ESPN College Football

Leaving one's job can be pretty awkward. For college football coaches, it usually is. Rarely do we see an amiable mutual parting in these situations.

As we continue to take a look at the coaches we love to hate this week, we're looking at SEC coaches who have left their respective schools in a lurch.

We already discussed Bobby Petrino's more than awkward departure at Arkansas, so we're going with three other recent departures that happened unexpectedly.

Let the bad memories return:

Lane Kiffin, Tennessee: He left for USC in 2010 after one season at Tennessee. Kiffin replaced longtime Tennessee coach Phil Fulmer in 2009 and was immediately confrontational with other SEC coaches, and that sort of arrogance was something that had to be a little attractive to Tennessee's fan base. However, his lack of production on the field made his pompous attitude laughable. Through all the chirping, he delivered a 7-6 season, which might go down as the most celebrated 7-6 season in SEC history. He talked so much about all the good things he'd do at Tennessee, but whined about not having enough talent. Then he built up his first signing class, but it eventually turned into nothing more than a paper tiger. Kiffin suddenly left Tennessee for USC just three weeks before national signing day in 2010. During his uncomfortable news conference, in which he announced his departure, Tennessee fans showed up in droves to wish him a not-so-safe trip to Cali. Kiffin left under the protection of police and left Tennessee with an NCAA cloud hanging over its head, which got the school a visit from the NCAA infractions committee. Kiffin and his staff's recruiting practices prompted an investigation that resulted in two years of probation for Tennessee. The NCAA found that Kiffin and his staff had committed 12 secondary violations, but Kiffin wasn't penalized. Derek Dooley took over for Kiffin in 2010 and has dealt with a laundry list of player and attrition issues. He has gone 11-14 in his two years.

Urban Meyer, Florida: He announced that he'd be stepping away from coaching in 2010, but is now coaching at Ohio State. There was no question that Meyer was one of the best coaches to swing through Gainesville. During his six-year tenure, he won two national championships and took the Gators to three SEC championship games. But it was the way he left that sent Gator Nation into a frenzy. First, he announced his retirement for health reasons a couple of weeks after the loss to Alabama in the 2009 SEC championship game. His retirement barely lasted 24 hours, but Meyer and Florida were never the same. The 2010 season was a major step back, as Florida went 8-5, and Meyer stepped away again after the regular season concluded. Meyer said he was taking time off because of his health and his desire to spend more time with his family. Then, he took over at Ohio State (one of his dream jobs) for the fired Jim Tressel. But it wasn't just leaving Florida for a Big Ten school barely a year later that upset Florida fans. It was the fact that he left new coach Will Muschamp with what Meyer himself deemed a broken program. Muschamp dealt with discipline and attrition issues during his first season, in which he went 7-6. While Meyer was the king of winning the recruiting ranking game, he too often missed on character.

Tommy Tuberville, Ole Miss: He left Ole Miss after the 1998 season for Auburn. Tuberville took over a struggling Ole Miss program in 1995 and helped the Rebels to three winning seasons in four years. But four years wasn't what the Ole Miss faithful expected to get from Tuberville; he made it seem that he would be there for much longer when he uttered those now-infamous words: "They’ll have to carry me out of here in a pine box." That pine box apparently had to be filled with money, as just a couple days after he emphatically stated that he wanted to stay in Oxford and be the Rebels' coach, he took a pay raise that doubled his salary and headed off to Auburn. Soon after Tuberville left without so much as telling his players, Ole Miss fans donned T-shirts inspired by the movie "Liar, Liar" with Tuberville's face on them instead of Jim Carrey's. Tuberville went 7-3 against his old team during his time at Auburn. David Cutcliffe, Tuberville's replacement, guided Ole Miss to five winning seasons in his six years, including a 10-win season that ended with a Cotton Bowl victory.

Now that spring practices are over, it’s time to re-evaluate the ACC pecking order for 2012. There wasn’t much change at the top from the pre-spring power rankings, but Georgia Tech did get a slight bump, along with two teams on Tobacco Road. Here’s a look at the latest ACC power rankings:

1. Florida State: The Noles’ defensive line should be one of the deepest and best in the conference, if not the country, and they’ve got an outstanding quarterback in EJ Manuel. If the young offensive line can mature quickly and the running game improves from 2011, there’s no reason the Seminoles shouldn’t be contending for the ACC title.

2. Clemson: The Tigers could open the season without star receiver Sammy Watkins, who is awaiting his punishment after he was arrested on misdemeanor drug charges, but as long as he’s in the lineup and the offensive line is playing well, Clemson has enough talent to defend its 2011 ACC title.

3. Virginia Tech: It’s hard to forget how the Hokies fared against Clemson in two meetings last season, but they enter this season with the better defense. The question is how quickly the revamped offensive line can come together, and who will emerge as the next star running back.

4. NC State: This team is quietly preparing a championship-caliber roster. Quarterback Mike Glennon is still under the radar, and he’s got an experienced offensive line to work with. This is a team that could surprise some people.

5. Georgia Tech: The Jackets had a promising spring, but the defensive line has to replace two of three starters, and last season’s atrocious special teams still have a lot to prove. One thing is for sure: These guys will be able to run the ball on just about anyone.

6. Wake Forest: Much like the rest of its division, Wake Forest’s success will hinge in part on how quickly the new starters on the offensive line come together. The Demon Deacons have an experienced and much-improved quarterback in Tanner Price, and last year they made a statement that they’re not to be overlooked in the ACC race.

7. North Carolina: The two biggest questions for the Tar Heels are how quickly they can adapt to and execute a new system under first-year coach Larry Fedora, and where they will find their motivation now that the NCAA has banned them from the postseason. This spring revealed a positive outlook for the new offense, which should give quarterback Bryn Renner a chance to shine.

8. Virginia: The ACC’s 2011 Coach of the Year has quickly raised expectations, but they should be tempered because seven starters have to be replaced on defense. Michael Rocco is the undisputed starting quarterback -- unless Alabama transfer Phillip Sims has something to say about it.

9. Miami: With Stephen Morris out this spring with a back injury, quarterback transfer Ryan Williams had a chance to impress the coaches. The position is one of many questions still looming for the Canes, a young team still waiting for closure from an NCAA investigation.

10. Maryland: The Terps had a good spring and were able to move forward with players who wanted to be there. It was a positive vibe, but coach Randy Edsall is still tangled in the shadow of last year’s two-win season. He’ll have to improve upon it without the services of former quarterback Danny O’Brien.

11. Boston College: Several offseason staff changes were embraced this spring, and quarterback Chase Rettig made strides under yet another offensive coordinator, Doug Martin. The Eagles have to find a way to win without two of their most valuable players in running back Montel Harris, who was dismissed from the team, and linebacker Luke Kuechly, who left early for the NFL.

12. Duke: The Blue Devils had a good spring and are still buying into the philosophies of coach David Cutcliffe. They’ve been on the verge of making the postseason before, but fans are looking for them to finally break through in Year 5 under Cutcliffe. Quarterback Sean Renfree can get them there if they minimize the turnovers and play better defense.

The outside perception of Duke football seems to hinge on whether coach David Cutcliffe will ever get the Blue Devils back to a bowl game.

For Cutcliffe, though, the picture is bigger, the goal more challenging than simply reaching that seemingly elusive six-win mark.

“Our whole emphasis is about getting there and consistently staying there,” Cutcliffe said. “That’s the change we’re looking for. It’s never been about that magic year for me. It’s about knowing we have a damn good program.

“Don’t think Duke is a flash in the pan,” he said. “Instead of losing to Virginia Tech by four, win by three. Instead of losing to Wake by one, win by 10. Then we’ll know Duke has changed.”

Will 2012 be the start of the turnaround?

As Cutcliffe prepares to enter his fifth season, more should be expected. Duke returns 41 players who have played significant snaps on both offense and defense, not just special teams. The primary ball carriers return, along with a three-year starting quarterback in Sean Renfree, and one of the league’s top receivers in Conner Vernon. The offensive line should be more athletic, and the defense still young but more experienced. Duke also recruited several players who could contribute immediately.

Although the team has progressed under Cutcliffe’s watch during each of the past four seasons, Duke has still failed to reach the six-win mark, coming as close as five wins in 2009, and settling back into the Duke stereotype with back-to-back 3-9 finishes each of the past two seasons. While fans tend to zero in on the final results, the players and coaches continue to believe the process is inching them closer to long-term success.

“It shows out there,” Vernon said. “I’m sure you can ask any team in the ACC that it’s shown, and it’s something that they can’t take Duke for granted anymore. Even though the win-loss column may not show it, you can tell teams are respecting Duke a lot more. It’s only going to get better.”

Cutcliffe has told them, though, that it has to be better than good. He said he still has concerns about his players being physical enough up front on defense, and being able to limit the big plays on defense while at the same time creating explosive plays on offense.

“We were a good team a year ago with a bad record,” Cutcliffe said. “We have to be better than good, because we’ve got Clemson and Florida State from the other side, which are obviously two of the more talented teams in this league. We’ve got Miami, we’ve got North Carolina. We’ve got Virginia Tech, Stanford. I could go on and on. We’re playing a really vicious schedule. That’s just part of the equation. You’ve got to play beyond good.”

It seems to be the fans need convincing more than the players. On paper, Duke still looks like Duke: 115th in the country in rushing offense, No. 108 in turnover margin, No. 93 in scoring offense and No. 90 in scoring defense.

There’s no shortage of motivation in Durham, but it goes beyond the numbers.

“If they know they’ve paid the price, if they know they’re prepared, they’ll believe,” Cutcliffe said. “Everybody kind of loses sight of what motivating people is. Motivating people, giving them confidence, is to make them earn it themselves. If they have invested enough into it, they’ll come out with fire. I think we’re already becoming believers. … We’ve got to go from believing to knowing we can win.”

When they finally do, then Duke fans will know things have changed.

Duke begins spring practices today with an experienced quarterback in three-year starter Sean Renfree, one of the ACC’s most accomplished receivers in Conner Vernon, and an experienced, more athletic offensive line. So what can Duke fans expect in a season that should feature a wide-open Coastal Division race? I caught up with Vernon on Tuesday to get his take on the Blue Devils this season. Vernon is the only player in ACC history with multiple seasons of 70-plus receptions (73 in 2010; 70 in 2011). With 198 career receptions, he is now 34 catches away from matching the league record of 232 held by Clemson’s Aaron Kelly (2005-08). With 2,675 career receiving yards, Vernon needs 842 yards to equal the conference mark of 3,517 yards held by Florida State’s Peter Warrick (1996-99). He’s a key piece to Duke’s bowl hopes this year, but he’ll be limited a bit this spring because he’s still recovering from an ankle injury he suffered at the end of last season.

Here are the highlights of our conversation:

What’s different about Duke football this year? What can Duke fans be encouraged about?

Conner Vernon: Definitely just how young of a team we were last year, and how a lot of them have really grown up a lot and shown flashes of greatness early. That’s something Coach Cut [David Cutcliffe] has preached a lot about this offseason, about being great, and that good isn’t good enough anymore. A lot of guys have stepped up big, and a lot of young guys have stepped up big. My impression is that that’s created a lot of competition with the older guys and we’re looking forward to starting [today].

You mentioned that Coach Cut said good isn’t good enough at this point. What’s it going to take for you guys to take the next step?

CV: That’s something we’re going to figure out and we’ll find that out as a team. The competition level is going to keep going up at practice, which is going to push more guys. That’s what we need. We have a great recruiting class coming in and last year’s class, a lot of those guys have stepped up and it’s going to be fun. That’s what I think he’s trying to get at, letting guys know we have a lot of guys coming in who are great and are going to push us to the limit and it’s going to be good for all of us.

Just from a personal standpoint, how badly do you want to see all of this hard work finally translate into a bowl game this year?

CV: Oh, more than anything I’ve ever wanted. Not only do the players who have been here for the last four or five years, coaches, staff, Duke University itself, the fans and alums, it’s time to put Duke back on the map, get to that bowl and get over the hump. This whole university and the people around it definitely deserve it.

Because you guys have been so close under Cutcliffe, but it hasn’t happened, why is everyone still believing and buying in?

CV: Because it shows. It shows out there. I’m sure you can ask any team in the ACC that it’s shown and it’s something that they can’t take Duke for granted anymore. Even though the win-loss column may not show it, you can tell teams are respecting Duke a lot more. It’s only going to get better.

I look at what you guys have coming back on offense and it seems pretty good with Sean Renfree being in his third season as a starter. What do you think you guys are capable of this year offensively?

CV: The sky is the limit for us. We have some set offensive goals and we’re hoping to achieve them, but from a passing standpoint and running standpoint, we look very good.

Without [Donovan] Varner and [Cooper] Helfet it seems like you’re the main man out there. How do you feel your role will change out there, not that you haven’t been a productive part of Duke’s offense in recent years?

CV: I think I’m going to have to take more of a leadership role. Cooper and Donovan were leaders on the offense, along with Sean. Just them being seniors as a group and gone, it’s kind of like it’s my turn now. I would say just trying to take more of that role and it’s definitely going to be my biggest challenge this offseason.

You’re 34 catches away from setting a league record, and 842 yards away from another league record. How much do you think about those things and care about them, and are they goals of yours for the season?

CV: They’re definitely subplots of this trip, my four years here. But definitely my first and foremost goal is putting Duke football back on the map and getting to that bowl game and having more wins than losses this year. If the record comes, great, but the only record I’m really worried about is the one for Duke’s team at the end of the year. I’ll do everything in my power to make that happen, and I’m sure if we’re in a bowl game this year those records will be right there behind it. I’m looking forward to the challenge, but Duke comes first before the individual records.

You wouldn’t believe this, but Hallmark was all out of Valentine’s Day cards for ACC coaches. So, I took it upon myself to lighten the mood here in the blogosphere with a little bit o’ love and these personal touch cards.

Dear …

FRANK BEAMER:

The loss to Michigan wasn’t so bad, it’s the 1-5 BCS bowl record that has your fans sad. The 2012 recruiting class should help ease the pain, just try not to lose to Clemson again.

DAVID CUTCLIFFE:

You’ve given it all, your heart and your soul, yet after four seasons we’ve still seen no bowl. This recruiting class is highlighted by athleticism and speed, which is good news for you -- it’s a running game you need.

RANDY EDSALL:

Danny O’Brien has broken your heart, but Stefon Diggs couldn’t bear to part. You win some, you lose some, that’s what they say, but you gotta spread the love if you want players to stay.

LARRY FEDORA:

Welcome to the ACC, where we do things right. That means keep all agents and runners out of our sight. There’s plenty of talent to start with a clean slate, the big question is, can you beat NC State?

JIMBO FISHER:

It’s you and your staff the elite recruits adore, but the rest of the world is still waiting for more. Another national title for that trophy case is the only thing your fans will truly embrace.

AL GOLDEN:

Nevin Shapiro has a whole lot to say, but just don’t you worry ‘bout that NCAA. The worst is behind us, you’ve said before, it’s the fans’ expectations that should concern you more.

JIM GROBE:

An impressive turnaround in 2011 was nice, but to do it again you must protect Tanner Price. Thirty-five sacks has got to hurt, and now four new starters must keep him outta the dirt.

PAUL JOHNSON:

Who needs a playbook? Not CPJ. The master of the option offense can throw his away. It’s defense and special teams that needs some work, and throwing more efficiently certainly couldn’t hurt.

MIKE LONDON:

Coach of the Year and first bowl since ’07? After only two seasons Virginia fans were in heaven. You’ve set the bar high, but there’s one question to me: Can you beat the Hokies, or is it strike three?

TOM O’BRIEN:

Broken bones have held your team back, so keep ‘em healthy and look out for the Pack. FSU and Clemson are getting all of the hype, but when it comes to quarterbacks, Mike Glennon’s just your type.

FRANK SPAZIANI:

They say your seat is hot, and I couldn’t agree more; in 2012 you must win more than four. The offense has been at the heart of your woes, but a new OC could help cure some of those.

DABO SWINNEY:

An ACC title, a top-10 recruiting class and more. There’s only one problem … West Virginia just scored. A new DC just might do the trick, but if you don’t beat South Carolina, Clemson fans will be sick.

We’ve already taken a look at what the recruiting needs were for the Atlantic Division. Let’s shift our attention to the Coastal Division. Here’s a look at where each school’s biggest holes will be in 2012 or are anticipated to be in the near future:

DUKE


Offensive skill positions: After last year’s rare class that didn’t include either a quarterback or running back, both positions are needed in this group. Quarterback Thomas Sirk -- the MVP of the 57th annual Florida Athletic Coaches Association North-South All-Star Football Classic last December -- has already enrolled in school while Shaquille Powell -- a PARADE All-American running back from Las Vegas -- has committed to the program. In addition, with David Cutcliffe’s offense, wide receivers and tight ends also are a priority.

Kicker: Will Snyderwine, who earned first team All-America honors as a junior before struggling through a sub-par season in 2011, graduated, but Duke has a commitment from Ohio native Ross Martin, considered the No. 2 placekicking prospect in the country by ESPN.com.

Safety: With the transition to a 4-2-5 alignment that utilizes three safeties, this becomes an annual point of emphasis. The Blue Devils lose All-American Matt Daniels to graduation.

GEORGIA TECH


Defensive line: This is the most glaring need in the current class. The Yellow Jackets have to replace senior starters Logan Walls (DT) and Jason Peters (DE), but return Izaan Cross (DE) and solid backups T.J. Barnes (DT), Emmanuel Dieke (DE) and Euclid Cummings (DE). The Jackets are expected to sign about 18 players in this year’s class, and five of them should be defensive linemen.

Wide receiver:This is another glaring need after the departures of Stephen Hill, who decided to leave early for the NFL draft, and Tyler Melton. Darren Waller and Jeff Greene, who both played last season as true freshmen, have lots of potential, but the position still needs depth.


MIAMI

Defensive backs: There’s still a lot of depth with this group, and the return of Ray-Ray Armstrong and Vaughn Telemaque helps, but the Canes have to replace two starters in the secondary and have six commits in the current class to help do that.

Defensive line: The Canes have to replace Adewale Ojomo, Micanor Regis, Andrew Smith and Olivier Vernon from last year’s two-deep. The defensive end position was a particular focus in this class.

Receiver: This position lost a lot with the departures of Tommy Streeter, LaRon Byrd and Travis Benjamin. Allen Hurns is now the veteran of the group, along with redshirt senior Kendal Thompkins. There are five receivers currently committed in this class.

Quarterback: Beyond Stephen Morris, Miami has a lot of questions at the position and not a lot of experience. True freshmen Gray Crow and Preston Dewey are already on the roster, along with redshirt sophomore Ryan Williams.

NORTH CAROLINA

Defensive line: This is one of the biggest areas of concern after the departures of Quinton Coples and Tydreke Powell.

Receivers: Larry Fedora’s offense will make good use of this group, but he needs to replace standout Dwight Jones.

Linebackers: This group was thin to begin with in 2011, and now the Heels need to replace outgoing senior Zach Brown. Kevin Reddick is now the main man.

Safety: UNC will have to replace two starters in Matt Merletti, Charles Brown and Jonathan Smith, so this position will have to be rebuilt for the future.

VIRGINIA

Defensive back: This should be the main priority in this class. The Cavaliers will lose four DBs, including two starting safeties in Rodney McCleod and Corey Mosley, and standout cornerback Chase Minnifield. They’ll also miss Dom Joseph, who came in for the nickel packages. Demetrious Nicholson, who started as a true freshman last year, is suddenly the veteran of the group.

Offensive line: The Hoos will have to replace their starting center and left guard. Redshirt freshman center Cody Wallace could get a promotion, and sophomore right guard Luke Bowanko started in the bowl game. They’ve got some big bodies waiting in the wings, but they’ll have some questions to answer here this spring.

Kickers: This position needs to be rebuilt, as the Cavaliers lose Robert Randolph, who finished sixth all time in scoring at UVa, kickoff specialist Chris Hinkebein, and four-year punter Jimmy Howell. The position is wide open heading into the spring.

VIRGINIA TECH

Running back: This one is a no-brainer, as the Hokies have lost four players here in the past two years. David Wilson and his backup, Josh Oglesby, were the latest to depart, and Tony Gregory just had ACL surgery and is out for the spring. The staff likes Michael Holmes, who redshirted last year, and J.C. Coleman enrolled last week.

Receiver: The Hokies will miss Danny Coale and Jarrett Boykin, and next year’s class has three seniors in Dyrell Roberts, D.J. Coles, and Marcus Davis. The future of the position is young, and the staff is still going after several uncommitted players pretty hard.

Defensive line: This year’s class already includes at least five committed defensive linemen, and the Hokies will be particularly thin at noseguard. They had some players graduate early who didn’t play a lot, but at least provided depth.

Linebacker:The Hokies have four committed, and are still chasing another just to build the depth. The staff missed on some recruits at this position last year and would like to make up for it in this class.

On Tuesday we looked at the 2011 report cards for the Atlantic Division. The Coastal Division is up next:

DUKE

Overview: In the fourth season under coach David Cutcliffe, Duke fans should have expected more. A bowl game was a reasonable -- not to mention attainable -- goal, but the Blue Devils instead fell flat again and ended the season with seven straight losses. The season began on a sour note, as Duke lost to Richmond, 23-21, in the season opener. It was yet another embarrassing loss to an FCS program for the ACC, and a bad start for a program that needed to win every winnable game in order to reach the postseason. Duke reeled off three straight wins to start the season 3-2, but a struggling defense and an inability to win the turnover battle on a consistent basis kept the program from taking another step forward in 2011.

Grade: Can’t spell Duke without a D.

GEORGIA TECH

Overview: The Yellow Jackets were a pleasant surprise for the ACC in the first half of the season, as they started 6-0 and seemed destined for a matchup of two undefeated teams with Clemson on the schedule. Back-to-back road losses to Virginia and Miami not only ruined that plan, but also put Georgia Tech behind in the Coastal Division race. The Jackets lost four of their final six regular season games, including to rival Georgia, and ended the season with a seventh straight bowl loss, this time to Utah. Georgia Tech once again had one of the most productive rushing offenses in the country, but the defense didn’t make the leap of improvement many had expected in the second season under coordinator Al Groh.

Grade: C-

MIAMI

Overview: It was a nightmare of a first season for Al Golden, who was blindsided by an NCAA investigation and had to play the Labor Day season opener against Maryland without eight suspended players. The Canes never truly found an identity and lacked consistency, only putting together back-to-back wins once. Despite the obstacles, Miami scrapped together a six-win season to become bowl-eligible, only to have the administration inform Golden the program would self-impose a bowl ban as a preemptive strike against NCAA sanctions. It’s anyone’s guess as to how much that news affected the team in the season finale loss against Boston College, but the Canes’ 2011 season was sandwiched between bookends of disappointment.

Grade: D+

NORTH CAROLINA

Overview: It could have been a lot worse, considering former coach Butch Davis was fired just days before summer camp began. Interim coach Everett Withers was tasked with keeping the team together, and he exceeded expectations in the first half of the season with a 5-1 start. Talk of Withers making his case to become the program’s next head coach grew louder, but the competition also got tougher. And UNC’s weaknesses were exposed. North Carolina lost four of its final six regular-season games, and Withers was replaced for 2012 and had one foot out the door to Ohio State before the season officially ended. The Tar Heels capped the season with an ugly loss to Missouri in the Independence Bowl, and failed to match the eight-win benchmark set by Davis.

Grade: D

VIRGINIA

Overview: Not bad for a team picked by the media to finish fifth in the Coastal Division. Mike London and his Cavaliers exceeded expectations in his second season, not only by becoming bowl-eligible for the first time since 2007, but also by being a legitimate contender for the division title. Virginia played its way right into a showdown with rival Virginia Tech for a spot in the ACC title game. The Cavaliers had one of their worst games of the season when it mattered most, though, and lost 38-0 to the Hokies, proving the balance of power within the state still resides in Blacksburg, along with the Commonwealth Cup. The Hoos didn’t fare much better in the Chick-fil-A Bowl, as they lost 43-24 and were crippled by injuries to key defenders. Overall, though, this was a good season for London, and one his players should be able to build upon.

Grade: A-

VIRGINIA TECH

Overview: The Hokies did it again. They upheld their reputation as the most consistent team in the ACC, and at the same time managed to disappoint their fans and the league at the BCS level. Virginia Tech won its fifth Coastal Division crown, and finished with 11 wins for just the sixth time in school history. Probably the most impressive accomplishment for Virginia Tech was its ability to put together one of the nation’s top defenses despite a plethora of injuries to key players, particularly up front. What the Hokies couldn’t do, though, was beat Clemson or Michigan. Virginia Tech lost to Clemson twice, including in the ACC title game, and came up short in the Allstate Sugar Bowl against Michigan. The officiating will forever be questioned in that game, but the final verdict will show an otherwise impressive season ending with back-to-back losses.

Grade: A

Former Notre Dame assistants Rob Ianello and John Latina have taken new jobs at Kansas and Duke, respectively.

Ianello, who coached Irish receivers and served as recruiting coordinator from 2005-08, was hired by Charlie Weis to perform the same duties with the Jayhawks. He was promoted to assistant head coach for offense in 2009 and was the Irish's interim coach after Weis was fired.

Ianello is coming off a two-year stint as Akron's head coach.

Latina, meanwhile, joins David Cutcliffe's Blue Devils staff as an offensive line coach, the same role he served at Notre Dame from 2005-08. He was Akron's offensive coordinator the past two seasons.

Former Irish quarterback coach (2007-09) Ron Powlus joined Weis' Kansas staff Dec. 13.

» Power Rankings: ACC | Big 12 | Big East | Big Ten | Pac-12 | SEC

The regular season is over, and there are only two teams who still have a chance to make a statement this week, as Clemson and Virginia Tech will face each other in Saturday's ACC championship game. Clemson had the upper hand earlier this season in a 23-3 win over the Hokies, but much has changed since then. Including who is No. 1 ...

1. Virginia Tech (11-1, 7-1 ACC; LW: No. 1) – With their convincing win over rival Virginia on Saturday, the Hokies clinched the Coastal Division title and they also earned 11 wins during the regular season for only the second time in school history. The Hokies are ranked No. 5 in the latest BCS standings heading into the championship game, and they’ve come a long way since their 23-3 loss to Clemson during the regular season.

2. Clemson (9-3, 6-2 ACC; LW: No. 2) – The Tigers dropped to No. 20 in the BCS standings following their third straight loss to rival South Carolina this past weekend. Clemson has faltered down the stretch, losing three of their final four games, but this is the second time in three years the Tigers have won the Atlantic Division.

3. Virginia (8-4, 5-3 ACC; LW: No. 3) – The Cavaliers were outplayed in every phase of the game against Virginia Tech, but this season should still be considered a success under coach Mike London. The Hoos are bowl bound for the first time since 2007, and they beat both Florida State and Miami during a four-game winning streak.

4. Florida State (8-4, 5-3 ACC; LW: No. 4) – Does this eight-win season feel more like a six-win season to anyone else? The Noles have been flat offensively in recent weeks, and they lost the games that mattered most this season. FSU is likely bound for Champs Sports Bowl, but will the Noles remember to take their offense with them?

5. Georgia Tech (8-4, 5-3 ACC; LW: No. 5) – The 6-0 start to this season was too good to be true, as Georgia Tech went 1-2 against Clemson, Virginia Tech and Georgia. Georgia’s defense smothered the Jackets, who were held to 79 rushing yards in the second half. Quarterback Tevin Washington threw two interceptions and linebacker Julian Burnett said the team is “tired of being the little brothers in the state.”

6. Wake Forest (6-6, 5-3 ACC; LW: No. 6) – The Deacs played like they had their bowl eligibility all wrapped up, and Vanderbilt played like it was their Super Bowl in a 41-7 win. The Commodores became bowl eligible for the first time since 2008, and the Deacs allowed 481 yards of total offense.

7. NC State (7-5, 4-4 ACC; LW: No. 7) – Unbelievable. NC state was trailing 41-14 with six minutes left in the third quarter and came back to beat Maryland 56-41. It was the second-biggest comeback in ACC history, and the Wolfpack became bowl eligible with the win. It was a remarkable way to finish the season.

8. Miami (6-6, 3-5 ACC; LW: No. 8) – Ugh. The senior class closed its chapter with a home loss to a woeful Boston College team, and quarterback Jacory Harris threw a forgettable four picks. It was a disappointing finish for the recruiting class of 2008, which never lived up to the hype it entered with, but a new contract extension for coach Al Golden assured fans recruiting will continue under his watch.

9. North Carolina (7-5, 3-5 ACC; LW: No. 9) – The Tar Heels continue to be a more physical team than rival Duke, and it showed up front on Saturday, as the offensive line paved the way for 508 total yards. UNC beat Duke for the eighth straight year and is one win away from matching its eight-win ceiling under former coach Butch Davis.

10. Boston College (4-8, 3-5 ACC; LW: No. 10) – It was an impressive effort in the win over Miami, and the Eagles deserve a lot of credit for winning three of their last five after starting the season 1-6. There is no bowl game, but there is some positive momentum to build off of heading into the offseason. The question is whether any staff or personnel changes will be made.

11. Duke (3-9, 1-7 ACC; LW: No. 11) – It’s an all-too-familiar storyline for the Blue Devils, who finished the season with seven straight losses. The defense remains a question heading into the offseason, and recruiting must improve if Duke is going to take the next step under coach David Cutcliffe.

12. Maryland (2-10, 1-7 ACC; LW: No. 12) – The Terps tanked under first-year coach Randy Edsall. From a nine-win season to a two-win season that was capped off by Saturday’s meltdown at NC State, it should be a relief to everyone that the season is over in College Park. Edsall is locked into a lucrative contract, but it will be interesting to see how much turnover there is on the roster and if any staff changes are made.

A few final thoughts on two more of the ACC's earlier games:

Final: UNC 37, Duke 21: Another eight-win season could be in store for North Carolina, despite the firing of former coach Butch Davis just days before summer practices began. Duke's defense couldn't stop running back Giovani Bernard or receiver Dwight Jones, and its offense couldn't overcome four turnovers. North Carolina was the more physical team and paved the way for Bernard to rack up 100 yards by halftime. UNC finished with 508 total yards; Bernard accounted for 222 of them. Duke ended the season with seven consecutive losses -- nowhere near where the program needed to be for bowl eligibility in the fourth season under David Cutcliffe.

Final: Vanderbilt 41, Wake Forest 7: Vandy was playing for bowl eligibility, and the Deacs couldn't stop them from it. Wake Forest had no answer for Zac Stacy, who ran for 184 yards and three touchdowns, including a 40-yard touchdown score in the fourth quarter. It was an impressive season for the Deacs, who had a chance to win the Atlantic Division title against Clemson earlier this month, but they faded down the stretch and lost four of their final five. There were plenty of close losses on Wake's schedule, but Vanderbilt left no doubt it was the better team. Fortunately for the Deacs, they earned their bowl eligibility a week ago against Maryland.

1. Andrew Luck of Stanford had a bad game, and Brandon Weeden of Oklahoma State keeps throwing touchdown passes, and suddenly we have not only a race for All-American quarterback but for the Heisman Trophy. What we’re seeing with Luck is the classic backlash against a player held to a higher standard all season long. Luck doesn’t have to outplay Weeden; he has to outplay the larger-than-life version of himself that we, the media, have created. He didn’t do that against Oregon.

2. It’s easy to dismiss Duke at 3-7 because Duke is always 3-7, right? But the Blue Devils are 2-3 in games decided by four points or fewer. “I talked to our squad about how we’ve got a good football team with a bad record,” Duke head coach David Cutcliffe said. “We still have some time to do a little something about it -- not as much as we would like.” The Blue Devils have won 18 games in four seasons under Cutcliffe after winning 10 in the previous seven seasons. You have to believe that Duke is smart enough to keep him.

3. Georgia coach Mark Richt will never say “I told you so” to everyone who had him fired after the Dawgs lost to South Carolina to go 0-2. He reflected this week on what he said to his team that day. “Men, just don't put your heads down,” Richt said. “Don't lose heart. We've got a chance to be a good team. I left the field feeling encouraged that we have the right stuff. Now, what are we going to do with it? Are we going to keep grinding and keep believing, or are we going to fall apart and start feeling sorry for ourselves and start pointing fingers?” The Dawgs are one win away from The SEC East title.

Duke coach David Cutcliffe said you could use the words “frustration” and “anger” to describe the mood in the locker room following his team’s 14-10 loss to No. 12-ranked Virginia Tech last weekend.

Cutcliffe was spot-on, at least according to linebacker Kelby Brown.

“It’s terrible,” Brown said. “Anyone who watched that game, we had the momentum the whole second half. I was sure we were going to win. That’s just the worst feeling I can remember. That was probably one of the hardest losses I can remember for me.

“When it hurts is that Saturday night, watching the highlights on ESPN,” he said, “but come Sunday morning, we had one of our best Sunday practices this week and right now as far as I can tell, we have more energy than I can remember. We always play Miami hard. We know it’s time to finally get that victory in the end.”

That’s what Miami should be afraid of. Duke has come painstakingly close this season to turning the corner, losing three of its games by no more than four points each. Duke lost the season-opener to Richmond, 23-21, and has lost back-to-back games to Wake Forest (24-23) and Virginia Tech. Ten more points and Duke (3-5) would be bowl-eligible by now. The good news, Cutcliffe said, is that emotions like anger and frustration -- which are to be expected -- “can be turned into positive emotion.”

“Discouraged we're not,” Cutcliffe said. “We're not going to be. We have nothing to be discouraged about. We're playing well.”

Cutcliffe knows, though, that they’re not playing well enough.

Duke has struggled with turnovers in recent weeks, the offense is averaging just under 23 points per game, and they’ve come up short too many times on third downs and in the red zone. Self-inflicted wounds like four turnovers against Virginia Tech and six penalties against Wake Forest are the kinds of things that will keep Cutcliffe up at night.

“I have my private moments like anybody would,” he said. “I've never gone through anything like this in my career. I've been relatively spoiled. I get over here really early Sunday. I kind of dive into the tape. Before I go to church, I get a little look at the opponent. Then I find sometimes some way, somehow, I'm going to find some peace in that morning. By Sunday afternoon, I'm generally ready to go once I see the squad. I have my mind set on what we have to do.”

And his players have picked up on that.

“We look to our head coach,” Brown said. “It’s difficult for him, obviously, more than anybody, but he turns the page so quick, because he knows it’s so vital we move on to the next team. Every week we have a great opportunity, and we have a great group of guys, too. It’s never easy to lose, especially the last couple of weeks like we lost, but we move on quickly, and we’ve done that with Miami so far.”

It’s not going to be easy to win on the road against a Miami team that is also looking to rebound from a disappointing loss. Instead of backing down, though, Duke continues to believe it can finally get over the hump.

“We’ve felt like that the last two weeks, like we’re going to seal it this week,” quarterback Sean Renfree said. “It’s certainly heartbreaking to lose the last couple of weeks like this, but I think are guys are as confident as we’ve been in the last two weeks, that we’re going to go out and get a win and there’s no way we can come home with a loss.”

What does Duke have to do in order to actually do that? Brown said the defense, which has allowed just one second-half touchdown in each of the past two games, has to bring the same level of intensity to the first half.

“It usually seems like we’re one big play away, you know?” he said. “If we could just get that one big turnover, whatever it be, we’re right there on the edge of it.”

Offensively, Renfree agreed the Blue Devils need a faster start.

“Offensively, I’m going to have to play a little bit better and we’re going to have to get off to a little bit quicker start,” Renfree said. “The last two weeks we’ve kind of come out to a slow start and we’ve been playing catch-up. We have to score in the red zone more effectively. Those are the three biggest things I see, but I think our defense has been playing lights out. If we can do those three things, we’ll have a much better chance of actually getting the W.”

Renfree said the team is as close to being where it wants to be as the scores in each of the past two weeks have indicated.

“We’re right there,” he said. “The last two weeks have been a pretty good indicator. It’s just one or two plays here or there and our record for the season could be a winning season. If we go make a couple of plays, it can turn the whole season around. We’re very confident we can get three or four more wins. It’s definitely not going to be easy, we’re playing great ACC teams, but that’s the way we want it. I know that’s the way we want it. We want to be playing the best teams in the ACC to finish off the season. It will make it that much better.”

For the only time this year, the schedule will feature an all-ACC lineup, with six league games. Two important division games will be played with Georgia Tech at Miami and Maryland at Florida State. Here are 10 things to watch in the conference this week, in no particular order:

1. Miami’s defensive line: How the Canes handle the suspension of starting tackle Micanor Regis will help determine how the run defense fares against the nation’s No. 2 rushing offense. Adewale Ojomo is expected to start in place of Regis, who punched UNC receiver Dwight Jones in the groin last week. Regis is the Canes’ healthiest and most experienced defensive tackle.

2. Miami quarterback Jacory Harris vs. Georgia Tech DB Rod Sweeting. Harris has thrown 89 passes without an interception, a span of three straight games. Sweeting, though, has intercepted a pass in three of Georgia Tech’s past four games, including one against Virginia last weekend that he ran back for a touchdown.

3. Clemson receiver Sammy Watkins. You should be watching him every week, but he’s on the verge of breaking freshman ACC records this weekend. Entering Saturday’s game against North Carolina, Watkins has 46 catches for 728 yards and eight receiving touchdowns. He needs 125 receiving yards and two touchdown catches to set the ACC records in both areas. Koren Robinson of NC State had 853 receiving yards a freshman in 1999. Greg Carr of Florida State had nine touchdown receptions in 2005 and Heath Miller of Virginia had nine TD receptions as a tight end in 2002.

4. Field position in Death Valley. Speaking of Watkins, he’s No. 6 in the country in kickoff returns, but he’s not the only one who has been playing well on special teams this season. UNC is No. 29 in the country in kickoff return defense, and the Tar Heels are No. 10 in the country in punt return yardage defense, allowing just 13 total yards on six attempts.

5. David Wilson’s 100-yard streak. He enters Saturday’s game against Boston College needing 97 rushing yards to reach 1,000 for the season. Wilson currently ranks third nationally in rushing yards (903), and fifth in rushing yards per game (129). He has surpassed 100 yards in six of the Hokies’ seven games.

6. Boston College on third downs. The Eagles have struggled to sustain drives this season and are No. 80 in the country in third-down conversion percentage at 37.93 percent. That could be a problem against a Virginia Tech defense that held Wake Forest to just 1-of-13 third-down attempts last weekend.

7. Big plays against Duke’s defense. Coach David Cutcliffe said he expects Wake Forest to try and do what Florida State did, which was exploit the defense with big pass plays. Duke allowed three passes of at least 50 yards in the first quarter against FSU. Wake Forest receiver Chris Givens is averaging more than 18 yards per catch, and this series has a history of high-scoring games.

8. NC State’s rushing defense. Virginia is coming off a season-high 272 rushing yards, and NC State’s defense is No. 77 in the country, allowing 172.33 rushing yards per game. UVa running backs Perry Jones and Kevin Parks are coming off their best game of the year.

9. Virginia’s pass defense against quarterback Mike Glennon. Glennon has already thrown 16 touchdown passes in six games. Virginia’s pass defense is No. 8 in the country at 166.83 yards per game. Cavaliers' cornerback Chase Minnifield is tied for third among all active FBS players with 12 career interceptions.

10. Florida State’s defense against Maryland quarterback C.J. Brown. After running for 286 yards in the past two games, Brown isn’t a secret anymore. FSU’s rushing defense, which is No. 9 in the country and holding opponents to 86.83 yards per game, should be prepared for Brown’s ability to take off. He ran for 162 yards against Clemson.

I was close to picking Wake Forest to win last weekend. Really, really close. But I didn’t, and it was the lone missed pick of Week 6. My 5-1 record last week put me at 44-10 on the season for an 81.5 winning percentage this year. I’m not going to make the same mistake again, though, this week.

Florida State, you’re on upset alert:

Duke 35, Florida State 34: Duke will do exactly what Wake Forest did, and beat the Seminoles with their passing game and their discipline. Duke didn’t allow a turnover or a sack in its come-from-behind road win over FIU. Florida State has made a habit out of untimely penalties, and had five turnovers in the loss to Wake Forest. Duke has a chance to catch the Noles when they’re down, and David Cutcliffe will make sure they do.

Clemson 31, Maryland 21: Tajh Boyd is expected to start, but will his hip injury be any factor? Maryland’s defense will be gunning for him, and its performance against Georgia Tech should have given the Terps some confidence. It won’t be enough, though, to stop Clemson’s offense. If Boyd can stay on his feet, he’ll be the difference. Maryland’s quarterback situation is in flux, as either Danny O’Brien or C.J. Brown will start.

Virginia Tech 28, Wake Forest 21: Florida State probably underestimated Wake Forest. Frank Beamer will not. The Hokies, even with their injury-laden defense, will rattle quarterback Tanner Price into a costly turnover, and they will win the ground game with David Wilson.

Georgia Tech 45, Virginia 21: The Cavaliers’ defense won’t be able to stop Georgia Tech. It’s that simple. Yes, they had a bye week to prepare, but game speed is a different story. The Yellow Jackets will catch Virginia snoozing and continue to break away for more big plays. Quarterback Tevin Washington will have the edge at quarterback.

North Carolina 21, Miami 17: How many more heartbreakers can Miami stand? The Tar Heels’ defense will be the cause of this one. Miami running back Lamar Miller will get his yards, and so will UNC tailback Giovani Bernard, but North Carolina’s stingy defense will pressure Jacory Harris into his first turnover in three games.

Last week was a humbling experience. Just as I was bragging about my SEC-like winning percentage, I go 6-3 in the Week 4 picks, with strikes on Miami, Maryland and Virginia. If you picked any or all of those teams to lose, you must be a sheer joy to hang around, a ray of eternal optimism. Nonetheless, they didn’t get it done, and as a result, my picks record fell to 31-9 this season for a 77.5 winning percentage.

This week isn’t any easier, and there is one upset lurking on the schedule:

Clemson 21, Virginia Tech 17: Look, I know Virginia Tech fans out there want more credit for their defending ACC champs, and I promise you I’ll give it to them -- as soon as they beat Clemson. I just don’t see it happening. Clemson’s offense is the real deal. Weaknesses in Virginia Tech’s offense have been exposed by inferior competition. The Tigers will stun the Hokies on their home field.

North Carolina 24, East Carolina 21 (OT): The fact that this is a night game and at ECU almost made this an upset pick. Almost. North Carolina is coming off a let-down loss against Georgia Tech and now they have to face a hostile in-state crowd. But the Tar Heels are better up front, they’ll get what they need out of their defense, and tailback Giovani Bernard will gash the Pirates’ soft defense for another 100-yard performance.

Virginia 31, Idaho 10: Robb Akey is 18-36 in his fifth season at Idaho, and this season’s team is one of the statistically worst in the country, ranking 109th in total offense and 102 in scoring defense. Virginia quarterback Michael Rocco is healthy enough to play, but the Hoos shouldn’t have a problem putting points up in this one.

Miami 48, Bethune-Cookman 10: The Hurricanes are trying to rebound from their surprising loss to K-State and they’ll take out their frustrations on an FCS opponent. Both teams are coming off games in which replay overturned original rulings of go-ahead touchdowns in the final minute. Miami running back Lamar Miller will continue to pad his stats, and the defense will win the game up front.

Georgia Tech 38, NC State 28: If you think this is going to be a blowout, think again. No, NC State’s defense isn’t very good, and there are too many injuries to keep track of, but the Wolfpack will play with a purpose and Georgia Tech will be fortunate to leave Raleigh with a win.

Duke 28, FIU 24: This road trip should be even tougher than the ACC game at Boston College. It’s a critical game for David Cutcliffe, as FIU upset Louisville and Central Florida earlier this season. Golden Panther receiver T.Y. Hilton had seven catches for 201 yards and two touchdowns against Louisville. You don’t hear this often, but Duke’s defense will be the difference.

Maryland 45, Towson 3: The Terps were embarrassed by last week’s loss to Temple, and they should be. Unfortunately for Towson, they’ll be the punching bag. Maryland is 9-0 against FCS opponents, and they’ll continue that streak on Saturday. Towson has the best scoring defense in the FCS, though, so don’t take the little guys too lightly.

Wake Forest 28, Boston College 17: The eyeball test says the Deacs are the better team right now, and the statistics say they’ve got the better quarterback in Tanner Price. The Eagles will give Wake its best shot, and they’ll be more confident from their Week 4 win over UMass, but BC’s linebackers won’t be able to do it all.