ACC: T.J. Yates
Games. Tonight. TONIGHT!!!
- And one starring former NC State quarterback Russell Wilson. You gonna watch?
- Two true freshmen at Virginia will be needed to make an immediate impact.
- You know about Duke's 'Killer V's.' Brandon Braxton might be better than both of them.
- The Deacs kick off tonight, and David Glenn caught up with Wake coach Jim Grobe.
- Has everyone in Wake's program been too complacent?
- Georgia Tech B-back David Sims has made a significant jump this offseason to the top of the depth chart.
- Maryland's suspensions are nothing compared to what Miami is facing.
- Injured Eagles Donnie Fletcher and Andre Williams insist they'll play against Northwestern.
- How do you win a national title? Practice tough.
- The Orlando Sentinel previews Florida State's season.
- Uh oh. The mother of Miami receiver Aldarius Johnson has hired a lawyer and wants an explanation as to why her son has been suspended indefinitely.
- One of the biggest differences between former UNC quarterback T.J. Yates and his successor, Bryn Renner, is their personalities.
- Virginia Tech running back David Wilson should put up monster numbers in the first four games of the season.
- If Virginia quarterback Michael Rocco struggles, Ross Metheny will be next in line.
- Duke's running game is aiming for better numbers this season.
Poll: ACC's most difficult player to replace
May, 12, 2011
5/12/11
9:00
AM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
The "spring shoes to fill" series looked at the most difficult player to replace in each program. Five of them were quarterbacks, four linemen, two receivers and one linebacker.
Boston College: Anthony Castonzo
Clemson: Da'Quan Bowers
Duke: Abraham Kromah
Florida State: Rodney Hudson
Georgia Tech: Joshua Nesbitt
Maryland: Torrey Smith
Miami: Leonard Hankerson
North Carolina: T.J. Yates
NC State: Russell Wilson
Virginia: Marc Verica
Virginia Tech: Tyrod Taylor
Wake Forest: Russell Nenon
Hudson was the most decorated offensive lineman in ACC history. Taylor was the winningest quarterback in school history. Nesbitt was the most prolific rushing quarterback in league history. Bowers was honored as the nation's top defensive player. Almost all of them were record-setters. The ACC lost some tremendous talent from 2010 rosters.
Of these 12 players, I took the liberty of narrowing the list down to five choices for the most difficult player to replace in the ACC.
Clemson: Da'Quan Bowers
Duke: Abraham Kromah
Florida State: Rodney Hudson
Georgia Tech: Joshua Nesbitt
Maryland: Torrey Smith
Miami: Leonard Hankerson
North Carolina: T.J. Yates
NC State: Russell Wilson
Virginia: Marc Verica
Virginia Tech: Tyrod Taylor
Wake Forest: Russell Nenon
Hudson was the most decorated offensive lineman in ACC history. Taylor was the winningest quarterback in school history. Nesbitt was the most prolific rushing quarterback in league history. Bowers was honored as the nation's top defensive player. Almost all of them were record-setters. The ACC lost some tremendous talent from 2010 rosters.
Of these 12 players, I took the liberty of narrowing the list down to five choices for the most difficult player to replace in the ACC.
2010 overall record: 8-5
2010 conference record: 4-4
Returning starters
Offense: 6, defense: 6, punter/kicker: 2
Top returners
WR Dwight Jones, WR Erik Highsmith, OT James Hurst, OG Jonathan Cooper, C Cam Holland, DE Quinton Coples, DT Jared McAdoo, DE Donte Paige-Moss, DT Tydreke Powell, LB Kevin Reddick, CB Charles Brown
Key losses
QB T.J. Yates, TE Zack Pianalto, TB Johnny White, LB Quan Sturdivant, LB Bruce Carter, CB Kendric Burney, S Deunta Williams, S Da’Norris Searcy
2010 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Johnny White (720 yards)
Passing: T.J. Yates (3,418 yds)
Receiving: Dwight Jones* (946 yds)
Tackles: Kevin Reddick* (74)
Sacks: Quinton Coples* (10)
Interceptions: Da'Norris Searcy (4)
Spring answers
1. The offensive line should be the best since Butch Davis arrived in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels had to replace two starters in OT Mike Ingersoll and OG Alan Pelc, but Travis Bond has earned the starting job at right guard and Brennan Williams at right tackle. The left side of the line will be particularly strong with guard Jonathan Cooper (22 career starts), and OT James Hurst. This is also a large group, averaging 319 pounds.
2. There’s depth on the defensive line. There was enough depth this spring to move Coples from tackle back to end, his natural position. The Tar Heels have Paige-Moss at right end, Jordan Nix and Powell at tackle, and junior college transfer Sylvester Williams was pushing Nix for the starting job. Jared McAdoo has played both positions, and the staff has four tackles it feels good about.
3. Bryn Renner has taken over. Heading into the spring, Davis wouldn’t anoint Renner his 2011 starter just yet. Now, there’s no question it’s Renner’s job, as none of the other candidates came close to him this spring. True freshman Marquise Williams went through a major learning curve, and A.J. Blue and Braden Hanson didn’t close the gap.
Fall questions
1. Looking for a linebacker. Outside linebacker Zach Brown and middle linebacker Kevin Reddick have starting jobs locked up, but Herman Davidson and Darius Lipford will take their competition into summer camp.
2. Helping hands at tight end. Last year, 79 of the receptions were to tight ends, and Ryan Taylor and Zack Pianalto were two of the top three receivers on the team (combined for 66 catches last year). The staff recruited well at the position, but those players didn’t enroll early. Nelson Hurst, Christian Wilson and Sean Fitzpatrick were the lead candidates this spring.
3. Revamped secondary. All four starters must be replaced, but Jabari Price started the final four games at corner last season. There are six candidates for the safety positions, but Brown, Jonathan Smith and Brian Gupton all missed last season because of the NCAA investigation. Senior Matt Merletti emerged as a leader last year, safety Gene Robinson is in the mix, and safety Josh Hunter had a good spring game with six tackles and an interception. Tre Boston moved from corner to safety.
2010 conference record: 4-4
Returning starters
Offense: 6, defense: 6, punter/kicker: 2
Top returners
WR Dwight Jones, WR Erik Highsmith, OT James Hurst, OG Jonathan Cooper, C Cam Holland, DE Quinton Coples, DT Jared McAdoo, DE Donte Paige-Moss, DT Tydreke Powell, LB Kevin Reddick, CB Charles Brown
Key losses
QB T.J. Yates, TE Zack Pianalto, TB Johnny White, LB Quan Sturdivant, LB Bruce Carter, CB Kendric Burney, S Deunta Williams, S Da’Norris Searcy
2010 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Johnny White (720 yards)
Passing: T.J. Yates (3,418 yds)
Receiving: Dwight Jones* (946 yds)
Tackles: Kevin Reddick* (74)
Sacks: Quinton Coples* (10)
Interceptions: Da'Norris Searcy (4)
Spring answers
1. The offensive line should be the best since Butch Davis arrived in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels had to replace two starters in OT Mike Ingersoll and OG Alan Pelc, but Travis Bond has earned the starting job at right guard and Brennan Williams at right tackle. The left side of the line will be particularly strong with guard Jonathan Cooper (22 career starts), and OT James Hurst. This is also a large group, averaging 319 pounds.
2. There’s depth on the defensive line. There was enough depth this spring to move Coples from tackle back to end, his natural position. The Tar Heels have Paige-Moss at right end, Jordan Nix and Powell at tackle, and junior college transfer Sylvester Williams was pushing Nix for the starting job. Jared McAdoo has played both positions, and the staff has four tackles it feels good about.
3. Bryn Renner has taken over. Heading into the spring, Davis wouldn’t anoint Renner his 2011 starter just yet. Now, there’s no question it’s Renner’s job, as none of the other candidates came close to him this spring. True freshman Marquise Williams went through a major learning curve, and A.J. Blue and Braden Hanson didn’t close the gap.
Fall questions
1. Looking for a linebacker. Outside linebacker Zach Brown and middle linebacker Kevin Reddick have starting jobs locked up, but Herman Davidson and Darius Lipford will take their competition into summer camp.
2. Helping hands at tight end. Last year, 79 of the receptions were to tight ends, and Ryan Taylor and Zack Pianalto were two of the top three receivers on the team (combined for 66 catches last year). The staff recruited well at the position, but those players didn’t enroll early. Nelson Hurst, Christian Wilson and Sean Fitzpatrick were the lead candidates this spring.
3. Revamped secondary. All four starters must be replaced, but Jabari Price started the final four games at corner last season. There are six candidates for the safety positions, but Brown, Jonathan Smith and Brian Gupton all missed last season because of the NCAA investigation. Senior Matt Merletti emerged as a leader last year, safety Gene Robinson is in the mix, and safety Josh Hunter had a good spring game with six tackles and an interception. Tre Boston moved from corner to safety.
UNC has school-record 9 players drafted
May, 2, 2011
5/02/11
10:00
AM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
A school-record nine North Carolina players were selected in this year's NFL draft, including five on Saturday. Safety Da'Norris Searcy, running back Johnny White, quarterback T.J. Yates, linebacker Quan Sturdivant and tight end Ryan Taylor were picked in final four rounds of the draft.
“I’m thrilled for the guys who were selected and I’m hopeful a few others will get an opportunity as free agents," coach Butch Davis said in a prepared statement. "I think several of our players, like T.J. , Johnny and Ryan, benefited from playing in our pro-style offense. It should make their transition to the NFL that much easier. Our assistant coaches and our program did a great job preparing our players for the next level.”
Talk about taking advantage of a situation to make a recruiting pitch.
Betchya it works, too.
North Carolina and USC tied for the most picks in the country. It is the highest total for UNC since seven players were chosen in the 1998 draft.
Yates became the first Carolina quarterback taken since Ronald Curry in 2002. Yates passed for a single-season record 3,418 yards and led the Tar Heels to the Music City Bowl win against Tennessee as a senior.
“I was sitting at home and it gets annoying watching it and not knowing when or if you are going to be picked,” Yates said, according to the school's release. “My oldest brother, my nephew and I finally decided to watch a movie, but I kept getting calls from my friends asking me about the draft. Finally, my agent called and said Houston was going to take me. The GM called and asked me if I was ready to be a Texan. It feels really good.”
Yates became the first North Carolina player selected by the Houston Texans. White became the first Tar Heel tailback taken in the NFL draft since Jonathan Linton in 1998.
ACC Players Taken in the NFL Draft
1 12 Christian Ponder, Florida State, QB Vikings
1 14 Robert Quinn, North Carolina, DE Rams
1 22 Anthony Castonzo, Boston College, T Colts
2 33 Ras-I Dowling, Virginia, CB Patriots
2 38 Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech, RB Cardinals
2 40 Bruce Carter, North Carolina, LB Cowboys
2 41 Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson, DT Redskins
2 46 Orlando Franklin, Miami, OL Broncos
2 50 Marcus Gilchrist, Clemson, CB Chargers
2 51 Da’ Quan Bowers, Clemson, DE Buccaneers
2 52 Marvin Austin, North Carolina, DT Giants
2 55 Rodney Hudson, Florida State, C-G Chiefs
2 58 Torrey Smith, Maryland, WR Ravens
2 59 Greg Little, North Carolina, WR Browns
2 60 Brandon Harris, Miami, CB Texans
3 67 Nate Irving, NC State, LB Broncos
3 79 Leonard Hankerson, Miami, WR Redskins
3 81 DeMarcus Van Dyke, Miami, CB Raiders
3 86 Allen Bailey, Miami, DE Chiefs
4 100 Da’Norris Searcy, North Carolina, S Bills
4 109 Colin McCarthy, Miami, ILB Titans
4 122 Chris Hairston, Clemson, T Bills
4 127 Rashad Carmichael, Virginia Tech, CB Texans
4 130 Jamie Harper, Clemson, RB Titans
5 133 Johnny White, North Carolina, RB Bills
5 152 T.J. Yates, North Carolina, QB Texans
6 171 Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina, LB Cardinals
6 173 Byron Maxwell, Clemson, DB Seahawks
6 180 Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech, QB Ravens
6 181 Richard Gordon, Miami, TE Raiders
6 192 Matt Bosher, Miami, P-PK Falcons
7 218 Ryan Taylor, North Carolina, TE Cowboys
7 221 Da’Rel Scott, Maryland, RB Giants
7 224 Markus White, Florida State, DE Redskins
7 225 Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech, RB Ravens
ACC Selections by Rounds
First 3
Second 12
Third 4
Fourth 5
Fifth 2
Sixth 5
Seventh 4
ACC Selections by Teams
North Carolina 9
Miami 8
Clemson 6
Florida State 3
Virginia Tech 3
Maryland 2
Boston College 1
Georgia Tech 1
NC State 1
Virginia 1
1 12 Christian Ponder, Florida State, QB Vikings
1 14 Robert Quinn, North Carolina, DE Rams
1 22 Anthony Castonzo, Boston College, T Colts
2 33 Ras-I Dowling, Virginia, CB Patriots
2 38 Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech, RB Cardinals
2 40 Bruce Carter, North Carolina, LB Cowboys
2 41 Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson, DT Redskins
2 46 Orlando Franklin, Miami, OL Broncos
2 50 Marcus Gilchrist, Clemson, CB Chargers
2 51 Da’ Quan Bowers, Clemson, DE Buccaneers
2 52 Marvin Austin, North Carolina, DT Giants
2 55 Rodney Hudson, Florida State, C-G Chiefs
2 58 Torrey Smith, Maryland, WR Ravens
2 59 Greg Little, North Carolina, WR Browns
2 60 Brandon Harris, Miami, CB Texans
3 67 Nate Irving, NC State, LB Broncos
3 79 Leonard Hankerson, Miami, WR Redskins
3 81 DeMarcus Van Dyke, Miami, CB Raiders
3 86 Allen Bailey, Miami, DE Chiefs
4 100 Da’Norris Searcy, North Carolina, S Bills
4 109 Colin McCarthy, Miami, ILB Titans
4 122 Chris Hairston, Clemson, T Bills
4 127 Rashad Carmichael, Virginia Tech, CB Texans
4 130 Jamie Harper, Clemson, RB Titans
5 133 Johnny White, North Carolina, RB Bills
5 152 T.J. Yates, North Carolina, QB Texans
6 171 Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina, LB Cardinals
6 173 Byron Maxwell, Clemson, DB Seahawks
6 180 Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech, QB Ravens
6 181 Richard Gordon, Miami, TE Raiders
6 192 Matt Bosher, Miami, P-PK Falcons
7 218 Ryan Taylor, North Carolina, TE Cowboys
7 221 Da’Rel Scott, Maryland, RB Giants
7 224 Markus White, Florida State, DE Redskins
7 225 Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech, RB Ravens
ACC Selections by Rounds
First 3
Second 12
Third 4
Fourth 5
Fifth 2
Sixth 5
Seventh 4
ACC Selections by Teams
North Carolina 9
Miami 8
Clemson 6
Florida State 3
Virginia Tech 3
Maryland 2
Boston College 1
Georgia Tech 1
NC State 1
Virginia 1
Biggest shoes to fill: Quarterback T.J. Yates
Talk about underrated in 2010. Not only was Yates one of the most improved players in the ACC, his leadership during the tumultuous season was invaluable. He was second in the ACC in passing average per game (262.9 yards) and second in the ACC in pass efficiency (145.5). He completed 66.8 percent of his passes for 19 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He ranked among the top 25 in the country in passing, total passing yards, passing efficiency and passing average per game. He set 37 school records and led the Tar Heels to three straight bowl games.
Spring replacement: Bryn Renner
Renner is replacing a record-setter, but he had a good spring. He completed 9 of 13 attempts for 123 yards and a touchdown in the spring game and separated himself as the undisputed starter. His 43-yard touchdown pass to Erik Highsmith should have Carolina fans excited about the potential in the passing game.
Summer outlook: Renner obviously has to continue to improve, but he won’t be looking over his shoulder at the competition this summer, because none of the other quarterbacks came close. The more experience he gets with the first team, the more comfortable he’ll be, but there’s only one way to get game experience.
More in this series:
Talk about underrated in 2010. Not only was Yates one of the most improved players in the ACC, his leadership during the tumultuous season was invaluable. He was second in the ACC in passing average per game (262.9 yards) and second in the ACC in pass efficiency (145.5). He completed 66.8 percent of his passes for 19 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He ranked among the top 25 in the country in passing, total passing yards, passing efficiency and passing average per game. He set 37 school records and led the Tar Heels to three straight bowl games.
Spring replacement: Bryn Renner
Renner is replacing a record-setter, but he had a good spring. He completed 9 of 13 attempts for 123 yards and a touchdown in the spring game and separated himself as the undisputed starter. His 43-yard touchdown pass to Erik Highsmith should have Carolina fans excited about the potential in the passing game.
Summer outlook: Renner obviously has to continue to improve, but he won’t be looking over his shoulder at the competition this summer, because none of the other quarterbacks came close. The more experience he gets with the first team, the more comfortable he’ll be, but there’s only one way to get game experience.
More in this series:
No. 1. Tyrod Taylor, QB, Virginia Tech
AP Photo/John BazemoreVirginia Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor was the ACC Player of the Year.2010 numbers:He led the ACC and was No. 13 in the nation in passing efficiency with 154.8, was fourth in the league in total offense at 243 yards per game, and fifth in passing average per game at 195.9. He completed 59.7 percent of his passes for 2,743 yards, 24 touchdowns and just five interceptions. He also ran for 659 yards and five touchdowns.
Previous ranking: No. 17
Making the case for Taylor:It should come as no surprise that the ACC's Player of the Year landed the No. 1 spot. Not only did he throw the fewest interceptions and gain more rushing yards than any quarterback in the ACC, he was also invaluable as the leader of the team that became the first to go undefeated in conference play since Florida State in 2000. Taylor led the Hokies to the ACC championship game and had one of his best performances of the season in the win over Florida State. His trademark scrambles will be missed this year and impossible to duplicate, and what made him special this year was his improvement in the passing game. Taylor set school records in 2010 for career total offense, career passing yards, career rushing yards by a quarterback, career wins by a starting quarterback, career rushing touchdowns by a quarterback and touchdown passes in a season. Virginia Tech was once again No. 1 in the ACC, and couldn't have done it without this No. 1.
The countdown:
No. 2 Da'Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
No. 3 Rodney Hudson, OG, Florida State
No. 4 Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
No. 5 Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
No. 6 Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
AP Photo/John BazemoreVirginia Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor was the ACC Player of the Year.Previous ranking: No. 17
Making the case for Taylor:It should come as no surprise that the ACC's Player of the Year landed the No. 1 spot. Not only did he throw the fewest interceptions and gain more rushing yards than any quarterback in the ACC, he was also invaluable as the leader of the team that became the first to go undefeated in conference play since Florida State in 2000. Taylor led the Hokies to the ACC championship game and had one of his best performances of the season in the win over Florida State. His trademark scrambles will be missed this year and impossible to duplicate, and what made him special this year was his improvement in the passing game. Taylor set school records in 2010 for career total offense, career passing yards, career rushing yards by a quarterback, career wins by a starting quarterback, career rushing touchdowns by a quarterback and touchdown passes in a season. Virginia Tech was once again No. 1 in the ACC, and couldn't have done it without this No. 1.
The countdown:
No. 2 Da'Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
No. 3 Rodney Hudson, OG, Florida State
No. 4 Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
No. 5 Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
No. 6 Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 2. Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
2010 numbers: He led the nation and the ACC with 15.5 sacks, and he led the ACC and was second in the country with 26 tackles for loss. He also had 20 quarterback pressures, two pass breakups, one interception, one forced fumble, and was second on the team with 74 tackles.
Previous ranking: Not ranked.
Making the case for Bowers: There's a reason Bowers wasn't on this list in the preseason. He had yet to live up to the hype he drew in 2008 as the nation's No. 1 recruit. That changed last year, when Bowers had a breakout season that led many to believe he could be the No. 1 overall pick in this year's NFL draft. That's because he was so disruptive in the passing game, he tackled well and was quick to get into opponents' backfields. He tossed blockers aside and also escaped double-teams. He won the Bronko Nagurski and Hendricks Awards, and was named ACC Defensive Player of the Year. Had Clemson fared better as a team, Bowers probably would have been No. 1 on this list.
The countdown:
No. 3 Rodney Hudson, OG, Florida State
No. 4 Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
No. 5 Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
No. 6 Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
[+] Enlarge
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesDa'Quan Bowers was the ACC Defensive Player of the Year.
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesDa'Quan Bowers was the ACC Defensive Player of the Year.Previous ranking: Not ranked.
Making the case for Bowers: There's a reason Bowers wasn't on this list in the preseason. He had yet to live up to the hype he drew in 2008 as the nation's No. 1 recruit. That changed last year, when Bowers had a breakout season that led many to believe he could be the No. 1 overall pick in this year's NFL draft. That's because he was so disruptive in the passing game, he tackled well and was quick to get into opponents' backfields. He tossed blockers aside and also escaped double-teams. He won the Bronko Nagurski and Hendricks Awards, and was named ACC Defensive Player of the Year. Had Clemson fared better as a team, Bowers probably would have been No. 1 on this list.
The countdown:
No. 3 Rodney Hudson, OG, Florida State
No. 4 Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
No. 5 Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
No. 6 Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 3. Rodney Hudson, OG, Florida State
2010 numbers: He started all 14 games at left guard, where he played 904 snaps and posted a team-leading grade of 88 percent. He also led the team with 48 knockdown blocks. He was penalized once all season and missed only four assignments. He was the lone Seminole lineman to not relinquish a sack.
Previous ranking: No. 9
Making the case for Hudson: He’s the most decorated offensive lineman in ACC history. He posted his highest grade -- 97 percent -- when it mattered most, in the ACC championship game against Virginia Tech. He was also a major reason why the Noles were able to rush for 218 yards against the SEC’s top rushing defense.
The countdown:
No. 4 Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
No. 5 Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
No. 6 Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
[+] Enlarge
Chuck Cook/US PresswireFlorida State offensive linesman Rodney Hudson didn't allow a single sack last season.
Chuck Cook/US PresswireFlorida State offensive linesman Rodney Hudson didn't allow a single sack last season.Previous ranking: No. 9
Making the case for Hudson: He’s the most decorated offensive lineman in ACC history. He posted his highest grade -- 97 percent -- when it mattered most, in the ACC championship game against Virginia Tech. He was also a major reason why the Noles were able to rush for 218 yards against the SEC’s top rushing defense.
The countdown:
No. 4 Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
No. 5 Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
No. 6 Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 4. Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College
2010 numbers: He led the nation and his team in total tackles with 183 (14.08 per game) and solo tackles (110). He also had three interceptions, three fumble recoveries, two forced fumbles, 10.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.
Previous ranking: No. 14
Making the case for Kuechly: He is literally one of the best in the country. Kuechly earned unanimous All-America honors as a sophomore. He was all over the field in the bowl game against Nevada with 12 tackles and a key interception. Kuechly now has had 22 consecutive games in double figures in tackling, with 341 hits in a 26-game collegiate career, and is the NCAA’s leading active career tackler averaging 13.1 per game.
The countdown:
No. 5 Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
No. 6 Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
2010 numbers: He led the nation and his team in total tackles with 183 (14.08 per game) and solo tackles (110). He also had three interceptions, three fumble recoveries, two forced fumbles, 10.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.
[+] Enlarge
Jason O. Watson/US PresswireLinebacker Luke Kuechly led the nation with 183 tackles.
Jason O. Watson/US PresswireLinebacker Luke Kuechly led the nation with 183 tackles.Making the case for Kuechly: He is literally one of the best in the country. Kuechly earned unanimous All-America honors as a sophomore. He was all over the field in the bowl game against Nevada with 12 tackles and a key interception. Kuechly now has had 22 consecutive games in double figures in tackling, with 341 hits in a 26-game collegiate career, and is the NCAA’s leading active career tackler averaging 13.1 per game.
The countdown:
No. 5 Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
No. 6 Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 5. Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
2010 numbers: He started all 13 games and was the Eagles' most productive offensive lineman in eight of the 13 games. He gave up only one sack this past season and missed seven assignments. He had 40 knockdowns and consistently graded out as the highest on the offensive line. He had only two penalties in 820 plays.
Previous ranking: No. 10
Making the case for Castonzo: He's a smart, disciplined, durable player who was the anchor on the line that paved the way for the ACC's leading rusher, Montel Harris. Castonzo's 54 starts were the most of any current ACC player, and he started every game since arriving on campus in 2007. He was an all-conference selection as both a player and a student. Most importantly, he's a biochemistry major who hopes to conduct cancer research someday. All that and NFL potential. No doubt one of the ACC's top five.
The countdown:
No. 6 Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
[+] Enlarge
Jason O. Watson/US PresswireAnthony Castonzo has been the rock of the Boston College offensive line since arriving on campus.
Jason O. Watson/US PresswireAnthony Castonzo has been the rock of the Boston College offensive line since arriving on campus.Previous ranking: No. 10
Making the case for Castonzo: He's a smart, disciplined, durable player who was the anchor on the line that paved the way for the ACC's leading rusher, Montel Harris. Castonzo's 54 starts were the most of any current ACC player, and he started every game since arriving on campus in 2007. He was an all-conference selection as both a player and a student. Most importantly, he's a biochemistry major who hopes to conduct cancer research someday. All that and NFL potential. No doubt one of the ACC's top five.
The countdown:
No. 6 Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 6. Russell Wilson, QB, NC State
2010 numbers: He led the ACC in passing average per game with 274.1. He was fifth in passing efficiency (127.5), and completed 58.4 percent of his passes for a league-high 3,563 yards and 28 touchdowns.
Previous ranking: No. 7
Making the case for Wilson: He’s a record-setter, a phenomenal two-sport athlete, and the best quarterback the program has seen since Philip Rivers. In 2010, Wilson ranked among the top 15 in the country in passing, passing yards per game and total passing yards. Wilson tied Rivers for the single-season record in touchdown responsibility with 37, while his 3,563 passing yards and 308 completions rank as the second-highest marks in school history. His 527 pass attempts for the season set a new school record, and his 3,998 yards of total offense is the second-highest ever for an NC State player.
The countdown:
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
[+] Enlarge
Mitch Stringer/US PresswireThe Wolfpack's Russell Wilson led the ACC with 3,563 passing yards this past season.
Mitch Stringer/US PresswireThe Wolfpack's Russell Wilson led the ACC with 3,563 passing yards this past season.Previous ranking: No. 7
Making the case for Wilson: He’s a record-setter, a phenomenal two-sport athlete, and the best quarterback the program has seen since Philip Rivers. In 2010, Wilson ranked among the top 15 in the country in passing, passing yards per game and total passing yards. Wilson tied Rivers for the single-season record in touchdown responsibility with 37, while his 3,563 passing yards and 308 completions rank as the second-highest marks in school history. His 527 pass attempts for the season set a new school record, and his 3,998 yards of total offense is the second-highest ever for an NC State player.
The countdown:
No. 7 Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 7. Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
2010 numbers: He led the team, the country and the ACC with nine interceptions for 110 yards, and eight pass breakups and a league-high 17 passes defended (fifth in the country). He was second in the ACC in punt return average. He had 19 punt returns for 239 yards (12.6) and a touchdown, and nine kick returns for 190 yards (21.1). He started all 13 games and had 39 tackles.
Previous ranking: Not ranked.
Making the case for Hosley: He was the top player at the field corner position on the team that went undefeated in ACC play. He was a first-team all-conference selection, and as his stats indicate, he was also one of the best players in the country. He made game-changing plays as a corner and return man, and is also a solid tackler. Some of his best plays came in clutch situations.
The countdown:
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Steve HelberVirginia Tech cornerback Jayron Hosley had a league-high 17 passes defended last season.
AP Photo/Steve HelberVirginia Tech cornerback Jayron Hosley had a league-high 17 passes defended last season.Previous ranking: Not ranked.
Making the case for Hosley: He was the top player at the field corner position on the team that went undefeated in ACC play. He was a first-team all-conference selection, and as his stats indicate, he was also one of the best players in the country. He made game-changing plays as a corner and return man, and is also a solid tackler. Some of his best plays came in clutch situations.
The countdown:
No. 8 Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 8. Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami
2010 numbers: He caught 72 passes for 1,156 yards and 13 touchdowns. He averaged 88.9 receiving yards per game.
Previous ranking: Not ranked.
Making the case for Hankerson: Hankerson is coming off one of, if not the most productive season for a wide receiver in school history. His 12 touchdown catches this season is a Miami record, breaking Michael Irvin's mark of 11 set in 1986. In the Hurricanes' regular-season finale, Hankerson became just the third player in program history to record a 1,000-yard receiving season and the first to have 2,000 yards for a career and 1,000 yards in a season.
The countdown:
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
2010 numbers: He caught 72 passes for 1,156 yards and 13 touchdowns. He averaged 88.9 receiving yards per game.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Lynne SladkLeonard Hankerson had one of the most productive seasons ever for a wideout at Miami.
AP Photo/Lynne SladkLeonard Hankerson had one of the most productive seasons ever for a wideout at Miami.Making the case for Hankerson: Hankerson is coming off one of, if not the most productive season for a wide receiver in school history. His 12 touchdown catches this season is a Miami record, breaking Michael Irvin's mark of 11 set in 1986. In the Hurricanes' regular-season finale, Hankerson became just the third player in program history to record a 1,000-yard receiving season and the first to have 2,000 yards for a career and 1,000 yards in a season.
The countdown:
No. 9 Nate Irving, LB, NC State
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
No. 9. Nate Irving, LB, NC State
2010 numbers: He set a memorable FBS record of eight tackles for loss against Wake Forest. He led the team with 97 tackles, including 20.5 tackles for loss (second in the ACC) and 6.5 sacks. He also had seven quarterback pressures, three pass breakups, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
Previous ranking: Not ranked.
Making the case for Irving: After suffering serious injuries in a car crash that sidelined him for the entire 2009 season, Irving made a remarkable comeback last season. There’s no question he has made an impact during his career, as NC State was 18-8 with him in the lineup. He made game-changing plays like the fumble recovery that sealed the win against FSU, and he was a team captain and leader.
The countdown:
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
[+] Enlarge
Douglas Jones/US PresswireLinebacker Nate Irving, left, was a playmaker for the Wolfpack last season.
Douglas Jones/US PresswireLinebacker Nate Irving, left, was a playmaker for the Wolfpack last season.Previous ranking: Not ranked.
Making the case for Irving: After suffering serious injuries in a car crash that sidelined him for the entire 2009 season, Irving made a remarkable comeback last season. There’s no question he has made an impact during his career, as NC State was 18-8 with him in the lineup. He made game-changing plays like the fumble recovery that sealed the win against FSU, and he was a team captain and leader.
The countdown:
No. 10 Greg Reid, CB, Florida State
No. 11 Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
No. 12 Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State
No. 13 Quinton Coples, DT, North Carolina
No. 14 Kenny Tate, S, Maryland
No. 15 DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson
No. 16 Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
No. 17 Montel Harris, RB, Boston College
No. 18 T.J. Yates, QB, North Carolina
No. 19 Alex Wujciak, LB, Maryland
No. 20 Jarvis Jenkins, DT, Clemson
No. 21 Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
No. 22 Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech
No. 23 Brandon Washington, OL, Miami
No. 24 George Bryan, TE, NC State
No. 25 Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
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.
