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Ranking offensive linemen is not easy. But hey, either is being an offensive lineman. Here are your best "big uglies."

1. North Carolina: Three starters and one part-time starter return from last year’s team, and this line could be the biggest and best since Butch Davis was hired. Guard Jonathan Cooper (22 starts), center Cam Holland (20) and tackle James Hurst (12) have combined for 54 career starts. Travis Bond has four starts and is the leading candidate to take over at the other guard position.

2. Miami: The Canes return nine of their top 10 offensive linemen including four starters from last year, and Joel Figueroa was granted a sixth season of eligibility. Even with the coaching change, the Canes should be strong up front. Center Tyler Horn is a veteran, Brandon Washington is a difference-maker, and there’s enough competition that Seantrel Henderson spent most of the spring as a backup.

3. Clemson: First-year offensive line coach Robbie Caldwell has four returning starters to work with in Landon Walker, Antoine McClain, Dalton Freeman and David Smith. They also have top reserve Mason Cloy, who has 19 career starts and has played in 38 games. There is plenty of depth for a dependable rotation.

4. Virginia Tech: All four returnees started every game last year, and there is enough depth that the Hokies should be able to rotate the most players up front they ever have. It’s a veteran group led by Blake DeChristopher, Andrew Lanier, Jaymes Brooks and Greg Nosal.

5. Florida State: Despite the losses of Rodney Hudson and Ryan McMahon, there’s experience up front. This fall, the starting lineup will consist of tackle Andrew Datko, left guard Bryan Stork or David Spurlock, center Jacob Fahrenkrug, right guard Spurlock or Stork, right tackle Zebrie Sanders. Just how good they’ll be remains to be seen as the majority of them were out with injuries this past spring.

6. NC State: The Pack lost Jake Vermiglio and will be without injured left guard Andrew Wallace for about half of the season, but Zach Allen, Camden Wentz and R.J. Mattes are returning starters. There’s also a lot of talent waiting to emerge with young players like Duran Christophe, Rob Crisp, Tyson Chandler, Torian Box and Andy Jomantas.

7. Virginia: Four players return with a combined 64 career starts in Anthony Mihota, Austin Pasztor, Oday Aboushi and Morgan Moses, who started the final seven games of the season as a true freshman. Pasztor is in his fourth season as a starter and has 32 career starts.

8. Boston College: Despite the losses of Anthony Castonzo, Thomas Claiborne and Rich Lapham, the Eagles are almost settled up front, it’s the experience behind the starters that’s reason for concern. The No. 2 offensive line is comprised entirely of redshirt freshmen. 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.

9. Maryland: It’s been an injury-prone group the past two seasons and that didn’t change this past spring. Left tackle Justin Gilbert, one of the top linemen on the team, reinjured the same knee he had ACL surgery on and will be out until October. R.J. Dill was also injured this spring, though he played in the spring game, and Justin Lewis was rehabbing from offseason surgery. Pete White also missed practices, so the group needs to solidify the two-deep roster.

10. Georgia Tech: The Jackets return three starters in guard Omoregie Uzzi, guard Will Jackson and tackle Phil Smith. Sophomore Jay Finch played extensively last season and Ray Beno and Nick McRae were key reserves. Redshirt freshmen Catlin Alford and Morgan Bailey could also work their way into the rotation. Uzzi will be the leader of the line, but they were outplayed by the defense this spring.

11. Wake Forest: Four starters are back, but the Deacs will sorely miss the experience and leadership of former center Russell Nenon. Garrick Williams started the final three games of 2010 -- two at guard and one at center, but he struggled with the snaps towards the end of spring and isn’t where the staff needs him to be yet.

12. Duke: The Blue Devils should take another step forward this season under offensive line coach Matt Luke, and they need to -- Duke’s running game was last in the ACC last year and 104th in the country. Brian Moore replaces a three-year starter at center, but given his experience at right guard the past two seasons, it should be a smooth transition. That will leave a hole, though, at the right guard position, where Laken Tomlinson and John Coleman are the top candidates.

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.

It's that time of year, ACC fans. Duke kicks off the ACC's spring football schedule with practice tomorrow, so it's time to take a look at three storylines to watch for each program. We'll start with the Atlantic Division:

BOSTON COLLEGE

Spring practice starts: March 15

Spring game: April 16

What to watch:

• The progression of quarterback Chase Rettig. As a true freshman, Rettig replaced Dave Shinskie as starter against Notre Dame on Oct. 2. He’ll only get better with more experience, and there’s room for improvement, as he threw nine interceptions and six touchdowns. He completed 51.3 percent of his passes for 137.6 yards per game. Two of those picks came in the 20-13 loss to Nevada in the Kraft Fight Hunger bowl, but he’s expected to take an important step forward this offseason and will need to if BC is going to graduate from the nation’s 109th best offense.
• The offense under a new coordinator. Kevin Rogers replaced Gary Tranquill, who retired after the bowl game, and the Eagles will have to adjust to a new scheme and system, starting this spring. Rogers said he'll adapt his system to the personnel he has to work with, but considering he was hired on Monday, there hasn't been much time for him to evaluate film.
• The revamped offensive line. BC has to replace three starters up front, including left tackle Anthony Castonzo, right guard Thomas Claiborne and right tackle Rich Lapham. Emmett Cleary and center Mark Spinney are returning starters, and left guard Ian White started a few games at the end of the year. Bryan Davis, Claiborne’s backup at right guard, and John Wetzel, Castonzo’s backup, are frontrunners to earn starts.

CLEMSON

Spring practice starts: March 7

Spring game: April 9

What to watch:

• Quarterback Tajh Boyd. Prior to the arrival of two early enrollees, Boyd was the only scholarship quarterback on the roster, and his experience alone -- albeit limited -- makes it his job to lose. The staff wants him to become a little more accurate and consistent this spring. His education was accelerated at this time a year ago when former quarterback Kyle Parker spent the spring playing baseball, but that was under former offensive coordinator Billy Napier. He’s got a new coordinator -- and a new offense to learn.
• The new offensive scheme. First-year offensive coordinator Chad Morris brings an up-tempo style similar to that of Auburn’s, and the Tigers will have to learn it as quickly as he’ll want them to execute it. Morris has said Boyd is suited just right to lead it. Morris will want to stretch the field in every direction, depend on a strong running game and include long pass plays. He’s tasked with improving an offense that ranked No. 10 in the ACC in both scoring offense and total offense.
• Defense up the middle. It starts up front, where the Tigers have to replace defensive tackle Jarvis Jenkins. Linebacker Brandon Maye, who played in the middle a lot, decided to transfer, and safety DeAndre McDaniel, who controlled the middle of the field in the secondary, has also graduated. The Tigers have the No. 1 inside linebacker and No. 1 outside linebacker in the country in this year’s recruiting class, but they won’t arrive until the summer. For now, Corico Hawkins returns as a starting middle linebacker, while Quandon Christian is likely to stay on the outside. Rennie Moore will replace Jenkins, but McDaniel’s spot is up for grabs.

FLORIDA STATE

Spring practice starts: March 21

Spring game: April 16

What to watch:

• Big holes on the offensive line. There’s depth, experience and incoming talent, but there are also big shoes to fill with the graduation of left guard Rodney Hudson and center Ryan McMahon. Right guard David Spurlock has been seen snapping on the sidelines at practices, indicating he could move to center, while recovering from concussions and going through rehab. McMahon’s backup was Jacob Stanley. Henry Orelus, Bryan Stork and Rhonne Sanderson all started at right guard for Spurlock when he was out. Junior college transfer Jacob Fahrenkrug, the No. 4 overall junior college prospect, could have an immediate impact at left guard.
• Backup quarterback battle. With EJ Manuel a lock as the starter, the attention turns to the No. 2 spot. Clint Trickett, a redshirt freshman and son of offensive line coach Rick Trickett, and Will Secord, a redshirt sophomore, are the top two candidates. Secord was named the most improved quarterback of the spring at this time a year ago. Neither of them have thrown a collegiate pass.
• Linebackers. The Seminoles will have to replace two starters in Kendall Smith and Mister Alexander. Nigel Bradham is the only returning starter. This spring will feature competition among Christian Jones, Telvin Smith, Vince Williams and Jeff Luc. It’s a more talented crop waiting in the wings, but inexperience is a factor. It’s a chance for Luc and Jones -- two of FSU’s top recruits in the 2010 class -- to remind everyone why they were rated the No. 1 inside linebacker and No. 2 outside linebacker, respectively, in the country.

MARYLAND

Spring practice starts: March 29

Spring game: April 30

What to watch:

• New staff, new schemes. First-year coach Randy Edsall wants to be multiple, get vertical and take advantage of quarterback Danny O’Brien’s strengths. The departure of former defensive coordinator Don Brown to Connecticut was a surprise and a blow to the defense, which will now have to make a transition under a new coordinator who has yet to be hired.
• Competition at linebacker. Two starters have to be replaced in Alex Wujciak and Adrian Moten, who were also both leaders of the defense. Demetrius Hartsfield returns as a starter, but the new staff will have to figure out who else fits into what slots. Ben Pooler has had knee trouble, but he is expected to compete with Darin Drakeford and Ryan Donohue, who were both No. 2 at their respective positions in 2010.
• Special teams. Not only did the Terps lose a four-year starter in punter/placekicker Travis Baltz, they also have to replace their top kick returner and conference leader in all-purpose yards in receiver Torrey Smith, who left early for the NFL. Nick Ferrara handled kickoffs last year and was No. 2 behind Baltz at both kicker and punter, but he’s a placekicker first, and has to get back on track with consistency. He’ll be the only scholarship kicker on the roster until incoming freshman Nathaniel Renfro joins the team this summer. Dexter McDougle has returned kickoffs in the past, and Trenton Hughes is another option, but with a new staff, it could be a clean slate.

NC STATE

Spring practice starts: March 17

Spring game: April 16

What to watch:

• Mike Glennon. The team is moving forward as if starter Russell Wilson won’t return, promoting Glennon to No. 1 on the depth chart. The offense will have a new look, as the plays will be suited to Glennon’s strengths. At 6-foot-7, he’s much taller than Wilson, a more prototypical drop-back passer with a strong arm. While the plays might look different to the fans, they’re the same ones Glennon has been practicing since the day he arrived on campus. He’s a smart, unflappable player scheduled to graduate this May, but we haven’t seen enough of him to know just how good he is.
• A new crop of receivers. NC State will have to replace three seniors in Owen Spencer, Jarvis Williams and Darrell Davis. Spencer and Williams led the Pack in receiving last year, combining for nine touchdowns and over 1,600 yards. NC State will turn to Jay Smith, who had 10 catches in 12 games, Steven Howard, Quintin Payton, and T.J. Graham, who had four touchdowns and played in all 13 games. Payton played a little more toward the end of the year, and he’s a tall, big target (about 6-foot-4) and comparable to Williams. Bryan Underwood, who redshirted last year, could also contribute.
• Running back competition. James Washington had taken over the starting job at the end of 2010, but he’ll be pushed this spring by Dean Haynes and Mustafa Greene, who led the team in rushing in 2010 as a true freshman. They’ll also be under the direction of a new assistant coach, as Jason Swepson is now the head coach at Elon. It will be the first time Greene has been in a spring practice, and Washington, who was hurt last year, is finally healthy.

WAKE FOREST

Spring practice starts: March 15

Spring game: April 16

What to watch:

• Progress of quarterback Tanner Price. The maturation of Price, who started nine games as a true freshman last year, will be crucial to the Deacs’ hopes of returning to the postseason. Price was forced to play earlier than expected and finished with seven touchdowns and eight interceptions. He completed 56.8 percent of his passes for 1,349 yards.
• A defense in transition. Coach Jim Grobe has said the staff is committed to making the transition to a 3-4 defense. The Deacons used that scheme to defend the triple option against Georgia Tech and Navy, and continued to experiment with it as the season progressed. This linebackers in this year’s recruiting class were brought in specifically with the 3-4 defense in mind.
• Redshirt offensive linemen. There were three true freshmen who redshirted last year who are expected to give four returning starters some legitimate competition -- Colin Summers, Dylan Heartsill and Daniel Blitch. The Deacs will also have to replace starting center Russell Nenon. Chance Raines was his backup last year.

It’s time to reload in the ACC. Here’s a look at the position needs for each team in the Atlantic Division for the 2011 signing class:

BOSTON COLLEGE

Offensive linemen: Six players on the final two-deep roster for 2010 were either juniors or seniors, and the Eagles will have to find replacements for Anthony Castonzo, Rich Lapham and Thomas Claiborne. There were two juniors at center in 2011, and the recruiting overall at this position hasn’t been as strong in recent years.

Defensive linemen: The Eagles have been thin at the position to begin with since the departures of Ron Brace and B.J. Raji. The interior line should be a priority, as tackle Damik Scafe will graduate, and Kaleb Ramsey will be a senior. Defensive end Brad Newman will also graduate.

CLEMSON

Defensive line: The early departure of defensive end Da’Quan Bowers and the loss of Jarvis Jenkins makes this group a priority. Seven of the eight players up front on the final two-deep roster were either juniors or seniors.

Quarterback: Prior to the early enrollees, Clemson only had one scholarship quarterback on the roster -- projected starter Tajh Boyd. The depth needs to be rebuilt after the loss of starter Kyle Parker and transfer of backup Willy Korn.

Running back: The early departure of Jamie Harper to the NFL left a hole in the Tigers’ lineup. It’s not completely empty, as Andre Ellington remains the best back on the roster and Roderick McDowell was a redshirt freshman backup to Harper.

FLORIDA STATE

Offensive lineman – The departures of Rodney Hudson and Ryan McMahon will leave gaping holes up front, and A.J. Ganguzza and Antwane Greenlee aren’t expected to return. Overall, the staff is looking for bigger, better players. With the exception of right guard, this was a veteran group.

Running back: Despite the current depth, the coaching staff still wanted to sign about three more running backs in this class.

Wide receiver: This would be the third priority for the staff. Bert Reed and Taiwan Easterling will both be seniors, but the team has lacked some dynamic playmakers at the position.

Linebacker: The Noles lost two starters from last year’s Atlantic Division championship team, and there are several young players on the rise like Jeff Luc and Telvin Smith, but the staff wants more numbers at the position.

Safety: The Noles need an upgrade at this position.

Defensive line: This is a matter of mostly building depth and size and continuing to get better.

MARYLAND

Kicker/ Punter: Nick Ferrara has the ability to do both, but he also struggled at both in 2010. Travis Baltz was a four-year starter at punter who has to be replaced. The kicking game should be a top priority in this class, and a concern if Ferrara doesn’t become more consistent.

Wide receiver: The early departure of standout Torrey Smith to the NFL leaves quarterback Danny O'Brien without a favorite target. Seven of the nine receivers listed on the most current depth chart for 2010 were either juniors or seniors.

Running back: The Terps have to replace starter Da’Rel Scott, and Davin Meggett will be a senior. There is some talent behind Meggett in D.J. Adams, but the position could use more depth.

Secondary: Six of the top 10 players in the secondary were either juniors or seniors in 2010, including safety Antwine Perez, who will graduate. Kenny Tate and Cameron Chism will both be seniors, and the corner position is the biggest need.

Defensive end: Defensive coordinator Don Brown would like to bring in at least one player who can really bring some speed off the edge.

NC STATE

Kickers: The Wolfpack lost their starting punter and place-kicker, easily making kickers the biggest need in this recruiting class.

Defensive linemen: With the exception of sophomore Brian Slay, the entire 2010 line was comprised of juniors and seniors. The Pack have to replace two starters, and two returning starters, Jeff Rieskamp and J.R. Sweezy, will be seniors.

Linebackers: This was another veteran group for NC State, with five of the six players on the two-deep either juniors or seniors. Nate Irving’s graduation will be a big hit and Audie Cole will be a senior.

Quarterback: If Russell Wilson leaves early, the position will be even thinner, but backup Mike Glennon will be a junior, so the staff needs to build more depth.

WAKE FOREST

Offensive linemen: The Deacs will have four redshirt juniors returning up front, and have to replace redshirt senior center Russell Nenon. The staff is looking to increase the depth and talent up front.

Linebackers: The position hasn’t been the same since the 2008 class (Aaron Curry and Stanley Arnoux). They were both drafted and two of the fastest players the program has ever seen. The staff needs to bring in more talent and speed here.

Thanks to our veterans ...

• Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson is in unfamiliar territory this season.
• It hasn't been easy being BC utility player Billy Flutie.
• Are tendencies good or bad? Sometimes, they can be both.
• BC coach Frank Spaziani and right guard Thomas Claiborne are on the same page again.
• NC State quarterback Russell Wilson hasn't made his mind up yet about whether he'll return for 2011.
• UNC's tailback situation remains uncertain heading into the Virginia Tech game.
• Virginia is hoping cornerback Ras-I Dowling can make one final appearance in Scott Stadium.
• Miami quarterback Jacory Harris was able to throw the ball around a little bit, but he's still not ready to play.
• ACC fans in the Triangle, welcome to ESPN3.
• If you're going to get into a discussion about chop blocks with Paul Johnson, you better know the difference between a cut block and a chop block.
• Virginia Tech has made a habit out of finishing strong.
• FSU's biggest problem? Focus. Regardless, the Seminoles' bowl picture is becoming clearer.

It's game day!!!!

• Miami must miss the Big East. It looks like Rutgers could be up next.
• It's wait-and-see for anyone watching Miami's Jacory Harris.
• Unfortunately for Harris, he's forever tied to the four interceptions at Ohio State -- regardless of who's fault they were.
• Georgia Tech has allowed a 100-yard rusher in six straight games. The Jackets would like that to stop this weekend against NC State.
• Virginia kicker Robert Randolph's job hasn't exactly been a snap so far this year.
• There are a few Terps who do their best to keep their teammates loose.
• With Thomas Claiborne injured, Mark Spinney's dream will come true when he starts at right guard.
• Clemson running back Andre Ellington might not be the home run threat C.J. Spiller was, but he's off to a better start in yards per carry.
• There are no guarantees for NC State, but history says a 3-0 start bodes well for finishing with a winning record.
• UNC shouldn't hold its breath as it appeals the NCAA's suspensions of two players.
• Has Kendric Burney been punished unfairly?
• FSU backup quarterback E.J. Manuel has been getting some significant reps this week while starter Christian Ponder rests his bruised triceps.
• Virginia Tech's offensive linemen responded against ECU.

Earlier this month I compiled a list of all of the ACC candidates who have been nominated for college football's major awards. A few more have since been released, so I figured it was time for an updated version. This one includes the Lou Groza Award, the Butkus Award, the John Mackey Award, and Doak Walker Award.

Here is the updated list:

BEDNARIK AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding defensive player by the Maxwell Football Club.

• Marvin Austin, North Carolina
• Allen Bailey, Miami
• Kendric Burney, North Carolina
• Ras-I Dowling, Virginia
• Brandon Harris, Miami
• Mark Herzlich, Boston College
• Luke Kuechly, Boston College
• Colin McCarthy, Miami
• DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson
• Robert Quinn, North Carolina
• Alex Wujciak, Maryland

BILETNIKOFF AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding wide receiver by the Tallahassee QB Club Foundation.

• Leonard Hankerson, Miami
• Marshall Williams, Wake Forest
• Jarvis Williams, NC State
• Donovan Varner, Duke
• Owen Spencer, NC State
• Torrey Smith, Maryland
• Bert Reed, Florida State
• Greg Little, North Carolina

BUTKUS AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding linebacker by the Butkus Foundation

• Bruce Carter, North Carolina
• Mark Herzlich, Boston College
• Nate Irving, NC State
• Luke Kuechly, Boston College
• Colin McCarthy, Miami
• Adrian Moten, Maryland
• Kevin Reddick, North Carolina
• Sean Spence, Miami
• Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
• Alex Wujciak, Maryland

DOAK WALKER AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding running back by the SMU Athletic Forum

• Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech
• Darren Evans, Virginia Tech
• Montel Harris, Boston College
• Da'Rel Scott, Maryland
• Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech

LOU GROZA AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding kicker by the Palm Beach Sports Commission

• Casey Barth, North Carolina
• Matt Bosher, Miami
• Dustin Hopkins, Florida State
• Robert Randolph, Virginia
• Will Snyderwine, Duke

JOHN MACKEY AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding tight end by the Nassau County Sports Commission

• Dwayne Allen, Clemson
• George Bryan, NC State
• Brett Huffman, Duke
• Zack Pianalto, North Carolina

MAXWELL AWARD: The Maxwell Award has been presented to the outstanding collegiate football player in America since 1937 and is named in honor of sportswriter Robert W. "Tiny" Maxwell.

• Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech
• Jacory Harris, Miami
• Montel Harris, Boston College
• Joshua Nesbitt, Georgia Tech
• Kyle Parker, Clemson
• Christian Ponder, Florida State
• Da'Rel Scott, Maryland
• Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech
• Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech
• Russell Wilson, NC State

WALTER CAMP AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding player by the Walter Camp Foundation.

• Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
• Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech

BRONKO NAGURSKI TROPHY: Presented to the nation's most outstanding defensive player by the Charlotte TD Club.

• Marvin Austin, North Carolina
• Allen Bailey, Miami
• Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson
• Bruce Carter, North Carolina
• Ras-I Dowling, Virginia
• Brandon Harris, Miami
• Mark Herzlich, Boston College
• Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson
• Luke Kuechly, Boston College
• DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson
• Robert Quinn, North Carolina
• Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
• Alex Wujciak, Maryland

DAVEY O'BRIEN AWARD: Presented to the nation's best quarterback by the Davey O'Brien Foundation.

• Jacory Harris, Miami
• Joshua Nesbitt, Georgia Tech
• Christian Ponder, Florida State
• Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech
• Russell Wilson, NC State

OUTLAND TROPHY: Presented to the nation's most outstanding interior lineman by the FWAA.

• Marvin Austin, North Carolina
• Sean Bedford, Georgia Tech
• Anthony Castonzo, Boston College
• Thomas Claiborne, Boston College
• Blake DeChristopher, Virginia Tech
• Marcus Forston, Miami
• Orlando Franklin, Miami
• Rodney Hudson, Florida State
• Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson
• Ryan McMahon, Florida State
• Alan Pelc, North Carolina

JIM THORPE AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding defensive back by the Jim Thorpe Association.

• Kendrick Burney, North Carolina
• Rashad Carmichael, Virginia Tech
• Ras-I Dowling, Virginia
• Brandon Harris, Miami
• DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson
• Deunta Williams, North Carolina

It's not easy keeping track of everyone who's been named to preseason watch lists, so I took some time today to make a one-stop shopping post for you on everyone in the ACC who's been recognized so far. I'll update it again, as there are more watch lists coming out this month.

Here's who is representing the ACC so far in college football's major awards watch lists (every ACC school has at least one player here):

BEDNARIK AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding defensive player by the Maxwell Football Club.

• Marvin Austin, North Carolina
• Allen Bailey, Miami
• Kendric Burney, North Carolina
• Ras-I Dowling, Virginia
• Brandon Harris, Miami
• Mark Herzlich, Boston College
• Luke Kuechly, Boston College
• Colin McCarthy, Miami
• DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson
• Robert Quinn, North Carolina
• Alex Wujciak, Maryland

BILETNIKOFF AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding wide receiver by the Tallahassee QB Club Foundation.

• Leonard Hankerson, Miami
• Marshall Williams, Wake Forest
• Jarvis Williams, NC State
• Donovan Varner, Duke
• Owen Spencer, NC State
• Torrey Smith, Maryland
• Bert Reed, Florida State
• Greg Little, North Carolina

MAXWELL AWARD: The Maxwell Award has been presented to the outstanding collegiate football player in America since 1937 and is named in honor of sportswriter Robert W. "Tiny" Maxwell.

• Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech
• Jacory Harris, Miami
• Montel Harris, Boston College
• Joshua Nesbitt, Georgia Tech
• Kyle Parker, Clemson
• Christian Ponder, Florida State
• Da'Rel Scott, Maryland
• Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech
• Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech
• Russell Wilson, NC State

WALTER CAMP AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding player by the Walter Camp Foundation.

• Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
• Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech

BRONKO NAGURSKI TROPHY: Presented to the nation's most outstanding defensive player by the Charlotte TD Club.

• Marvin Austin, North Carolina
• Allen Bailey, Miami
• Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson
• Bruce Carter, North Carolina
• Ras-I Dowling, Virginia
• Brandon Harris, Miami
• Mark Herzlich, Boston College
• Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson
• Luke Kuechly, Boston College
• DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson
• Robert Quinn, North Carolina
• Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
• Alex Wujciak, Maryland

DAVEY O'BRIEN AWARD: Presented to the nation's best quarterback by the Davey O'Brien Foundation.

• Jacory Harris, Miami
• Joshua Nesbitt, Georgia Tech
• Christian Ponder, Florida State
• Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech
• Russell Wilson, NC State

OUTLAND TROPHY: Presented to the nation's most outstanding interior lineman by the FWAA.

• Marvin Austin, North Carolina
• Sean Bedford, Georgia Tech
• Anthony Castonzo, Boston College
• Thomas Claiborne, Boston College
• Blake DeChristopher, Virginia Tech
• Marcus Forston, Miami
• Orlando Franklin, Miami
• Rodney Hudson, Florida State
• Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson
• Ryan McMahon, Florida State
• Alan Pelc, North Carolina

JIM THORPE AWARD: Presented to the nation's most outstanding defensive back by the Jim Thorpe Association.

• Kendrick Burney, North Carolina
• Rashad Carmichael, Virginia Tech
• Ras-I Dowling, Virginia
• Brandon Harris, Miami
• DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson
• Deunta Williams, North Carolina

The ACC released the 2010 preseason all-conference team, as voted on by 52 members of the media at the conference media days in Greensboro, N.C. UNC led all schools with five players selected, followed by Boston College with four players.

Clemson safety DeAndre McDaniel got the most votes, being named on 48 of the 52 ballots, while North Carolina defensive end Robert Quinn (47 votes) and Virginia Tech tailback Ryan Williams (45) were the next highest. Virginia and Wake Forest were the only two schools not represented here.

Offense

WR Donovan Varner, Duke

WR Torrey Smith, Maryland

TE George Bryan, NC State

T Anthony Castonzo, Boston College

T Chris Hairston, Clemson

G Rodney Hudson, Florida State

G Thomas Claiborne, Boston College

C Sean Bedford, Georgia Tech

QB Christian Ponder, Florida State

RB Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech

RB Montel Harris, Boston College

Defense

DE Robert Quinn, North Carolina

DE Allen Bailey, Miami

DT Marvin Austin, North Carolina

DT Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson

LB Alex Wujciak, Maryland

LB Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina

LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College

CB Kendric Burney, North Carolina

CB Brandon Harris, Miami

S DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson

S Deunta Williams, North Carolina

Specialists

PK Matt Bosher, Miami

P Matt Bosher, Miami

SP Torrey Smith, Maryland

The ACC was well-represented on the Outland and Nagurski trophies' watch lists, which were recently revealed. The Outland Trophy recognizes the nation's top interior lineman: offensive and defensive tackles, guards and centers. It is the third-oldest award in major college football. The Nagurski Trophy is awarded to the nation's best defensive player. Here are the ACC candidates:

OUTLAND

Marvin Austin, UNC, DT

Sean Bedford, Georgia Tech, C

Anthony Castonzo, Boston College, OT

Thomas Claiborne, Boston College, OG

Blake DeChristopher, Virginia Tech, OT

Marcus Forston, Miami, DT

Orlando Franklin, Miami, OT

Rodney Hudson, Florida State, OG

Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson, DT

Ryan McMahon, Florida State, C

Alan Pelc, UNC, OG

NAGURSKI

Marvin Austin, UNC, DT

Allen Bailey, Miami, DE

Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson, DE

Bruce Carter, UNC, LB

Ras-I Dowling, Virginia, CB

Brandon Harris, Miami, CB

Mark Herzlich, Boston College, LB

Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson, DT

Luke Kuechly, Boston College, LB

DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson, S

Robert Quinn, UNC, DE

Quan Sturdivant, UNC, LB

Alex Wujciak, Maryland, LB

Georgia Tech fans, brace yourselves.

Phil Steele's preseason All-ACC team came out and Georgia Tech quarterback Joshua Nesbitt is on the fourth team behind Christian Ponder, Tyrod Taylor and Jacory Harris, in that order. Miami and North Carolina have five players each on the first team. But guess what? Boston College has five, too. So much for the argument that the Eagles play with lesser talent. Virginia Tech -- the team many have ranked the highest from the ACC in the preseason polls -- only has one.

Here are Steele's full first teams for offense and defense, which he was kind enough to email me this morning:

OFFENSE

QB Christian Ponder, Florida State
RB Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech
RB Montel Harris, Boston College
WR Donovan Varner, Duke
WR Leonard Hankerson, Miami
WR Greg Little, North Carolina
TE George Bryan, NC State
C Sean Bedford, Georgia Tech
OG Rodney Hudson, Florida State
OG Thomas Claiborne, Boston College
OT Anthony Castonzo, Boston College
OT Orlando Franklin, Miami

DEFENSE

DE Robert Quinn, North Carolina
DT Marvin Austin, North Carolina
DT Jarvis Jenkins, Clemson
DE Allen Bailey, Miami
LB Luke Kuechly, Boston College
LB Alex Wujciak, Maryland
LB Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
CB Ras-I Dowling, Virginia
CB Brandon Harris, Miami
SS DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson
FS Deunta Williams, North Carolina

SPECIALISTS

K Matt Bosher, Miami
P Ryan Quigley, Boston College
KR Torrey Smith, Maryland
PR Greg Reid, Florida State

BOSTON COLLEGE

2009 overall record: 8-5

2009 conference record: 5-3

Returning starters

Offense: 8, defense: 7, punter/kicker: 1

Top returners

LT Anthony Castonzo, TB Montel Harris, LB Mark Herzlich, LB Luke Kuechly, FS Wes Davis, CB DeLeon Gause, RG Thomas Claiborne, RT Rich Lapham.

Key losses

WR Rich Gunnell, C Matt Tennant, RE Jim Ramella, LB Mike McLaughlin, DT Austin Giles

2009 statistical leaders (* returners)

Rushing: Harris* (1,457 yards)

Passing: Shinskie* (2,049 yds)

Receiving: Gunnell (880 yds)

Tackles: Kuechly* (158)

Sacks: Ramella (3)

Interceptions: Davis* (3)

Spring answers

1. Shinskie is older (he’s 26 now) and a little wiser. He has become a smarter player since he walked off the minor league baseball bus last year as a 25-year-old pitcher. Coach Frank Spaziani said his quarterback situation has survived a trip to the emergency room, but is still in “intensive care.”

2. The offensive line should live up to the tradition this year. Even with veteran Castonzo out this spring with a broken foot, it was clear this group has the ability to return to its old standards. With four starters returning, this line should pave the way for another outstanding year for Harris.

3. Kuechly still hasn’t reached his potential. The freshman All-America selection finished second nationally in tackles last year, but Spaziani still wants Kuechly to improve. Kuechly thinks he can and he wants to. He practices with a lot of intensity despite leading the ACC in tackles a year ago.

Fall questions

1. At what level will Herzlich be able to play? That’s the great unknown. He’s back and has been conditioning, but he hasn’t done any hitting. There seems to be a fairy tale vision of what it’s going to be like when Herzlich returns -- and anyone who has followed his story should be hoping for that storybook ending -- but it’s a lot more complicated and unclear just how much he’ll look like the 2008 Defensive Player of the Year.

2. Will Shinskie hold onto his job? Despite his progress, the quarterback job is still open heading into summer camp. Will the other two quarterbacks -- Chase Rettig and Joshua Bordner, both who enrolled early -- be able to challenge him for the starting job? Redshirt sophomore Michael Marscovetra is also in the mix.

3. Who will Harris’ backup be? It’s one of the thinnest positions in the conference, as Rolandan Finch, who had mononucleosis last year, tore his ACL in mid-April. Freshman Sterlin Phifer is an option, but it was hard to tell from the scrimmages because there wasn’t a lot of rushing with the hopes of keeping everyone healthy. Phifer had 15 carries for 28 yards and a touchdown in the first two scrimmages.

For the past few years, the Atlantic Division has been the weaker of the two divisions and nobody has been afraid to say it.

The same is expected this fall, but there's one area where the teams in the Atlantic Division appear to be stronger, and that's on the offensive line.

Here's a look at the top three contenders in each division and how their lines look after this spring:

ATLANTIC

Florida State: All five starters return, and they have combined for 142 career starts -- the most of any line in the ACC. Guard Rodney Hudson was an All-America selection last year, and he'll be back along with center Ryan McMahon, guard David Spurlock, and tackles Andrew Datko and Zebrie Sanders.

Clemson: Four starters return to a group that got progressively better last year and should finally be reaching its peak. Tackle Chris Hairston was a second-team all-conference selection last year, and he'll be joined by tackle Landon Walker, guard Antoine McClain and center Dalton Freeman.

Boston College: The Eagles return four starters, including Anthony Castonzo, an Outland Trophy candidate who has made 41 career starts, guard Thomas Claiborne, tackle Rich Lapham and guard Nathan Richman. That's three seniors and a junior, all of whom have started at least 25 career games. This group should get the Eagles back to their rich tradition of powerful offensive lines.

COASTAL

Virginia Tech: Left tackle is a position of concern. The Hokies turned to sophomore Nick Becton this spring and he did well in place of Ed Wang. Virginia Tech also has to replace Sergio Render, who had 52 career starts.

Miami: The Canes have to replace three starters up front, and center was one of the biggest concerns for coach Randy Shannon this spring. Tyler Horn took over for A.J. Trump there and brings some experience. Orlando Franklin moved to left tackle and will be the leader of the group.

Georgia Tech: The Jackets have to replace three starters, including the transfer of Joseph Gilbert. New faces are working their way into the rotation, and the second team was composed entirely of freshmen in the spring game.

Boston College began spring practices yesterday, and the Eagles are confident they can contend for the Atlantic Division -- again. I caught up with offensive lineman Anthony Castonzo earlier this month for his take on BC’s outlook this season. Castonzo is one of those super-smart offensive linemen -- his classes this semester include Biochemistry 2, Developmental Biology, Physical Chemistry, and Advanced Research in a Biochem Lab -- and he hopes to have a cure for cancer some day. I think he knows what he’s talking about. Here are the highlights of our conversation:

You guys were able to do a lot with a little last year. What’s the outlook heading into spring ball, and what are your expectations for this season?

AC: Our expectations are an ACC championship. I’ve been a part of two teams that have gone to the ACC championship [game], and we lost it both years, which was really frustrating. But I know personally, seeing what we’ve got, seeing what we have had in the past, I think we’ve got a legitimate shot to get there and win it.

What are some of the things you see that make you say that?

AC: We’ve got a lot of veteran guys in key spots. Obviously Montel [Harris] at running back, you open up a little hole for him and the kid’s gone. He’s a real solid player. The fact that last year Dave [Shinskie] was really raw at the quarterback position, he was about as raw as you can get, having not played football in about seven years. He’s going to be much better. We’ll have some competition at the quarterback position, which will boost his game and whoever’s game is going to be our starter. At the wideout position, we have some really good playmakers. Colin Larmond is prepped to have a real breakout season and make some real big plays. I like having him as a deep threat out there. Our whole line -- with me, [Thomas] Claiborne, [Rich] Lapham, [Nathan] Richman -- we’ve got four out of five starters coming back. That speaks for itself.

Our defense, we’re pretty strong at every position. Our cornerbacks, we have DeLeon Gause, at safety we’ve got Wes Davis coming back. At linebacker we’ve got superboy [Luke] Kuechly coming back, and his counterpart, superboy [Mark] Herzlich. Our defense is pretty stout. I look around at different positions and I can’t find a glaring weakness in our team, which is why I feel like we’re solid all around.

Do you think you guys as an offensive line lived up to the reputation last year, in terms of the strong BC tradition of the position in the past?

AC: I think we could’ve been better than we were. I’m not sure what the reason was why we didn’t live up to what we expected out of ourselves. On the road, we had some problems, especially, but even having said that, we definitely re-established ourselves in the run game, which I felt was a big hurdle for us to overcome. We had heard a lot from the media and such that we weren’t the road graders, the guys who can open up holes in the run game. We felt that getting Montel almost 1,500 yards last year, we thought that we regained a little bit of swagger with the run game and we really want to take that into this year and open up some big holes for him.

Check back later for the second half of this interview.

If you don't see it here, I didn't get it ...

BOSTON COLLEGE

OUT FOR SEASON

LB Mark Herzlich (illness)

FOR MARYLAND GAME

RB Rolandan Finch (illness) – DOUBTFUL

LS Jack Geiser (foot) – DOUBTFUL

OG Thomas Claiborne (leg) – QUESTIONABLE

DE Alex Albright (ankle) – QUESTIONABLE

DT Kaleb Ramsey (ankle) – QUESTIONABLE

CLEMSON

They're "all in." (Sorry, too easy.)

DUKE

QB Thaddeus Lewis (leg) -- Probable

RB Re'quan Boyette (leg) -- Questionable

DT Vince Oghobaase (leg) -- Questionable

WR Johnny Williams (knee) -- Questionable

RB Kyle Griswould (leg) -- OUT FOR SEASON

OG Mitchell Lederman (foot) -- OUT FOR SEASON

QB Sean Renfree (knee) -- OUT FOR SEASON

WR Tyree Watkins (leg) -- OUT FOR SEASON

S Anthony Young-Wiseman (knee) -- OUT FOR SEASON

FLORIDA STATE

Out

76 OT Garrett Faircloth (hip)

70 OT Antwane Greenlee (knee)

51 LB Aaron Gresham (knee)

44 LB Maurice Harris (neck)*

62 OG Rodney Hudson (knee)

97 DT Demonte McAllister (knee)

81 TE Caz Piurowski (knee)*

7 QB Christian Ponder (shoulder)*

74 OT John Prior (knee)

27 CB Xavier Rhodes (thumb)

11 LB Vince Williams (back)

Questionable

9 WR Richard Goodman (groin)

30 ROV Jajuan Harley (hamstring)

Probable

94 DT Justin Mincey (knee)

* - out for the season

GEORGIA TECH

Out

Austin Barrick, r-Jr., OT (heel)

Kevin Cone, r-Jr., WR (ankle)

Malcolm Munroe, r-Fr., LB (knee)

Probable

Sean Bedford, r-Jr., C (ankle)

Omoregie Uzzi, r-Fr., OL (back)

Anthony Barnes, r-Jr., LB

Out For Season

Robert Hall, r-Jr., DE (knee)

Kyle Jackson, r-So., LB (foot)

Cooper Taylor, So., S (undisclosed)

MIAMI

Probable

RB Lee Chambers – Lower Extremity

WR Thearon Collier – Lower Extremity

DB Sam Shields – Lower Extremity

Doubtful

OL Jason Fox – Illness

Out

FB Patrick Hill – Lower Extremity

Surgery and Out for the Season

DL Dyron Dye – Lower Extremity

DL Marcus Forston – Lower Extremity

LB Jordan Futch – Lower Extremity

TE Richard Gordon – Upper Extremity

LB Shayon Green – Lower Extremity

DE Gavin Hardin – Upper Extremity

DB Ryan Hill – Upper Extremity

DB JoJo Nicolas – Upper Extremity

DE Adewale Ojomo – Jaw

NC STATE

OUT

Audi Augustin, DE - elbow

Mike Glennon, QB - clavicle

DeAndre Morgan, CB - concussion

OUT FOR SEASON

Mario Carter, TE - knee

Ryan Cheek, LB - hip

Denzelle Good, OL – shoulder

T.J. Graham, WR – stress fracture/leg

Steven Howard, WR - knee

Nate Irving, LB - leg

Colby Jackson, FB – knee

R.J. Mattes, OG - knee

Everett Proctor, QB – shoulder

Jeff Rieskamp, DE – sports hernia

Rashard Smith, CB - knee

Javon Walker, S – knee

James Washington, HB - knee

NORTH CAROLINA

Out

Joshua Adams WR Shoulder

AJ Blue RB/QB Knee

Curtis Campbell DB Wrist

David Collins OL Foot

Shaun Draughn TB Shoulder

Carl Gaskins OT Knee

Matt Merletti S Knee

Trevor Stuart DS Knee

Ryan Taylor TE Knee

Jamal Womble RB Wrist

Questionable

Anthony Elzy RB Ankle

Devon Ramsay FB Ankle

Gene Robinson CB Back

VIRGINIA

Out

Isaac Cain (foot)

Raynard Horne (back)

Torrey Mack (ankle)

Doubtful

Darren Childs (ankle)

Questionable

Jared Green (shoulder)

Mikell Simpson (leg)

Probable

Daniel Childress (ankle)

Matt Conrath (ankle)

Connor McCartin (shoulder)

Jameel Sewell (shoulder)

Patrick Slebonick (leg)

VIRGINIA TECH

Probable:

Beau Warren (knee)

Ed Wang (knee)