt to get JaWand Blue back. What a mess.
- You can sum up FSU's 2012 class with two words: size and speed.
- Jim Grobe might be forced to ask some of his young players to contribute early.
- What do you do if you're a coach and your son is being recruited by your school? Never stop being a parent, said UVa receivers coach Shawn Moore.
Here we go ...
- Former BC linebacker Mark Herzlich has been picked up by the Giants.
- Eight former Virginia Tech players signed free-agent contracts on Tuesday.
- Former Virginia Tech defensive end Steven Friday will get his chance in the NFL with the Houston Texans.
- Former Maryland receiver Adrian Cannon has agreed to a deal with the Chargers.
- Miami also had several players picked up as free agents.
- NC State's new uniforms are no-nonsense ... kind of like its coach.
- Duke coach David Cutcliffe is always worth listening to.
- Four things learned from Paul Johnson at the ACC's media days.
- It's Randy Edsall's way or no way.
- UNC's NCAA investigation has had an impact on recruiting.
- I love it when players give back. Miami loves it more right now.
- Clemson coach Dabo Swinney thinks he can have a dynamic offense.
ACC team position rankings: Linebackers
June, 29, 2011
6/29/11
5:00
PM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
You are going to argue about this. How do I know? Because I'm still arguing with myself over it ...
1. Boston College: Luke Kuechly is one of the best in the country, but he’s not alone. The Eagles also have Kevin Pierre-Louis, who ranked second nationally among all freshmen in tackles per game last season with 7.15 -- ninth in the ACC. It won’t be easy to replace Mark Herzlich, on or off the field, but Steele Divitto played in 11 games last season, and Nick Clancy and Will Thompson both saw time on the second team.
2. Florida State: The Noles had to replace two starters, including Kendall Smith, the team’s second-leading tackler, last season, and Mister Alexander, but the upcoming talent could be even better. Nigel Bradham led the team with 98 tackles and five pass breakups last season, and Christian Jones, Jeff Luc, Telvin Smith and Vince Williams will also be competing for playing time.
3. Miami: Sean Spence, who has 30 career starts, should be one of the best in the country, and Ramon Buchanon, another senior, also returns. The Canes have five other linebackers with experience in Kelvin Cain, who started seven games, Jordan Futch, who had a great spring and will see the field, Tyrone Cornelius, Shayon Green and C.J. Holton.
4. North Carolina: Kevin Reddick, who led the Tar Heels with 74 tackles last season, returns for his third season as starter. Zach Brown is also a returning starter with game-changing capabilities, and there is plenty of depth with Dion Guy, Darius Lipford, Ebele Okakpu and Herman Davidson. Junior college transfer Fabby Desir could also have an impact.
5. NC State: Audie Cole and Terrell Manning have combined for 39 career starts, and Cole fared well this spring moving to the middle to replace Nate Irving. With the return of Sterling Lucas, Dwayne Maddox and Colby Jackson, there is plenty of experience, but not quite as much depth as some other programs.
6. Georgia Tech: The Jackets return both starters in Steven Sylvester and Julian Burnett. There is no shortage of depth with Jeremy Attaochu, Quayshawn Nealey, Brandon Watts, Albert Rocker, Malcolm Munroe and Daniel Drummond.
7. Clemson: This group has a lot of potential, especially if true freshmen Tony Steward and Stephone Anthony make an immediate impact. There’s no question they’ll be given a chance, but the Tigers already have a good group with Corico Hawkins, Quandon Christian and Jonathan Willard.
8. Virginia Tech: It seems like this rotation has been in flux for a while now. The Hokies’ leading tackler returns in Bruce Taylor, Barquell Rivers had 96 tackles as a starter in 2009 but was injured last season, and there are several young players adding to the competition. Chase Williams, Tariq Edwards, Telvion Clark and Jack Tyler are only a few. Whip linebacker Jeron Gouveia-Winslow will have to earn his spot back over Alonzo Tweedy, Dominique Patterson and Nick Dew.
9. Maryland: The Terps were hit hard here with the losses of Alex Wujciak (381 career tackles) and Adrian Moten (14.5 career sacks). Demetrius Hartsfield returns with 20 career starts, and there are four lettermen returning including Darin Drakeford, Isaiah Ross, David Mackall and Bradley Johnson.
10. Wake Forest: Kyle Wilber’s move to outside linebacker will give this position a boost, as he led the Deacs with 14.5 tackles for loss and six sacks last season. His backup is Gelo Orange (22 tackles). The Deacs also have Tristan Dorty, Joey Ehrmann, Mike Olsen, Scott Betros, Riley Haynes and Justin Jackson.
11. Virginia: Starters LaRoy Reynolds and Ausar Walcott both return, but neither has started more than 11 career games. Junior Steve Greer has prior starting experience but played mainly as a reserve last season. Adam Taliaferro, Conner McCartin, Tucker Windle and LoVante Battle are also in the mix for playing time.
12. Duke: Kelby Brown is the lone returning starter, but he’s a promising young player who led the nation last season as a freshman in fumbles recovered. He missed spring ball while recovering from a knee injury, but is expected to start with Tyree Glover or Kevin Rojas.
[+] Enlarge
Michael Tureski/Icon SMILuke Kuechly leads a deep group of Boston College linebackers.
Michael Tureski/Icon SMILuke Kuechly leads a deep group of Boston College linebackers.2. Florida State: The Noles had to replace two starters, including Kendall Smith, the team’s second-leading tackler, last season, and Mister Alexander, but the upcoming talent could be even better. Nigel Bradham led the team with 98 tackles and five pass breakups last season, and Christian Jones, Jeff Luc, Telvin Smith and Vince Williams will also be competing for playing time.
3. Miami: Sean Spence, who has 30 career starts, should be one of the best in the country, and Ramon Buchanon, another senior, also returns. The Canes have five other linebackers with experience in Kelvin Cain, who started seven games, Jordan Futch, who had a great spring and will see the field, Tyrone Cornelius, Shayon Green and C.J. Holton.
4. North Carolina: Kevin Reddick, who led the Tar Heels with 74 tackles last season, returns for his third season as starter. Zach Brown is also a returning starter with game-changing capabilities, and there is plenty of depth with Dion Guy, Darius Lipford, Ebele Okakpu and Herman Davidson. Junior college transfer Fabby Desir could also have an impact.
5. NC State: Audie Cole and Terrell Manning have combined for 39 career starts, and Cole fared well this spring moving to the middle to replace Nate Irving. With the return of Sterling Lucas, Dwayne Maddox and Colby Jackson, there is plenty of experience, but not quite as much depth as some other programs.
6. Georgia Tech: The Jackets return both starters in Steven Sylvester and Julian Burnett. There is no shortage of depth with Jeremy Attaochu, Quayshawn Nealey, Brandon Watts, Albert Rocker, Malcolm Munroe and Daniel Drummond.
7. Clemson: This group has a lot of potential, especially if true freshmen Tony Steward and Stephone Anthony make an immediate impact. There’s no question they’ll be given a chance, but the Tigers already have a good group with Corico Hawkins, Quandon Christian and Jonathan Willard.
8. Virginia Tech: It seems like this rotation has been in flux for a while now. The Hokies’ leading tackler returns in Bruce Taylor, Barquell Rivers had 96 tackles as a starter in 2009 but was injured last season, and there are several young players adding to the competition. Chase Williams, Tariq Edwards, Telvion Clark and Jack Tyler are only a few. Whip linebacker Jeron Gouveia-Winslow will have to earn his spot back over Alonzo Tweedy, Dominique Patterson and Nick Dew.
9. Maryland: The Terps were hit hard here with the losses of Alex Wujciak (381 career tackles) and Adrian Moten (14.5 career sacks). Demetrius Hartsfield returns with 20 career starts, and there are four lettermen returning including Darin Drakeford, Isaiah Ross, David Mackall and Bradley Johnson.
10. Wake Forest: Kyle Wilber’s move to outside linebacker will give this position a boost, as he led the Deacs with 14.5 tackles for loss and six sacks last season. His backup is Gelo Orange (22 tackles). The Deacs also have Tristan Dorty, Joey Ehrmann, Mike Olsen, Scott Betros, Riley Haynes and Justin Jackson.
11. Virginia: Starters LaRoy Reynolds and Ausar Walcott both return, but neither has started more than 11 career games. Junior Steve Greer has prior starting experience but played mainly as a reserve last season. Adam Taliaferro, Conner McCartin, Tucker Windle and LoVante Battle are also in the mix for playing time.
12. Duke: Kelby Brown is the lone returning starter, but he’s a promising young player who led the nation last season as a freshman in fumbles recovered. He missed spring ball while recovering from a knee injury, but is expected to start with Tyree Glover or Kevin Rojas.
Former Florida State quarterback Christian Ponder isn't the only ACC player who is training at IMG Academies in Bradenton, Fla. Former Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich is also there, working harder than ever to try to continue his career in the NFL.
In Part I of this series, you'll see how golf has been an important outlet for Herzlich during his battle with Ewing's Sarcoma Cancer, and during his training for the NFL. In Part II, you get a good glimpse into just how seriously Herzlich is taking his training both on and off the field. Best of luck to @MarkHerzlich, @cponder7 and the other ACC players still hoping for their shot.
You haven't seen the last of Ponder and Herzlich, though.
Their younger brothers are on their way up, too.
In Part I of this series, you'll see how golf has been an important outlet for Herzlich during his battle with Ewing's Sarcoma Cancer, and during his training for the NFL. In Part II, you get a good glimpse into just how seriously Herzlich is taking his training both on and off the field. Best of luck to @MarkHerzlich, @cponder7 and the other ACC players still hoping for their shot.
You haven't seen the last of Ponder and Herzlich, though.
Their younger brothers are on their way up, too.
Don't forget the chat today!
- Is Darius Smith going to be the next great Miami lineman from Lackawanna?
- Virginia added another commitment to its 2012 recruiting class.
- Former FSU center Ryan McMahon is just playing the waiting game.
- Even though he didn't get drafted, former BC linebacker Mark Herzlich is still hoping for his shot at the NFL.
- SI.com graded the coaching hires and Al Golden fared better than Randy Edsall.
- Four players are leaving North Carolina's program.
- Matt Hayes ranked the ACC's toughest nonconference schedules. I like Matt. But I'll have to disagree with him on the top spots.
2010 overall record: 7-6
2010 conference record: 4-4
Returning starters
Offense: 7, defense: 7, punter/kicker: 2
Top returners
LB Luke Kuechly, P Ryan Quigley, CB Donnie Fletcher, QB Chase Rettig, TB Montel Harris, WR Bobby Swigert, WR Ifeanyi Momah, TE Chris Pantale, DE Max Holloway, DT Kaleb Ramsey
Key losses
LT Anthony Castonzo, LB Mark Herzlich, DT Damik Scafe, RG Thomas Claiborne, RT Rich Lapham, CB DeLeon Gause
2010 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Harris* (1,243 yards)
Passing: Rettig* (1,238 yds)
Receiving: Swigert* (504 yds)
Tackles: Kuechly* (183)
Sacks: Holloway* (4)
Interceptions: Fletcher* (5)
Spring answers
1. Starting offensive line has been rebuilt. Mark Spinney returns at center, the projected starting guards are Nathan Richman and Ian White, who started three games as a freshman, and the tackles are Emmett Cleary and John Wetzel. It’s a veteran group of starters, which is important considering the losses of three starters, including Castonzo, who had a league-high 54 starts and is a likely first-round draft pick.
2. The offensive depth and experience has improved. The Eagles return their leading rusher, passer and receiver from a year ago. They enter the fall set at every starting position on offense, and 10 of the 13 receivers who caught a pass last year return. Coach Frank Spaziani said everyone got better this spring, including Rettig, who was forced to play as a true freshman last year.
3. Two spring enrollees could contribute immediately. Four-star cornerback Al Louis-Jean really turned some heads this spring as a backup to Fletcher, and was ranked the No. 9 cornerback in the nation in his recruiting class by ESPN Recruiting. True freshman Mehdi Abdesmad also had a good spring and could see playing time at defensive end behind Holloway.
Fall questions
1. How much better is Rettig in the new system? There’s no doubt that Rettig will be better in his second season as a starter, but how will the sophomore adjust to the new scheme under first-year coordinator Kevin Rogers? Spaziani has said that the offense won’t look dramatically different, but there is new terminology involved and there will be some wrinkles.
2. Will the Eagles develop depth up front? The No. 2 offensive line is comprised entirely of redshirt freshmen: i.e. no experience. The defensive line will be young, and so will its backups. This summer will be critical for getting the linemen more reps and finding rotations the staff is comfortable with.
3. What is this team’s offensive identity? This spring wasn’t a good indicator of what BC’s offense will look like, as star tailback Montel Harris was held out of the scrimmages for precautionary reasons, and his backup, Andre Williams, was nursing a shoulder injury. The Eagles also hope to get receiver Colin Larmond Jr. back this summer from a knee injury he sustained before last season, and BC will be under the direction of a new offensive coordinator.
2010 conference record: 4-4
Returning starters
Offense: 7, defense: 7, punter/kicker: 2
Top returners
LB Luke Kuechly, P Ryan Quigley, CB Donnie Fletcher, QB Chase Rettig, TB Montel Harris, WR Bobby Swigert, WR Ifeanyi Momah, TE Chris Pantale, DE Max Holloway, DT Kaleb Ramsey
Key losses
LT Anthony Castonzo, LB Mark Herzlich, DT Damik Scafe, RG Thomas Claiborne, RT Rich Lapham, CB DeLeon Gause
2010 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Harris* (1,243 yards)
Passing: Rettig* (1,238 yds)
Receiving: Swigert* (504 yds)
Tackles: Kuechly* (183)
Sacks: Holloway* (4)
Interceptions: Fletcher* (5)
Spring answers
1. Starting offensive line has been rebuilt. Mark Spinney returns at center, the projected starting guards are Nathan Richman and Ian White, who started three games as a freshman, and the tackles are Emmett Cleary and John Wetzel. It’s a veteran group of starters, which is important considering the losses of three starters, including Castonzo, who had a league-high 54 starts and is a likely first-round draft pick.
2. The offensive depth and experience has improved. The Eagles return their leading rusher, passer and receiver from a year ago. They enter the fall set at every starting position on offense, and 10 of the 13 receivers who caught a pass last year return. Coach Frank Spaziani said everyone got better this spring, including Rettig, who was forced to play as a true freshman last year.
3. Two spring enrollees could contribute immediately. Four-star cornerback Al Louis-Jean really turned some heads this spring as a backup to Fletcher, and was ranked the No. 9 cornerback in the nation in his recruiting class by ESPN Recruiting. True freshman Mehdi Abdesmad also had a good spring and could see playing time at defensive end behind Holloway.
Fall questions
1. How much better is Rettig in the new system? There’s no doubt that Rettig will be better in his second season as a starter, but how will the sophomore adjust to the new scheme under first-year coordinator Kevin Rogers? Spaziani has said that the offense won’t look dramatically different, but there is new terminology involved and there will be some wrinkles.
2. Will the Eagles develop depth up front? The No. 2 offensive line is comprised entirely of redshirt freshmen: i.e. no experience. The defensive line will be young, and so will its backups. This summer will be critical for getting the linemen more reps and finding rotations the staff is comfortable with.
3. What is this team’s offensive identity? This spring wasn’t a good indicator of what BC’s offense will look like, as star tailback Montel Harris was held out of the scrimmages for precautionary reasons, and his backup, Andre Williams, was nursing a shoulder injury. The Eagles also hope to get receiver Colin Larmond Jr. back this summer from a knee injury he sustained before last season, and BC will be under the direction of a new offensive coordinator.
Former Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich was one of six former ACC players taken in the UFL draft. Herzlich was drafted in the 10th round by the Omaha Nighthawks. Other conference representatives include:
Because of the NFL's lockout, none of the undrafted rookies can sign with NFL teams. The UFL could be their only chance to get on the field this year, but that doesn't mean they'll sign a contract. If they do, those players are bound to the UFL, even if the NFL lockout ends.
- Jamie Cumbie, DL, Clemson
- Ryan Sims, DT, North Carolina
- Kennedy Tinsley, FB, North Carolina
- Dave Philistin, LB, Maryland
- Jonathan Lewis, DT, Virginia Tech
Because of the NFL's lockout, none of the undrafted rookies can sign with NFL teams. The UFL could be their only chance to get on the field this year, but that doesn't mean they'll sign a contract. If they do, those players are bound to the UFL, even if the NFL lockout ends.
Winter conditioning -- check.
Signing day -- check.
Spring football -- check.
NFL draft -- check.
No offseason in the blogosphere -- check ...
Signing day -- check.
Spring football -- check.
NFL draft -- check.
No offseason in the blogosphere -- check ...
- Russell Wilson says he would have stayed if he would have been given an equal chance to compete for the starting job. Hmm. And suddenly this is an uncomfortable situation and not-so pleasant parting of ways.
- Virginia Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor is talking big for a little rookie.
- Kyle Tucker is right -- it was hard to watch Darren Evans go undrafted knowing his situation and his personality.
- Former FSU quarterback Christian Ponder is another one ready to prove some doubters wrong.
- The most decorated offensive lineman in ACC history was chosen in the second round.
- It was a lean draft year for Georgia Tech.
- But it was a strong draft overall for the ACC.
- Former Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich isn't done yet.
- Miami had to wait for most of its draft news, but it finished with a flurry.
- Taylor is still a quarterback, thanks to the Ravens.
- There have been a lot of changes in College Park, but the ability of quarterback Danny O'Brien to make plays has remained constant.
- Clemson's offensive line has been a weak link, but that seemed to change this spring.
- The NCAA investigation is still hovering over North Carolina.
- Former Maryland hoopster Cliff Tucker is adjusting to life -- and nagging injuries -- as a football player.
Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich talks about his recovery from cancer and the NFL draft.
2 former ACC players to attend NFL draft festivities
April, 26, 2011
4/26/11
2:00
PM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
U.S. District Judge Susan Richard Nelson has ordered an end to the NFL lockout.
The NFL announced on Monday that a record 25 players will attend the first round of the NFL draft festivities on Thursday night at Radio Music City Hall in New York City. Two of those players -- former BC linebacker Mark Herzlich and former Virginia Tech running back Ryan Williams -- will represent the ACC.
Here's the entire list:
Nebraska cornerback Prince Amukamara
UCLA linebacker Akeem Ayers
Iowa defensive end Adrian Clayborn
Kentucky receiver Randall Cobb
Alabama defensive tackle Marcell Dareus
Auburn DT Nick Fairley
Missouri quarterback Blaine Gabbert
Georgia receiver A.J. Green
Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich
Alabama running back Mark Ingram
California defensive end Cameron Jordan
Alabama WR Julio Jones
Purdue DE Ryan Kerrigan
Illinois DT Corey Liuget
Texas A&M LB Von Miller
UCLA safety Rahim Moore
Auburn QB Cam Newton
LSU CB Patrick Peterson
Florida offensive lineman Mike Pouncey
Missouri DE Aldon Smith
USC offensive tackle Tyron Smith
Baylor DT Phil Taylor
Baylor guard Danny Watkins
Wisconsin DE J.J. Watt
Virginia Tech RB Ryan Williams
The ACC has better representation in Todd McShay's latest mock draft:
No. 11 Robert Quinn, North Carolina
No. 17 Anthony Castonzo, Boston College
No. 20 Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson
No. 31 Brandon Harris, Miami
The NFL announced on Monday that a record 25 players will attend the first round of the NFL draft festivities on Thursday night at Radio Music City Hall in New York City. Two of those players -- former BC linebacker Mark Herzlich and former Virginia Tech running back Ryan Williams -- will represent the ACC.
Here's the entire list:
Nebraska cornerback Prince Amukamara
UCLA linebacker Akeem Ayers
Iowa defensive end Adrian Clayborn
Kentucky receiver Randall Cobb
Alabama defensive tackle Marcell Dareus
Auburn DT Nick Fairley
Missouri quarterback Blaine Gabbert
Georgia receiver A.J. Green
Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich
Alabama running back Mark Ingram
California defensive end Cameron Jordan
Alabama WR Julio Jones
Purdue DE Ryan Kerrigan
Illinois DT Corey Liuget
Texas A&M LB Von Miller
UCLA safety Rahim Moore
Auburn QB Cam Newton
LSU CB Patrick Peterson
Florida offensive lineman Mike Pouncey
Missouri DE Aldon Smith
USC offensive tackle Tyron Smith
Baylor DT Phil Taylor
Baylor guard Danny Watkins
Wisconsin DE J.J. Watt
Virginia Tech RB Ryan Williams
The ACC has better representation in Todd McShay's latest mock draft:
No. 11 Robert Quinn, North Carolina
No. 17 Anthony Castonzo, Boston College
No. 20 Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson
No. 31 Brandon Harris, Miami
When Boston College met for the first time this spring, it did so without two of the ACC's most recognizable leaders in recent years. Former linebacker Mark Herzlich, who had 41 career starts and was an inspiration to everyone because of his winning battle against cancer, and former offensive lineman Anthony Castonzo, who started a league-high 54 career games, are already missed in Chestnut Hill.
“Replacing people, that never happens," said coach Frank Spaziani. "What happens is somebody takes over for them. They either play better than they did or they don’t play as well. It’s a team game. We obviously lost a first-round draft pick over there [on the offensive line]. We’ve lost three offensive linemen for that matter. We’re young in the line. We have to find out about our players, find out who can play."
Equally as important as their playmaking abilities was their leadership skills, and with a void of fourth- and fifth-year seniors on the roster, Boston College is looking for some new leaders.
"We’re going to need leadership," Spaziani said earlier Thursday on the ACC spring teleconference. "Usually the strength of your program comes in that area. This is where the potholes we’ve been trying to navigate the last few years have to be navigated through this year."
“Replacing people, that never happens," said coach Frank Spaziani. "What happens is somebody takes over for them. They either play better than they did or they don’t play as well. It’s a team game. We obviously lost a first-round draft pick over there [on the offensive line]. We’ve lost three offensive linemen for that matter. We’re young in the line. We have to find out about our players, find out who can play."
Equally as important as their playmaking abilities was their leadership skills, and with a void of fourth- and fifth-year seniors on the roster, Boston College is looking for some new leaders.
"We’re going to need leadership," Spaziani said earlier Thursday on the ACC spring teleconference. "Usually the strength of your program comes in that area. This is where the potholes we’ve been trying to navigate the last few years have to be navigated through this year."
Monday, Monday ...
- Former Georgia Tech standout Drew Hill died late Friday night.
- Clemson is deeper and should be better at linebacker this year.
- Former BC teammates Anthony Castonzo and Mark Herzlich are ready for their shot at the NFL.
- Wake Forest quarterback Skylar Jones has decided to transfer.
It's the post-signing day quiet ...
- Ever read "Playing for Pizza?" This story about former Georgia Tech center Sean Bedford reminds me of it. Funny, turns out Bedford read it, too.
- The loss of former Maryland defensive coordinator Don Brown to Connecticut is a big blow to the Terps' defense.
- Former BC linebacker Mark Herzlich is still chasing his NFL dreams.
- Clemson never gave up on any of the players in this recruiting class.
- FSU hasno plans on greyshirting any of its recruits.
- And you guys wonder why the official schedule hasn't been released yet ...
- Georgia Tech will open with a Thursday night thriller.
- Tate Forcier and Tom Savage are stil potential quarterbacks for Miami.
- Major changes are headed Duke's way.
- Kevin Lempa is in the running for Maryland's defensive coordinator job.
- Two players with ACC ties have been elected to the NFL Hall of Fame.
The official list for the NFL combine has been released. A total of 48 players from the ACC have been invited to audition for the NFL from February 23 – March 1. When categorized by school, it's somewhat of a reality check to see how many of the best players in the conference are moving on, and which programs will take the biggest hit. It's impossible not to wonder how good North Carolina could have been had all of the following players remained eligible. The Tar Heels will send the most players to the combine with 11.
Here are the players who will represent the ACC:
BOSTON COLLEGE (3)
Here are the players who will represent the ACC:
BOSTON COLLEGE (3)
- Anthony Castonzo
- Rich Lapham
- Mark Herzlich
- Da'Quan Bowers
- Marcus Gilchrist
- Chris Hairston
- Jamie Harper
- Jarvis Jenkins
- Byron Maxwell
- DeAndre McDaniel
- Rodney Hudson
- Christian Ponder
- Markus White
- Anthony Allen
- Mario Butler
- Jerrard Tarrant
- Torrey Smith
- Adrian Moten
- Da'Rel Scott
- Allen Bailey
- Damien Berry
- Matt Bosher
- Orlando Franklin
- Graig Cooper
- Leonard Hankerson
- Brandon Harris
- Colin McCarthy
- DeMarcus Van Dyke
- Marvin Austin
- Kendric Burney
- Bruce Carter
- Greg Little
- Shaun Draughn
- Robert Quinn
- Da'Norris Searcy
- Quan Sturdivant
- Johnny White
- Deunta Williams
- T.J. Yates
- Nate Irving
- Owen Spencer
- Danny Aiken
- Ras-I Dowling
- Rashad Carmichael
- Darren Evans
- John Graves
- Tyrod Taylor
- Ryan Williams
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.
