Heather Dinich

  (12:00 PM)

Hey guys! Lots of good questions (and angry LSU fans) here today. Let's get started.

Will (Metairie, LA)

Please explain your video you posted on SEC blog yesterday. You called out LSU for having a poor offense and inconsistant QB, but all you have to do is look at UNC for that. The Tigers secondary will feast off TJ Yates when he makes a mistake.

Heather Dinich

  (12:01 PM)

Ah, yes, LSU has an outstanding secondary. So does UNC's. And I realize they have similar situations offensively, but what separates them is that UNC's defense is more than just its secondary. Didn't LSU lose seven starters?

Nathan (San Francisco)

HD do you believe that Stephen Hill will be able to ease the loss of Bebe, and become the next big playmaker in the passing game for the Yellow Jackets this year?

Heather Dinich

  (12:01 PM)

Yes, I do. He has a chance to be the Jackets' next elite receiver. As a whole, I think Georgia Tech's offense won't miss a beat, despite losing top players.

Hokie Fan (Norfolk)

You haven't said much about the kicking game lately. How is that coming? Special teams can make or break a team sometimes.

Heather Dinich

  (12:03 PM)

It can, and as a Hokie fan you should be used to looking for a kicker as an annual trend, no? There are several kickers in the ACC who could make a run for the Lou Groza award, and several return specialits like Greg Reid and Torrey Smith who should be fun to watch -- again.

Michael (Atlanta)

Heather enjoy the blog keep up the good work. How do you feel about being a little of the motivation of some of the yellowjacket players this year as they look to defend their crown? Also isn't Joshua Nesbitt a Quarterback in a Linebackers body? Got to be the biggest quarterback in the ACC right.

Heather Dinich

  (12:03 PM)

Hey, whatever I can do to help. Like I said, though, I'll be taking full credit for that motivation if and when they prove me wrong. As for Nesbitt, yeah, the dude is huge. Has to be the biggest in the ACC.

Richard (Atlanta)

In the rivalry rankings, you forgot one important game in the GT/VT rivalry: stolen jerseys.

Heather Dinich

  (12:04 PM)

Well, it was just a little too recent for me, but yeah, wasn't it Glennon's jersey that was stolen? And it's become significantly more important since both programs have become contenders for the Coastal Division.

Austin (Tallahassee)

Heather, what do you think about the recent signing of Jacob Coker by Jimbo and crew?

Heather Dinich

  (12:05 PM)

Pretty interesting to go after a single wing quarterback. A little more Paul Johnsonesque, no? But I don't doubt that recruiting staff's decisions.

Scott (Durham)

Do you believe that Duke can get some four or five star recruits for the 2011 class? They already have 11 comitments, but all are three star or lower. Can Duke's recruitment staff pul it off this year?

Heather Dinich

  (12:06 PM)

I don't see why not. You're talking about a bunch of former SEC coaches. They know how to sell a program, but they also know you have to win first.

Jacob (Nebraska)

If you had to choose one team to play for the National Championship out of the ACC who would it be? And why?

Heather Dinich

  (12:07 PM)

Right now, it would be Miami because the Canes have the best combination of talent, speed and experience -- not to mention pressure to do it.

KC (ATL)

Does any one team have more running backs than GT?

Heather Dinich

  (12:08 PM)

Actually, there are a LOT of teams that could give the Jackets a run for their money. Florida State and Miami come to mind, but even Wake Forest and Maryland are deep at the position.

Steven (Chicago, IL)

Hi Heather:What are your thoughts on the direction of the Wake Forest offense minus Riley Skinner? Skylar Jones' speed would probably drive more of an option attack, but either Brendan Cross or Tanner Price (fr) would be better suited for a 'skinner-like' attack to get the ball to arguablyl one of the best and most experienced and productive receiving corps in the ACC with Marshall Williams, Chris Givens, and Devon Brown all returning? Either way don't you think the Deacs are flying under the radar which is best for such a young program?

Heather Dinich

  (12:09 PM)

Speaking of the Deacs ... I think Wake fans will like their new quarterback because whoever it is will give them a different dimension with his ability to run. Still, I wouldn't consider them flying under the radar because nobody has taken a meaningful collegiate snap at quarterback. Not even Jim Grobe knows how they'll respond in a game situation.

Dillon (Herndon, Va)

Have you watched any of the episodes of UVa's new tv show? If so, what are your impressions?

Heather Dinich

  (12:10 PM)

Yes, I have, actually (when I get control of the remote), and I'm very impressed. Should be a big seller to recruits.

Kevin (Boston MA)

My Surprise player of the year, Colin Larmond Junior WR for BC. Thoughts?

Heather Dinich

  (12:11 PM)

Love it. He has big-play capabilities and will have to take on a leadership role now. Statistically, I think he has one of the better yards/catch stats among returning receivers.

James (Atlanta, Georgia)

Here's your shot: Why will the ACC be better than the SEC this year?

Heather Dinich

  (12:12 PM)

Nah, that's the ACC's shot. My take? It won't be.

Nick D (Tallahassee, FL)

Hey HD enlight of the World Cup game tomorrow what ACC player do you think would most be able to help out team USA advance to the next round???

Heather Dinich

  (12:12 PM)

Miami's Matt Bosher? He's got a strong leg ...

Dustin (Miami, FL)

HD, a lot of analyst are talking about my Canes' depth at RB and WR, but the depth at D-Line is unbelievable. I think this will be the factor when we go to OSU and win. What are your thoughts on this? Don't you think the talent/depth at D-Line is capable of having Pryor rattled a bit?

Heather Dinich

  (12:14 PM)

Great point, Dustin, it could be -- should be -- one of the program's best d-lines in recent years. They'll go after Pryor, no doubt. Not quite ready to give the Canes the edge in that game, though.

Chris (Athens)

Coach of the year prediction: David Cutcliffe. I think Duke surprises and might make a bowl, although it could be another year with the QB situation...thoughts?

Heather Dinich

  (12:15 PM)

I thought Cutcliffe had a good chance to get that title last year. If they make it to a bowl, it would be a surprise with the initiation of a new quarterback, but Sean Renfree is good enough to get them there, especially with two of the ACC's top receivers to throw it to. If only Duke could run the ball ...

Jeff Ron (Richmond, VA)

Heather, what is the hype with Mike London at UVA? The best players to come through UR (Hightower for example) weren't products of his coaching, and he inherited the guys that made his championship season. Other than the new attitude to the program, what is he really bringing to the table?

Heather Dinich

  (12:17 PM)

Excellent knowledge of the state, its high schools and their coaches, not to mention demands in the classroom, and prior coaching experience which will all help.

Mac (NC)

I continue to sense that unless Miami and FSU are at the top of the conference and competing for a national title, the ACC is still seen as a second class conference, even if other teams -- such as UNC, Clemson, , GT, and VT -- are pretty good and ranked pretty high in the polls. Thoughts?

Heather Dinich

  (12:19 PM)

I agree to an extent, but that's only because that's what the national perception is. Personally, I don't think the conference gets enough credit right now for its depth. If the ACC gets a NC contender, though, no matter who it is, the conference's reputation will get an immediate boost.

Nick (Clarksville, TN)

You might be saving the best for last, but I don't see many Georgia Tech players on your Top 25 ACC Countdown. Any particular reason? They have definite play makers.

Heather Dinich

  (12:21 PM)

They do, but don't forget the list is also based on past performances in college and what they've done, not just their potential. There are a lot of players in the ACC who are more accomplished right now. That's not to say Georgia Tech won't have a guy like Stephen Hill who could wind up on the list in the postseason.

Alex (Miami, FL)

HD, if you could attend only one FSU game this season which would it be and why?

Heather Dinich

  (12:22 PM)

Eh, probably the season finale at Florida. It should finally be a more even game, plus I've never been there and it's a great rivalry game.

Heather Dinich

  (12:22 PM)

I lied, it's at FSU, isn't it?

Heather Dinich

  (12:22 PM)

Well, still a great game I'd like to see ...

Matt (DC)

Our bowl record and non-conference record against BCS conferences is what drives our perception. All we have to do is do better in those departments, and it won't matter if Miami or FSU doesn't win the conference.

Heather Dinich

  (12:23 PM)

Agreed, those two factors are two-thirds of the equation, Matt, but even the ACC commish and conference coaches will tell you the league needs a national title contender.

jander75 (the blogs)

HD, Did you forget about the Hokie stable of running backs? Close to the best in the league if not DIV I methinks...

Heather Dinich

  (12:24 PM)

It's kinda hard to forget two 1,000-yard rushers, Jander, but yeah, you're right. You think VT's duo is better than Bama's though?

Chris (Greenville NC)

Russell Wilson leads N.C. State to the conference championship, throwing for 35 TD's and 3500 yards. Too much to ask this year?

Heather Dinich

  (12:25 PM)

Yeah, considering he wasn't exactly far from those numbers last year. (What was it, 31 TDs?) He can't do it by himself. That D needs to improve.

Oleg (Miami)

You would rather miss another historic FSU vs. Miami game to watch FSU vs. UF? smh...

Heather Dinich

  (12:26 PM)

Well that WAS my No. 1 rivalry in the ACC, Oleg.

Kevin (N. Potomac, MD)

As a Terps fan, do I have anything to look forward to this season?

Heather Dinich

  (12:27 PM)

Of course. It can't get much worse, can it? Seriously, I think Maryland is good enough to get to a bowl game. Depth at linebacker (all starters and their backups return), talent in the secondary, depth at running back, and most importantly, the o-line should be better.

Adam (DC)

enough with the "Miami and FSU need to get back to power" stuff....how long does VT need to be winning before they are considered a traditional power?

Heather Dinich

  (12:29 PM)

I think 10-win season after 10-win season has earned the Hokies their respect, and it's clear they've been the best program in the ACC since joining the conference. BUT ... until they beat the Alabamas and LSUs of the world, they'll remain the best team in the ACC, not the country.

Michelle (Tally )

If you could pick one player from the ACC to contend for the Heisman who would it be, why, and what is there teams finish nationally?

Heather Dinich

  (12:30 PM)

I think it would be Ponder, Michelle, and I'm not just saying that because you're from Tally. I chose him as my first-team ACC QB last year because even though he was injured, I thought he performed the best. He's got an excellent supporting cast and offensive line, but the Noles need to be in the ACCCG for him to have a chance.

Zach (Camp Lejeune NC)

Do you think the suspension of DE Robert Hall will affect GT's defense at all?

Heather Dinich

  (12:31 PM)

It could, depending upon when the suspension is lifted. They'll need their best players on the field for that road trip to UNC in the third week, and Robert Hall was expected to be a contributor. The good news is that Jason Peters had a great spring.

Bryan (Miami)

Which player from the ACC could go from unknown nationally to a semi big name? Last year Christian Ponder and Jacory Harris come to mind for me. I'm thinking Andre Elington from Clemson has a chance to do some big things since he won't be sharing a backfield with CJ Spiller.

Heather Dinich

  (12:32 PM)

Great pick on Ellington, but he will be sharing some time with Jamie Harper. Still, the coaching staff is excited about the potential there and his yards per carry was impressive last year, though I don't have the stats in front of me.

Billy Berue (Bushwood CC)

Heather,Considering the trip to Columbus just 12 days prior, what do you predict the Canes do with their trip to an underrated Pitt team on a Thursday night the very next game? I persoanlly think that could be one of the better games of the season.

Heather Dinich

  (12:34 PM)

I think it was last week that I predicted Miami would win that game. I figure they've got some extra time to prepare, and they'll either be a) motivated from a win against Ohio State and riding momentum, or b) mad about a loss to the Buckeyes and ready to take it out on the Panthers. But I don't think Pitt is underrated.

Jeff (Greenville)

HD, Do you think Parker is gone for the MLB or will the Rockies let him play QB this fall?

Heather Dinich

  (12:34 PM)

My guess -- and it's only a guess -- is that the Rockies will pay him enough to keep him away from football.

Dave (Raleigh)

I hear that Russel Wilson signed a contractwith the Rockies. Will he still play football this year?

Heather Dinich

  (12:36 PM)

As far as I know he intends to. I don't think that's changed, even though he has signed a contract.

Heather Dinich

  (12:36 PM)

Yes, check out this link:http://acc.blogs.starnewsonline.com/14433/14433/

RazzMaTazz (Sunny California)

Do you ever read the fan comments posted in response to your articles, and if so what percent?

Heather Dinich

  (12:38 PM)

Yes, and just enough that I don't need to see a therapist.

Kevin (Boston)

Hey Heather, You going to be at the BC vs Notre Dame game this year? Unfortunately we cant fill the stadium on a regular basis, but we have a good shot for that game!

Heather Dinich

  (12:39 PM)

Never know until the week of the game where I'm headed, but that should be a good one, and I'm glad to see that rivalry was renewed.

Dan (Raleigh NC)

If NC State can stay heathly and out of trouble can they compete for the Atlantic Division this year? I know the Defense is the question but with Nate Irving back and healthy that should help not to mention the influence of John Tenuta.

Heather Dinich

  (12:39 PM)

Somebody mentioned Wake as an under-the-radar team, but I think it could be the Pack in the Atlantic for two reasons you just mentioned. However, the defensive line and secondary remain concerns.

Nate (Denver, CO)

Is this year's opener between Virginia Tech and Boise St. the one that will FINALLY put the Broncos in their place? It seems that Boise St. always lucks out and gets their harder opponents' worst shot every time! I don't see that really happening against a Beamer team. Thoughts?!?!?!

Heather Dinich

  (12:41 PM)

I'm not sure how much "luck" goes into an undefeated season, but I think the pressure is on Virginia Tech in that game.

Greg (Washington, DC)

Heather: Regarding your answer about Duke's potential to recruit four and five star athletes, can you elaborate a bit more on what it takes for a program to compete for the best recruits (leaving aside the possibility that the "star" rating system is very flawed)?As a Wake Forest fan, I am curious about whether it is possible for my school to get over the hump and consistently compete for elite athletes. Obvious academic standards are a barrier, but not one that can't be overcome. I think our coaches have a very sellable product (small school in a big-time conference, successful NFL players, recently competitive in the ACC, etc.). Nevertheless, we never land four and five star recruits. And it's questionable whether we even compete for them. What gives?

Heather Dinich

  (12:43 PM)

A few things ... Wake's staff is more concerned about recruiting character kids who aren't a problem academically and who will actually sign on signing day than they are the star system. They do an excellent job of finding hidden gems and developing them. If there's a "four-star" player the Deacs like, they'll compete for him, so long as he is the kind of person Jim Grobe can coach.

Terrance (Orlando (Fl))

What's more important for the ACC to improve the conference perception, win all of the non conference games like Miami vs Ohio State, VT and Boise. Or winning all of the bowl games?

Heather Dinich

  (12:45 PM)

I think it's beating the best competition that's out there, regardless of when it comes. It won't do the ACC any big favors to beat, say, Rutgers in a bowl game, but it would do wonders to knock off Ohio State in the regular season.

Michael (Washington)

Heather, which team do you see as the most underachieving in the ACC, and which team do you see as the most overachieving?

Heather Dinich

  (12:47 PM)

Florida State has probably been the most underachieving. Until last year, I probably would've said Clemson. Overachieving? Boston College, especially last year.

Jeff (Greenville)

HD are you watching any CWS games? At least ACC is looking better than the SEC in one sport.

Heather Dinich

  (12:48 PM)

I am, yes ... Random fact, though, and somebody can feel free to check me on this, but I think Michigan -- yes Michigan -- has more CWS titles than the ACC. Somebody told me that and I couldn't believe it, considering how good ACC baseball has been.

Tim (Simpsonville, SC)

HD - Do you think the Super Conference move is dead? If not do you think the SEC would move on GA Tech, Clemson, Fl St, Miami or others?

Heather Dinich

  (12:50 PM)

I don't think we've seen the last of change, Tim. If the SEC had to make a move tomorrow, my guess would be it goes after Florida State first.

Jeff (Florence, SC)

What are the top 4 most talented teams within the ACC to-date in terms of recruiting?

Heather Dinich

  (12:52 PM)

Ooh, tough one, and a Luginbill question, but as of now, I'd say Florida State, Clemson, Miami ... not sure who the fourth would be.

John (DC)

Heather, how many ACC teams do you think the top 25 preseason rankings this season? How many in the top 10?

Heather Dinich

  (12:53 PM)

Five -- Georgia Tech, Miami, Florida State, UNC and Virginia Tech, not in that order. If Kyle Parker stays, Clemson could sneak in there.

scott (myrtle beach)

im a clemson fan and they have a lot of talent but w/o parker they arent top 4 in the acc or top 25 national

Heather Dinich

  (12:54 PM)

Agreed.

Brant (Dothan,AL)

My pick is FSU or VT for acc champ. Your thoughts?

Heather Dinich

  (12:54 PM)

I'm thinking it's Miami's turn.

Micah (Charlottesville)

Does NC State beat the heels for a fourth time in a row this year?

Heather Dinich

  (12:55 PM)

I'd give the edge to Butch Davis this time around. The game is in Chapel Hill, and it should be the best team Davis has had there.

De (Buffalo, NY)

I am a big Clemson fan and I want your opinion on Tajh Boyd as a starter?

Heather Dinich

  (12:57 PM)

I'll give you Dabo Swinney's instead -- Boyd isn't ready yet.

Ben (Savannah.Ga)

HD, who has the best strength and conditioning program in the ACC?

Heather Dinich

  (12:58 PM)

Good question. Who is the best fourth-quarter team in the league? Georgia Tech was strong last year (Florida State game comes to mind), but UNC and Miami also have great programs. Jimbo Fisher just made a huge upgrade to their offseason program. Maryland has the longest-tenured coach in Dwight Galt, I believe, and he's produced some freaks like Vernon Davis.

Heather Dinich

  (12:59 PM)

Clemson also has a very good program.

Daniel (Asheville, NC)

Enjoyed some of the articles about conference competitiveness and rivalries. The Clemson / Miami series which didn't make the article since they have only played 8 times, has boasted some exciting down to the wire games, dating back to the 1950 Orange Bowl. Do you think this year's game will be similar?

Heather Dinich

  (1:00 PM)

I hope so. I was pulled over on the side of the road listening to it on my XM radio last year, I think I was at a Virginia Tech game that day. If Parker stays, it should be another thriller.

Heather Dinich

  (1:00 PM)

Alright guys, my time is up. Thanks so much for joining me today. See you back in the blogosphere.