ESPN College Football

The hope and concern series continues today with Maryland:

Biggest reason for hope: Quarterback Danny O’Brien

In a season of change at the quarterback position throughout the ACC, Maryland returns the league’s 2010 Rookie of the Year. First-year coach Randy Edsall praised O’Brien throughout the spring, and because O’Brien is such a true student of the game, Maryland fans can be confident in his ability to adjust quickly to the new terminology and philosophy under first-year coordinator Gary Crowton. O’Brien was 7-3 in his first season as a starter, completed 57 percent of his passes and only had eight interceptions.

Biggest reason for concern: Turnover

Not only did Maryland lose former coach Ralph Friedgen, the ACC’s 2010 Coach of the Year and seven of his assistants, the Terps also bid farewell to 10 starters – 11 if you include the double-duty of kicker/punter Travis Baltz. Offensively, the loss of big-play receiver Torrey Smith, who caught 128 passes for 1,879 yards and 17 touchdowns over the past two seasons, will require some adjustment. Defensively, the Terps will miss linebackers Alex Wujciak and Adrian Moten. There will be plenty of new faces in new places when Maryland opens the season on Labor Day against Miami, and how quickly everyone adjusts to their new roles -- and their new coaches -- will determine whether or not they’re in or out of this season’s ACC race.

More in this series:

• Boston College
• Clemson
• Duke
• Florida State
• Georgia Tech

2010 overall record: 9-4

2010 conference record: 5-3

Returning starters

Offense: 7, defense: 7, punter/kicker 0

Top returners

QB Danny O’Brien, RB Davin Meggett, WR Kerry Boykins, WR Kevin Dorsey, DT Joe Vellano, LB Kenny Tate, LB Demetrius Hartsfield, DT A.J. Francis, CB Cameron Chism

Key losses

WR Torrey Smith, WR Adrian Cannon, RB Da’Rel Scott, LB Alex Wujciak, LB Adrian Moten, SS Antwine Perez, P/PK Travis Baltz

2010 statistical leaders (* returners)

Rushing: Meggett* (720 yards)

Passing: O’Brien* (2,438 yds)

Receiving: Smith (1,055 yds)

Tackles: Wujciak (117)

Sacks: Tate* (3.5)

Interceptions: Moten (4)

Spring answers

1. Receivers answering the call. Maryland lost its top two receivers from 2010, but three emerged as potential go-to players this spring. Ronnie Tyler, Kerry Boykins and Kevin Dorsey were the lead candidates to become O’Brien’s favorite target this fall, and Quintin McCree, who has missed the Tuesday and Thursday practices for study hall, is the leading returner with 16 catches. None of them have been in a starting role before, but all of them proved to be capable hands this spring.

2. A 'general' consensus. Some players within the program have nicknamed first-year coach Randy Edsall "the general" for his strict rules and high expectations, but they seem to have bought in. Overall, the team has adjusted well to the staff changes and embraced the new regime, its style, schemes and philosophies. Edsall has banned hats, earrings and do-rags in the football building, and facial hair must be neatly trimmed.

3. Kenny Tate’s move a good one. The biggest position change of the spring was Tate from safety to linebacker, and Tate showed this spring it was a good move -- especially following the departures of veterans Adrian Moten and Alex Wujciak. Tate adjusted well to the “star” position, a cross between strong safety and outside linebacker. The move also indicated the staff is confident in Eric Franklin and Matt Robinson as the starting safeties.

Fall questions

1. What will this team’s identity be? The players spent this spring learning new schemes and terminology, much of which has been kept under wraps by Edsall. O’Brien has said the offense will be more up-tempo, and has made every effort to study and learn the system this spring, but executing it in games remains a question. The defense also made a transition under first-year coordinator Todd Bradford.

2. Can the offensive line stay healthy? It’s been an injury-prone group the past two seasons and this spring wasn’t much different. 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.

3. Who will be the starting fullback? Taylor Watson decided this spring to graduate and leave the team, leaving Rahsaan Moore and Haroon Brown as the lead candidates. True freshman Tyler Cierski, rated the No. 2 fullback in his class by ESPN Recruiting, should add to the competition this summer.

Maryland is the last team in the ACC to finish its spring practices as the Terps will hold their annual spring game at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday in Byrd Stadium. Maryland will play four 12-minute quarters. Here are three storylines to watch:

The ACC’s 2010 Rookie of the Year: With so many new faces at quarterback stealing the headlines this spring, Maryland quarterback Danny O’Brien has been practicing under the radar. He’s one of the top returning starters at his position, though, and this will be the first chance for the public to see how much progress he’s made under first-year coordinator Gary Crowton.

The kicking game: An underrated yet extremely important phase of the game remains a major question for the Terps. Maryland has to replace a four-year starting kicker/punter in Travis Baltz. Nick Ferrara is one to watch in the spring game, as walk-on Michael Tart is the only other kicker currently on the roster. Both players have been punting and kicking this spring, but Ferrara has only participated on Saturdays because of study halls on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Backup competitions: While the starting lineup is mostly set, coach Randy Edsall has said this will be one final spring audition for many of the backups. The staff is still looking for a third running back, they’re not settled yet at backup safety or linebacker, and because of injuries still need to figure out the two-deep on the offensive line. The rotation on the defensive line also remains a question, so numerous players should see snaps on Saturday.

Brackets are not good for my heart or my sanity. My Final Four: Florida, Kansas, Syracuse and UConn. Don't get me started on Florida and Kansas. I can't let it go ...

• Maryland fans, meet your new "star," Kenny Tate.
• One of the biggest question marks facing the Terps this spring is who will fill the shoes of punter/kicker Travis Baltz?
• Virginia Tech's athletic department is spending more than $400K to accommodate coach Frank Beamer's coaching changes this year.
• How many players will it take to compensate for the loss of Clemson defensive end Da'Quan Bowers? Two? Three?
• "The Fifth Quarter" movie received two-and-a-half stars in this review.
• Somehow, Duke found a way to get younger, but coach David Cutcliffe was still encouraged by what he saw this spring.
• Cutcliffe is ready to have some fun on offense this fall.
• Expectations for Miami offensive lineman Seantrel Henderson are over the top.
• Former Georgia Tech kicker Scott Blair got rid of the negativity in his head and is hoping now for a shot at the NFL.

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.

COLLEGE PARK, Md. -- Here's a look at the first half:

Turning point: An interception return for a touchdown was nullified by a 15-yard penalty for unnecessary roughness when FSU's Greg Reid delivered a mind-numbing hit on Da'Rel Scott. It sustained a scoring drive for Maryland that tied the game at 10.

Stat of the half: FSU and Maryland have combined for six trips to the red zone and come away with two total touchdowns. The Seminoles and Terrapins have relied on their defense and placekickers, Dustin Hopkins and Travis Baltz.


Best player in the half: Maryland quarterback Danny O'Brien. Maryland's offensive tempo is keeping Florida State off-balance and limiting the Noles' substitutions. Florida State's defense seemed caught a little off-guard in the first half, but O'Brien has been poised in executing the offense. He has completed 10 of 19 passes for 117 yards and a touchdown.

Three ACC players were among 121 semifinalists for the 2010 William V. Campbell Trophy (formerly known as the Draddy Trophy), endowed by HealthSouth, and the candidates for the 2010 NFF National Scholar-Athlete Awards. Boston College offensive lineman Anthony Castonzo, Florida State quarterback Christian Ponder, and Maryland kicker/punter Travis Baltz all made the cut.

From the release:

Nominated by their schools, which are limited to one nominee each, semifinalists must be a senior or graduate student in their final year of eligibility, have a GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale, have outstanding football ability as a first-team player or significant contributor, and have demonstrated strong leadership and citizenship. The trophy was renamed last fall in honor of Bill Campbell, the chairman of Intuit, former player and head coach at Columbia University and the 2004 recipient of the NFF’s Gold Medal.

The NFF Awards Committee will select up to 15 finalists and announce the results on Oct. 28. Each finalist will be recognized as part of the 2010 NFF National Scholar-Athlete Class, receiving an $18,000 post-graduate scholarship. The Campbell Trophy winner will have his scholarship increased to $25,000 and receive a 25-pound bronze trophy at the NFF’s Annual Awards Dinner on Dec. 7 at the prestigious Waldorf-Astoria in New York City.

MARYLAND

2009 overall record: 2-10

2009 conference record: 1-7

Returning starters

Offense: 7, defense: 5, punter/kicker 2

Top returners

WR Torrey Smith, C Paul Pinegar, RB Da’Rel Scott, WR Adrian Cannon, LB Alex Wujciak, LB Demetrius Hartsfield, LB Adrian Moten, P Travis Baltz, CB Cameron Chism

Key losses

LT Bruce Campbell, C Phil Costa, QB Chris Turner, FS Terrell Skinner, CB Anthony Wiseman, SS Jamari McCollough

2009 statistical leaders (* returners)

Rushing: Scott* (425 yards)

Passing: Turner (2,069 yds)

Receiving: Smith* (824 yards)

Tackles: Wujciak* (131)

Sacks: Moten* (6)

Interceptions: Chism* (4)

Spring answers

1. Separation at quarterback. Maryland wrapped up spring with Jamarr Robinson as its new quarterback, Danny O’Brien his backup and C.J. Brown No. 3. Robinson made good decisions, threw the ball pretty well and limited his turnovers despite two picks in the spring game. He has a quiet confidence and started to become more of a leader, taking control of the huddle.

2. Growing confidence in the offensive line. The staff feels much better about this group than it did at the start of spring. The lineup isn’t 100 percent settled, but if the Terps played tomorrow, Justin Gilbert would start at left tackle, R.J. Dill at right tackle, Andrew Gonnella at left guard, and Paul Pinegar at center. For the past couple of weeks, Justin Lewis and Bennett Fulper have shared time at right guard. Lamar Young has a chance to work his way into the rotation after missing the spring for offseason shoulder surgery.

3. Potential on the defensive line. Maryland lost three starters to graduation on the defensive line, but found some capable replacements this spring. Defensive tackle Joe Vellano, who missed the first half of 2009 and never quite got back to full speed, was one of the surprises this spring. Coach Ralph Friedgen praised Vellano, but questioned whether or not he can maintain that success on Saturdays this fall. Overall, the staff seemed to settle on Vellano and A.J. Francis at tackle, along with Zachariah Kerr.

Fall questions

1. Depth in the secondary. The Terps will have three new starters, but the safety position remains the biggest concern, enough so that Maryland could turn to a true freshman to help. The staff feels good about safeties Antwine Perez and Kenny Tate, but they need some help behind them and would like to solidify a fourth corner this summer.

2. How will the offensive line hold up? Yes, they made progress this spring, but the group has been a weak link. Part of that can be attributed to inexperience, but it’s an older group this year. Maryland has enough talent at running back to help take some pressure off of Robinson in his first full season as starter, but the offense will only improve as much as the players up front.

3. Will Maryland get back to the postseason? After just one win in conference play, Friedgen’s future at Maryland was in doubt. The pressure is on, but there has been a renewed sense of commitment and determination this offseason. Maryland’s season opener against Navy could set the tone for the whole season.

ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. recently released his top five returning players at every position and the ACC is well-represented. Not only is this a sneak peek at the 2011 NFL draft, but it's also a good way to highlight some of the top players to watch in the conference this spring.

It's also a black-and-white reminder of just how high the expectations are for North Carolina's defense. Kiper has three Tar Heels ranked No. 1 at their respective positions and five ranked overall. (Not sure people realized just how much TE Zack Pianalto's injury last year hurt the Heels.) There's no shortage of NFL talent for Butch Davis to work with. It's a different story for Paul Johnson, though, this year.

Here's a look at the players who ranked among Kiper's top five at each position:

• No. 4 QB Christian Ponder, FSU
• No. 4 FB Marcus Sims, North Alabama (Former FSU player)
• No. 3 WR Leonard Hankerson, Miami
• No. 3 TE Zack Pianalto, UNC
• No. 1 OT Anthony Castonzo, Boston College -- Here's what Kiper had to say about AC:

Castonzo was No. 3 on this list last week. He should be a focus of this summer and fall, and is one of those athletic types an NFL coach like Mike Shanahan likes to use.

• No. 1 OG Rodney Hudson, FSU
• No. 5 OG Orlando Franklin, Miami
• No. 4 C Ryan McMahon, FSU
• No. 2 DE Allen Bailey, Miami
• No. 1 DT Marvin Austin, UNC -- Kiper's take:

Austin is going to be part of an excellent defense next season in Chapel Hill. I was a little surprised he opted to return, given how highly many people regard him, but he avoids being part of an immensely deep class and could do extremely well if he stays healthy.

• No. 1 ILB Quan Sturdivant, UNC
• No. 4 ILB Alex Wujciak, Maryland
• No. 1 OLB Bruce Carter, UNC
• No. 5 OLB Nate Irving, NC State
• No. 1 CB Ras-I Dowling, Virginia
• No. 4 CB Rashad Carmichael, Virginia Tech
• No. 1 S DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson
• No. 2 S Deunta Williams, UNC

McDaniel hadn't previously cracked any of my lists, but he's long been on the radar of NFL personnel folks. Next season should be his official coming-out party.

• No. 5 P Travis Baltz, Maryland

Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich

BOSTON COLLEGE

OUT FOR SEASON

LB Mark Herzlich (illness)

FOR NC STATE GAME

WR Ifeanyi Momah (knee) – OUT

TE Jordon McMichael (hip) – DOUBTFUL

LB Will Thompson (shoulder) – DOUBTFUL

FB James McCluskey (Achilles) – QUESTIONABLE

FS Okechukwu Okoroha (leg) – PROBABLE

DT Austin Giles (back) – PROBABLE

CB Roderick Rollins (Leg) – PROBABLE

DE Alex Albright (ankle) – PROBABLE

DT Damik Scafe (neck/shoulder) – PROBABLE

CLEMSON

I don't have an injury report, but I do have the following lineup changes:

After practice Thursday coach Dabo Swinney announced that Dalton Freeman would start at center. Scotty Cooper will miss the game while still recovering from a concussion suffered at Maryland. Daniel Andrews will move up to second-team strongside linebacker behind Kevin Alexander.

GEORGIA TECH

Out

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

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

Questionable

Anthony Egbuniwe, Jr., DE (illness)

Cooper Taylor, So., S (undisclosed)

Out For Season

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

MARYLAND

Out for season:

Tyler Bowen (foot)

Nolan Carroll (leg)

Out:

Travis Baltz (ankle)

Masengo Kabongo (leg)

Da’Rel Scott (wrist)

Questionable:

Bruce Campbell (leg)

Demetrius Hartsfield (hand)

MIAMI

Probable

RB Lee Chambers – Lower Extremity

RB Graig Cooper – Lower Extremity

Doubtful

OL Joel Figueroa – Lower Extremity

Out

FB Patrick Hill – Lower Extremity

DL Josh Holmes – Lower Extremity

WR Aldarius Johnson – Upper Extremity

DL Eric Moncur – Lower Extremity

DB JoJo Nicolas – Upper Extremity

DB Randy Phillips – Upper 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

DE Adewale Ojomo – Jaw

NC STATE

OUT FOR SEASON

Mario Carter, TE - knee

Ryan Cheek, LB - hip

Denzelle Good, OL - shoulder

Nate Irving, LB - leg

Colby Jackson, FB - knee

Everett Proctor, QB - shoulder

Javon Walker, S - knee

OUT

Jeff Rieskamp, DE – hip

Jesse Riley, DB - knee

VIRGINIA

Out

Javaris Brown (ankle)

Doubtful

Mikell Simpson (neck)

Questionable

none

Probable

Landon Bradley (knee)

BJ Cabbell (ankle)

Patch Duda (flu)

Mike Parker (knee)

Zane Parr (ankle)

Brandon Woods (foot)

VIRGINIA TECH

Out for Season

Darren Evans (ACL)

Probable

Marcus Davis (ankle)

Mark Muncey (knee)

Sergio Render (pec strain)

Eddie Whitley (ankle)

Ryan Williams (illness)

Out

Brandon Dillard (ankle)

Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich

If you don't see it, that's because I didn't get it ...

BOSTON COLLEGE

OUT FOR SEASON

LB Mark Herzlich (illness)

FOR VIRGINIA TECH GAME

WR Ifeanyi Momah (knee) – OUT

TE Jordon McMichael (hip) – OUT

FS Okechukwu Okoroha (leg) – OUT

LB Will Thompson (shoulder) – DOUBTFUL

DT Austin Giles (back) – DOUBTFUL

FB James McCluskey (Achilles) – QUESTIONABLE

CB Roderick Rollins (Leg) – PROBABLE

DE Alex Albright (ankle) – PROBABLE

DUKE

RB Jay Hollingsworth (ankle) -- Probable

OT Jarrod Holt (concussion) -- Probable

RB Kyle Griswould (leg) -- OUT

CB Randez James (hand) -- OUT

LB Abraham Kromah (leg) -- OUT

WR Tyree Watkins (leg) -- OUT

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

FLORIDA STATE

OUT

FB Daniel Gard (knee)

OT Antwane Greenlee (knee)

LB Aaron Gresham (knee)

OT John Prior (knee)

LB Vince Williams (back)

QUESTIONABLE

DT Justin Mincey (knee)

CB Patrick Robinson (ankle)

PROBABLE

ROV Korey Mangum (shoulder)

GEORGIA TECH

Out

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

Doubtful

Cooper Taylor, So., S (undisclosed)

Questionable

Dominique Reese, Jr., S (shoulder)

Marcus Wright, So., RB (shoulder

Out For Season

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

MARYLAND

Out for season:

Tyler Bowen (foot)

Nolan Carroll (leg)

Out:

Travis Baltz (ankle)

Mike Barbour (leg)

Louis Berman (leg)

Bruce Campbell (leg)

Danny Edwards (concussion)

Da’Rel Scott (wrist)

Joe Vellano (foot)

MIAMI

Probable

DL Olivier Vernon – Lower Extremity

Questionable

RB Graig Cooper - Lower Extremity

LS/TE Jake Byrne - Illness

Doubtful

DT Marcus Forston – Lower Extremity

DL Steven Wesley – Lower Extremity

Out

DL Dyron Dye - Leg

TE Richard Gordon – Upper Extremity

FB Patrick Hill – Lower Extremity

DB Ryan Hill – Upper Extremity

DB JoJo Nicolas – Upper Extremity

DE Adewale Ojomo – Jaw

DB Randy Phillips – Upper Extremity

Surgery and Out for Season

DE Gavin Hardin – Upper Extremity

LB Shayon Green – Lower Extremity

NORTH CAROLINA

Out (Season)

Carl Gaskins OT Knee

Matt Merletti S Knee

Trevor Stuart DS Knee

Out (Game)

Lowell Dyer C Shoulder

Doubtful

Zack Pianalto TE Foot

Ryan Taylor TE Knee

Questionable

Josh Adams WR Shoulder

Kyle Jolly OT Ankle

Mike Paulus QB Shoulder

Devon Ramsay FB Knee

Probable

Jonathan Cooper OG Ankle

Anthony Elzy FB Shoulder

Linwan Euwell LB Ankle

NC STATE

OUT FOR SEASON

Mario Carter, TE - knee

Ryan Cheek, LB - hip

Denzelle Good, OL - shoulder

Nate Irving, LB - leg

Colby Jackson, FB - knee

Everett Proctor, QB - shoulder

OUT

Jeff Rieskamp, DE - hip

Javon Walker, S - knee

QUESTIONABLE

Rashard Smith, CB - ankle

VIRGINIA TECH

Out for Season

Darren Evans (ACL)

Probable

Nekos Brown (illness)

Blake DeChristopher (ankle)

John Graves (ankle)

Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich

Here are this week's injury reports from the schools that sent them out by midnight on Thursday:

BOSTON COLLEGE

WR Ifeanyi Momah (knee) – OUT

LB Will Thompson (shoulder) – DOUBTFUL

FB James McCluskey (Achilles) – DOUBTFUL

CB Roderick Rollins (Leg) – DOUBTFUL

TE Jordon McMichael (Leg) –PROBABLE

CLEMSON

Questionable

Chris Hairston, OT, knee

Probable

Miguel Chavis, DT, ankle

DUKE

RB Re'quan Boyette (leg) -- Probable

RB Jay Hollingsworth (ankle) -- Probable

OG Mitchell Lederman (leg) -- Probable

DT Vince Oghobaase (leg) -- Probable

OT Jarrod Holt (concussion) -- Questionable

RB Desmond Scott (leg) -- Questionable

RB Kyle Griswould (leg) -- OUT

CB Randez James (hand) -- OUT

WR Tyree Watkins (leg) -- OUT

FLORIDA STATE

OUT

FB Daniel Gard (knee)

OT Antwane Greenlee (knee)

LB Aaron Gresham (knee)

OT John Prior (knee)

LB Vince Williams (back)

QUESTIONABLE

DT Justin Mincey (knee)

PROBABLE

DT Moses McCray (elbow)

DT Jacobbi McDaniel (knee)

GEORGIA TECH

Out

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

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

Doubtful

Cooper Taylor, So., S (undisclosed)

Questionable

Dominique Reese, Jr., S (undisclosed)

Probable

Jaybo Shaw, So., QB (broken collarbone)

MARYLAND

Out for season:

Tyler Bowen (foot)

Nolan Carroll (leg)

Out:

Travis Baltz (ankle)

Louis Berman (leg)

Caleb Porzel (leg)

Joe Vellano (foot)

MIAMI

Probable

RB Lee Chambers – Lower Extremity

DT Marcus Forston – Lower Extremity

WR Aldarius Johnson - Lower Extremity

Doubtful

TE Richard Gordon – Upper Extremity

Out

FB Pat Hill – Lower Extremity

DL Dyron Dye - Lower Extremity

DB JoJo Nicolas – Upper Extremity

DB Randy Phillips – Upper Extremity

DE Adewale Ojomo – Jaw

Surgery and Out for Season

DE Gavin Hardin – Upper Extremity

LB Shayon Green – Lower Extremity

NC STATE

OUT FOR SEASON

Mario Carter, TE - knee

Denzelle Good, OL - shoulder

Nate Irving, LB - leg

Colby Jackson, FB - knee

Everett Proctor, QB - shoulder

OUT

Jeff Rieskamp, DE - hip

Rashard Smith, CB - ankle

Javon Walker, S - knee

NORTH CAROLINA

Out (Season)

Carl Gaskins OL Knee

Matt Merletti DB Knee

Trevor Stuart DS Knee

Out (Game)

Lowell Dyer C Shoulder

Zack Pianalto TE Foot

Ryan Taylor TE Knee

Doubtful

Linwan Euwall LB Ankle

Questionable

Joshua Adams WR Shoulder

Jonathan Cooper OG Ankle

Anthony Elzy FB Shoulder

VIRGINIA TECH

Out for Season

Darren Evans (ACL)

Probable

Blake DeChristopher (ankle)

Davon Morgan (shoulder)

Dyrell Roberts (hamstring)

Demetrius Taylor (calf)

Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich

The ACC has released its preseason all-conference team last month, now ESPN.com is releasing ours. Here's the final version with minimal tweaks from the original ballot:

OFFENSE

QB Riley Skinner, Wake Forest
RB C.J. Spiller, Clemson
RB Jonathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech
WR Jacoby Ford, Clemson
WR LaRon Byrd, Miami
TE Greg Boone, Virginia Tech
OT Anthony Castonzo, Boston College
OT Jason Fox, Miami
OG Thomas Austin, Clemson
OG Rodney Hudson, Florida State
C Ryan McMahon, Florida State
PK Matt Bosher, Miami

DEFENSE
DE Willie Young, NC State
DE Jason Worilds, Virginia Tech
DT Vince Oghobaase, Duke
DT John Russell, Wake Forest
LB Sean Spence, Miami
LB Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
LB Dekoda Watson, Florida State
CB Stephan Virgil, Virginia Tech
CB Patrick Robinson, Florida State
S Morgan Burnett, Georgia Tech
S Kam Chancellor, Virginia Tech
P Travis Baltz, Maryland
SP C.J. Spiller, Clemson

Posted by ESPN.com's Heather Dinich

Here are the reports that came in from Wednesday's practices around the league, as reported by each school's sports information office:

CLEMSON

Clemson had its second day of two-a-day practices on Wednesday. The Tigers worked for two hours and 15 minutes in the morning and for an hour and a half in the evening.

Much of the day was spent reviewing the film from Tuesday's scrimmage and correcting mistakes. Coach Dabo Swinney felt better about his team after watching the film on Tuesday afternoon and evening.

"We played better than I thought," said Swinney. "I was very disappointed with the penalties [on offense] and a lack of attention to detail immediately after the scrimmage. And I still feel that way about those mistakes. But after watching the film we played better overall than I thought."

Swinney was impressed with the performance of his defense after the scrimmage on Tuesday and he was still happy with that performance on Wednesday.

"We have a chance to be pretty salty on defense. I look out there and really can't tell the difference between the units. I was talking to Jamie Cumbie yesterday and he said it doesn't make any difference who starts, they are just waiting to have their name called.

"There is great depth on the defensive front and the secondary. The linebackers are doing well also. I was really impressed with Kavell Conner's performance on Tuesday. He has had a terrific preseason."

(Read full post)