Head coach Tom O'Brien's Wolfpack hasn't played a game since November 27, but that doesn't mean his staff hasn't been busy. The Pack have received three commitments in the past week, bringing the total number of 2011 commitments for the Pack to 13, of their 14 available scholarships.
After two-star Lawrence Academy (MA) running back Tony Knight de-committed from the Pack on December 14, Tom O'Brien and staff wasted little time filling his spot. Losing Knight meant little to the Pack, as their top two rushers from the 2010 season were true freshman Mustafa Greene, and red shirt-freshman Dean Haynes.
Instead the Pack went to an area where Tom O'Brien made a living off of at Boston College: the offensive line. This week the Pack added two linemen to help stabilize their line for the future.
First, Kettering, OH Archbishop Alter lineman Joe Thuney verbally committed to play for NC State. The three star prospect is Scout.com's 92nd best tackle in the class, and is quite athletic for his size- he earned an Honorable Mention for All-District in basketball in 2009. Thuney has the height (6-5) to play in the ACC, but his weight (235) will need to increase for him to be a productive part of the line- I suspect that will happen once he gets on campus.
Then two-star lineman Alex Barr de-committed from Vanderbilt, and gave NC State his verbal commitment after Robbie Caldwell was fired. Barr (6-7, 285) of Fayetteville, GA Stars Mill was said to be at the top of Vanderbilt's O-Line board, and clearly has the size to make a difference for the Pack once he is needed. He is ranked as the 131st best tackle in the 2011 class.
In between the signings of the two offensive linemen, the Pack also improved their defensive secondary. Henderson, NC Southern Vance safety Hakim Jones chose NC State as well. The two-way star also played wide receiver for Southern Vance, and at 6-2, 190 he'll come to State as an athlete and Tom O'Brien and staff will figure out where he'll play during the summer.
After these three signings, the Pack has just one scholarship left. They hope to land Wadesboro, NC Anson linebacker Stephone Anthony, who is currently the top ranked recruit in North Carolina. NC State is on Anthony's short list, and the Pack hope that the fourth best outside linebacker in the class will enjoy his last official visit, a trip to Raleigh on January 29. It looks like State will have to wait until after their bowl game on December 28 against West Virginia, and his visit in mid-January before they hear any news from Anthony.
As always, for breaking news on NC State football and basketball recruiting, follow me on Twitter @FirstandShort.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Leslie Emerges as Rebounding Leader, Pack Cruise
Through the first few games of the season, the reason for NC State's struggles were clear: rebounding, and losing star forward Tracy Smith didn't help. After being out-rebounded by Georgetown, Fairleigh Dickinson, and Wisconsin, the Pack have bounced back and won the battle on the boards in their last three games.
Such was the case Tuesday afternoon as the Pack routed Alabama A&M 82-51. NC State won the battle on the boards 36-30, led by C.J. Leslie's 11 rebounds. This was Leslie's fourth double-figure rebound game, and he leads the team with 95 on the season.
Along with his recent dominance on the boards, Leslie is third on the team in points per game with over ten a contest. With two ACC Rookie of the Week Awards, Leslie has started to look more and more like the player he was expected to be out of high school.
Though Leslie has provided the spark State has needed to get back on track, the early feeling is that the Pack goes as Scott Wood goes. The sophomore has improved in many statistical categories this season. Those include, points, rebounds, assists, steals, field-goal percentage, free-throw percentage, and three-point percentage.
Wood now leads the team in scoring, and has been the one consistency in State's lineup. He has led by example on the court each and every game, and his 18 points on Tuesday tied his season high.
All in all it was what is was supposed to be for the Pack. They destroyed a small team from the SWAC, and took advantage of the size difference. They were the better team and took care of business the way they should have.
NC State has just two non-conference games left, against San Diego January 1, and on the road at Elon January 5. Then ACC play will be upon the Pack, and Head Coach Sidney Lowe will need to rally his team and prepare them for the most important games of the season. Luckily for the Pack, they begin ACC play with Wake Forest, who has many questions of their own to answer.
Such was the case Tuesday afternoon as the Pack routed Alabama A&M 82-51. NC State won the battle on the boards 36-30, led by C.J. Leslie's 11 rebounds. This was Leslie's fourth double-figure rebound game, and he leads the team with 95 on the season.
Along with his recent dominance on the boards, Leslie is third on the team in points per game with over ten a contest. With two ACC Rookie of the Week Awards, Leslie has started to look more and more like the player he was expected to be out of high school.
Though Leslie has provided the spark State has needed to get back on track, the early feeling is that the Pack goes as Scott Wood goes. The sophomore has improved in many statistical categories this season. Those include, points, rebounds, assists, steals, field-goal percentage, free-throw percentage, and three-point percentage.
Wood now leads the team in scoring, and has been the one consistency in State's lineup. He has led by example on the court each and every game, and his 18 points on Tuesday tied his season high.
All in all it was what is was supposed to be for the Pack. They destroyed a small team from the SWAC, and took advantage of the size difference. They were the better team and took care of business the way they should have.
NC State has just two non-conference games left, against San Diego January 1, and on the road at Elon January 5. Then ACC play will be upon the Pack, and Head Coach Sidney Lowe will need to rally his team and prepare them for the most important games of the season. Luckily for the Pack, they begin ACC play with Wake Forest, who has many questions of their own to answer.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
State Survives, As Lowe Escapes with his Job
On an odd night for ACC hoops, where two conference teams lost to mid-major opponents, and five others escaped upset-bids, NC State found themselves gridlocked with MEAC opponent, Delaware State. Tied at 70 with 37 seconds to go, the Pack broke from a timeout. Now for most teams, this would be the part where a set play was executed to get an open shot or easy look- but the Wolfpack (7-4) aren't like most teams.
The Pack's inability to execute set plays- or even move around without the ball on offense has frustrated fans to no end through their first 11 games. The offense has often consisted of one man trying to beat his man one-on-one while the other four stand around and watch.
Such was the case as the Pack took the floor for the final half minute Wednesday night. Freshman guard Lorenzo Brown drove one-on-one to the basket against his man, then passed to fellow freshman guard Ryan Harrow who was standing in the corner. Harrow put up a contested three-pointer that clanged hard off the rim and fell right into the arms of sophomore forward Scott Wood. Wood, State's sharp-shooter, was scoreless to this point of the game at 0-6 from the floor, and 0-5 from three-point land, put up a leaning shot from the elbow that went in with 2.1 seconds to go.
After a time-out to check the clock, Delaware State inbounded the ball under their own basket. They got the ball into the arms of guard Jay Threatt, who took four dribbles and let fly a shot from 45 feet away that was perfectly online.
I'll stop the story right here for a moment. Surely, Pack fans remember Florida's Chandler Parsons heaving a 75-foot prayer of a game-winner against the Pack last season- on this same court. That shot ended what was an exciting over-time thriller, and arguably the greatest ending to a game the RBC Center has seen in its ten years of existence. Many Pack fans, along with players and coaches appeared nervous when Delaware State set up to inbound the ball in the final seconds.
Threatt's shot appeared to be right on target as started to fall toward the basket. Luckily for State head coach Sidney Lowe, this one hit the rim and bounced out. Sealing a win for the Pack, who may not have deserved it.
"I was thinking, 'Oh, Lord, don't do this to me again,'" said Lowe in a post-game interview.
Lowe's job seems to be in question at the moment. As Pack fan's continue to be displeased with the performance- and hustle, they have seen from the team so far this season. There has just been a lack of effort out of the Pack so far this season. Possibly from frustration of losing to all four BCS conference opponents to this point- and only being real competitive with two of them, or the loss of star forward Tracy Smith to a knee injury that has sidelined him since the second game of the season. Whatever the reason, the Pack need to work their way out of this.
The Pack's early-season frustration was evident during the second half as highly-ranked freshman C.J. Leslie received a technical foul for mouthing off to an official after a touch-foul was called on him. The looks on the faces of some of the State players- and particularly Coach Lowe's, said it all. This season, to this point at least, has not lived up to the hype.
With 20 games left, and not a single conference game under their wing yet, there is lots of time left for this team to improve. First off, Tracy Smith should be back soon. He was expected to see time back on December 4th against Syracuse- but hasn't dressed out for a game since his knee injury on November 18th.
Sidney Lowe's teams have shown improvement throughout the season in each of his first four years in Raleigh, and with the talent this team has on it's roster, that improvement could mean big things. But they'll need big things if they want Lowe to return next season, as first-year Athletic Director Debbie Yow is a no non-sense boss, who will not accept the mediocrity that occurred during former AD Lee Fowler's tenure at State.
The Pack will hit the floor next at home against the Alabama A&M Bulldogs of the SWAC December 28th. I'd expect to see a little more hustle out of the Pack- but then again I've expected to see this ever since they got embarassed by Wisconsin three weeks ago. Here's to hoping we see Tracy Smith, hustle, and better free-throw shooting for the Pack next week, for for now, I'd settle for just one of the three areas to improve.
The Pack's inability to execute set plays- or even move around without the ball on offense has frustrated fans to no end through their first 11 games. The offense has often consisted of one man trying to beat his man one-on-one while the other four stand around and watch.
Such was the case as the Pack took the floor for the final half minute Wednesday night. Freshman guard Lorenzo Brown drove one-on-one to the basket against his man, then passed to fellow freshman guard Ryan Harrow who was standing in the corner. Harrow put up a contested three-pointer that clanged hard off the rim and fell right into the arms of sophomore forward Scott Wood. Wood, State's sharp-shooter, was scoreless to this point of the game at 0-6 from the floor, and 0-5 from three-point land, put up a leaning shot from the elbow that went in with 2.1 seconds to go.
After a time-out to check the clock, Delaware State inbounded the ball under their own basket. They got the ball into the arms of guard Jay Threatt, who took four dribbles and let fly a shot from 45 feet away that was perfectly online.
I'll stop the story right here for a moment. Surely, Pack fans remember Florida's Chandler Parsons heaving a 75-foot prayer of a game-winner against the Pack last season- on this same court. That shot ended what was an exciting over-time thriller, and arguably the greatest ending to a game the RBC Center has seen in its ten years of existence. Many Pack fans, along with players and coaches appeared nervous when Delaware State set up to inbound the ball in the final seconds.
Threatt's shot appeared to be right on target as started to fall toward the basket. Luckily for State head coach Sidney Lowe, this one hit the rim and bounced out. Sealing a win for the Pack, who may not have deserved it.
"I was thinking, 'Oh, Lord, don't do this to me again,'" said Lowe in a post-game interview.
Lowe's job seems to be in question at the moment. As Pack fan's continue to be displeased with the performance- and hustle, they have seen from the team so far this season. There has just been a lack of effort out of the Pack so far this season. Possibly from frustration of losing to all four BCS conference opponents to this point- and only being real competitive with two of them, or the loss of star forward Tracy Smith to a knee injury that has sidelined him since the second game of the season. Whatever the reason, the Pack need to work their way out of this.
The Pack's early-season frustration was evident during the second half as highly-ranked freshman C.J. Leslie received a technical foul for mouthing off to an official after a touch-foul was called on him. The looks on the faces of some of the State players- and particularly Coach Lowe's, said it all. This season, to this point at least, has not lived up to the hype.
With 20 games left, and not a single conference game under their wing yet, there is lots of time left for this team to improve. First off, Tracy Smith should be back soon. He was expected to see time back on December 4th against Syracuse- but hasn't dressed out for a game since his knee injury on November 18th.
Sidney Lowe's teams have shown improvement throughout the season in each of his first four years in Raleigh, and with the talent this team has on it's roster, that improvement could mean big things. But they'll need big things if they want Lowe to return next season, as first-year Athletic Director Debbie Yow is a no non-sense boss, who will not accept the mediocrity that occurred during former AD Lee Fowler's tenure at State.
The Pack will hit the floor next at home against the Alabama A&M Bulldogs of the SWAC December 28th. I'd expect to see a little more hustle out of the Pack- but then again I've expected to see this ever since they got embarassed by Wisconsin three weeks ago. Here's to hoping we see Tracy Smith, hustle, and better free-throw shooting for the Pack next week, for for now, I'd settle for just one of the three areas to improve.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Pack Takes Two After Exam Break
After an impressive performance by State's three freshmen in their 79-60 victory over USC-Upstate on Saturday, Sidney Lowe's Wolfpack hit the floor again Thursday night against Youngstown State.
After a very slow start in the first half, the Pack (6-3) ran away with a 67-50 win, improving their record to 4-0 at home this season. For the second straight game, the three talented freshmen lead the way for the Pack.
In the first game against USC-Upstate, the freshmen combined for 50 of the team's 79 points (Ryan Harrow, 20, Lorenzo Brown, 17, C.J. Leslie, 13). Harrow led the team in steals, Brown led the team in assists, and Leslie led the team in rebounds.
The second game was a career day for Leslie, as he led the Pack on both ends of the floor. His 14 points and 19 rebounds led a slow starting NC State squad. Seven of his 19 rebounds were on the offensive end, and he brought the crowd of over 9,000 to their feet with two electrifying blocks. Harrow and Brown also pulled their weight, scoring 14 points and seven points, respectively.
NC State's rebounding has improved significantly since the first few games of the season. State out-rebounded USC-Upstate 31-29 and Youngstown State 49-32. All of this thanks to Leslie and sophomores Richard Howell, DeShawn Painter, and Jordan Vandenberg, who have all worked together to replace star senior forward Tracy Smith, who has missed the last six games with a knee injury.
The latest update on Smith is that he could have played in both games this week, but is waiting until Sunday's important match-up with Arizona so that he can be as close to 100 percent as possible. The Pack will need a great effort from the players and fans on Sunday, as they will be hosting three recruits on their official visits. IMG Academy teammates DeAndre Daniels (Four-star power forward) and Christian Garrett (shooting guard) will be in attendance, along with Nemanja Djurisic, the three-star power forward out of South Kent, CT.
Sunday will present the Pack with their most difficult non-conference game remaining on the schedule. A win would probably mean that the Pack will finish 11-3 in non-conference play, setting themselves up for what will need to be a solid conference record.
After a very slow start in the first half, the Pack (6-3) ran away with a 67-50 win, improving their record to 4-0 at home this season. For the second straight game, the three talented freshmen lead the way for the Pack.
In the first game against USC-Upstate, the freshmen combined for 50 of the team's 79 points (Ryan Harrow, 20, Lorenzo Brown, 17, C.J. Leslie, 13). Harrow led the team in steals, Brown led the team in assists, and Leslie led the team in rebounds.
The second game was a career day for Leslie, as he led the Pack on both ends of the floor. His 14 points and 19 rebounds led a slow starting NC State squad. Seven of his 19 rebounds were on the offensive end, and he brought the crowd of over 9,000 to their feet with two electrifying blocks. Harrow and Brown also pulled their weight, scoring 14 points and seven points, respectively.
NC State's rebounding has improved significantly since the first few games of the season. State out-rebounded USC-Upstate 31-29 and Youngstown State 49-32. All of this thanks to Leslie and sophomores Richard Howell, DeShawn Painter, and Jordan Vandenberg, who have all worked together to replace star senior forward Tracy Smith, who has missed the last six games with a knee injury.
The latest update on Smith is that he could have played in both games this week, but is waiting until Sunday's important match-up with Arizona so that he can be as close to 100 percent as possible. The Pack will need a great effort from the players and fans on Sunday, as they will be hosting three recruits on their official visits. IMG Academy teammates DeAndre Daniels (Four-star power forward) and Christian Garrett (shooting guard) will be in attendance, along with Nemanja Djurisic, the three-star power forward out of South Kent, CT.
Sunday will present the Pack with their most difficult non-conference game remaining on the schedule. A win would probably mean that the Pack will finish 11-3 in non-conference play, setting themselves up for what will need to be a solid conference record.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
State Snags Recruit from Deacs
Recruiting for Tom O'Brien this season has been slow, to say the least. With just 11 commitments, the 2011 class for NC State is ranked as the 84th best in the country. But things seem to be looking up for the Pack, as Simpsonville (SC) Hillcrest defensive end Mike Rose de-committed from Wake Forest and signed with NC State on Friday.
ESPN grades Rose as a 76, as an athlete, but Scout has him as the 95th best outside linebacker in the class and a three-star recruit, which makes him one of the top NC State recruits in the 2011 class.
In his senior season at Hillcrest, Rose showed off his athleticism and versatility as he recorded 86 tackles, seven sacks, caused five fumbles and blocked three kicks; he also ran for four touchdowns.
Rose is an incredible athlete. At 6-3 and 215 pounds, he runs a 4.45 forty yard dash. His speed is backed up by his desire to run track for the Pack, as he runs the 100m at Hillcrest. His speed is complemented by his strength- he benches 275-pounds, squats 380 and has a 33-inch vertical jump.
The signing of Mike Rose could be an affect of the 8-4 regular season record, and things could really heat up on the recruiting trail for the Pack if they can beat nationally ranked West Virginia in the Champs Sports Bowl.
ESPN grades Rose as a 76, as an athlete, but Scout has him as the 95th best outside linebacker in the class and a three-star recruit, which makes him one of the top NC State recruits in the 2011 class.
In his senior season at Hillcrest, Rose showed off his athleticism and versatility as he recorded 86 tackles, seven sacks, caused five fumbles and blocked three kicks; he also ran for four touchdowns.
Rose is an incredible athlete. At 6-3 and 215 pounds, he runs a 4.45 forty yard dash. His speed is backed up by his desire to run track for the Pack, as he runs the 100m at Hillcrest. His speed is complemented by his strength- he benches 275-pounds, squats 380 and has a 33-inch vertical jump.
The signing of Mike Rose could be an affect of the 8-4 regular season record, and things could really heat up on the recruiting trail for the Pack if they can beat nationally ranked West Virginia in the Champs Sports Bowl.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
ACC Power Rankings: End of Regular Season
Who ya got in the Orange Bowl: Hokies or Cardinal?
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies did it. They went undefeated in conference play and finished it off by beating Florida State in the ACCCG, on to the Orange Bowl to play Stanford.
(2) Florida State Seminoles
The Seminoles were handed a gift by NC State to put them in the ACCCG, but failed to capitalize on their opportunity. They'll head to Atlanta for the Chic-Fil-A Bowl as a consolation prize.
(3) NC State Wolfpack
The Pack finished 8-4, but they could have easily won 10 games this year. They'll head to Orlando for the Champs Sports Bowl to play West Virginia, a win would probably put the Pack in the top 25 in the final poll.
(4) Maryland Terrapins
Maryland fans are quite upset about falling all the way to the Military Bowl, where they will play East Carolina. But considering that they finished 2-10 last season, I think the improvement to 8-4 warranted a better bowl game. Either way, the Fridge keeps his job for another year.
(5) Miami Hurricanes
The Sun Bowl was not the goal for the Hurricanes this season, and failing to reach their goal of an upper-tier bowl game cost Randy Shannon his job. Now the long search for his replacement is under way.
(6) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Not the season the Yellow Jackets were hoping for after winning the ACC title a year ago, they'll head to the Independence Bowl to play the Air Force Falcons.
(7) Boston College Eagles
The Eagles won five straight games to finish the season, and will head to the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl to play Nevada, no complaints in Chestnut Hill after the horrific start to their season.
(8) Clemson Tigers
The Meineke Car Care Bowl will be the destination for the Tigers, where they will play South Florida. With the return of Kyle Parker for his senior season, expectations were higher than this.
(9) North Carolina Tar Heels
Through all of the distractions, Butch Davis still managed to pull seven wins out of this season. Their reward? Playing Tennessee in the Music City Bowl.
(10) Virginia Cavaliers
This program is further along than their 4-8 record shows, and there is a plan in place for the Virginia program to grow. With Mike London in charge, they should be preparing for a bowl game this time next season.
(11) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
The Demon Deacons beat Vanderbilt. Other than that, there is always next year.
(12) Duke Blue Devils
I've said it once and I'll say it again. David Cutcliffe could be the head coach in Knoxville right now- he must know something we don't about the future of Duke football.
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies did it. They went undefeated in conference play and finished it off by beating Florida State in the ACCCG, on to the Orange Bowl to play Stanford.
(2) Florida State Seminoles
The Seminoles were handed a gift by NC State to put them in the ACCCG, but failed to capitalize on their opportunity. They'll head to Atlanta for the Chic-Fil-A Bowl as a consolation prize.
(3) NC State Wolfpack
The Pack finished 8-4, but they could have easily won 10 games this year. They'll head to Orlando for the Champs Sports Bowl to play West Virginia, a win would probably put the Pack in the top 25 in the final poll.
(4) Maryland Terrapins
Maryland fans are quite upset about falling all the way to the Military Bowl, where they will play East Carolina. But considering that they finished 2-10 last season, I think the improvement to 8-4 warranted a better bowl game. Either way, the Fridge keeps his job for another year.
(5) Miami Hurricanes
The Sun Bowl was not the goal for the Hurricanes this season, and failing to reach their goal of an upper-tier bowl game cost Randy Shannon his job. Now the long search for his replacement is under way.
(6) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Not the season the Yellow Jackets were hoping for after winning the ACC title a year ago, they'll head to the Independence Bowl to play the Air Force Falcons.
(7) Boston College Eagles
The Eagles won five straight games to finish the season, and will head to the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl to play Nevada, no complaints in Chestnut Hill after the horrific start to their season.
(8) Clemson Tigers
The Meineke Car Care Bowl will be the destination for the Tigers, where they will play South Florida. With the return of Kyle Parker for his senior season, expectations were higher than this.
(9) North Carolina Tar Heels
Through all of the distractions, Butch Davis still managed to pull seven wins out of this season. Their reward? Playing Tennessee in the Music City Bowl.
(10) Virginia Cavaliers
This program is further along than their 4-8 record shows, and there is a plan in place for the Virginia program to grow. With Mike London in charge, they should be preparing for a bowl game this time next season.
(11) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
The Demon Deacons beat Vanderbilt. Other than that, there is always next year.
(12) Duke Blue Devils
I've said it once and I'll say it again. David Cutcliffe could be the head coach in Knoxville right now- he must know something we don't about the future of Duke football.
Pack Impressive in Loss
As stated in an earlier post, A New Lowe, I said "a loss wouldn't be the end of the world if State plays with heart, hustles to loose balls, and plays the seventh ranked Orange close," and losing 65-59 would definitely fit that bill.
Sure, the Wolfpack (4-3) lost, but I doubt anyone expected this team without injured senior Tracy Smith to go into the Carrier Dome, three days after losing by nearly 40 at Wisconsin, and take it to Syracuse. As expected, Scott Wood got his shots against the Syracuse zone defense, and finished with six three pointers for a team high 18 points in 39 minutes of action, but the sophomore went cold late when the Pack needed him the most.
As well as they played, they still failed to score a basket in the final 7:20 of the game. Another game, another drought for the Pack, this one following a 10 minute scoring drought against Wisconsin. This turned a six point Pack lead into a six point deficit, costing State the ballgame- that and their 17 turnovers.
How about C.J. Leslie? In his most complete game of his career, the highly regarded freshman showed fans what they were expecting to see when he committed to play for the Pack last spring. His 13 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks kept State in the game, and lead State to a surprising 34-29 advantage on the boards.
Eight different players scored for the Pack, with Wood and Leslie being the only two in double figures. Scoop Jardine led Syracuse with 23 points, as only he and Rick Jackson (16) scored in double-figures for the Orange.
Getting out-shot at the free-throw line also set the Pack back, as Syracuse got to the line 26 times to the Pack's 11. Foul trouble once again played a role for the Pack as Tracy Smith's replacements couldn't keep up in the paint, leading to Richard Howell and DeShawn Painter both finishing with four fouls.
The Pack will look to end this two game losing streak against USC-Upstate this Saturday at home. Tracy Smith is expected to be in the line-up for the first time since the Charleston Classic, and it should be a good chance for him to get back into the swing of things.
Sure, the Wolfpack (4-3) lost, but I doubt anyone expected this team without injured senior Tracy Smith to go into the Carrier Dome, three days after losing by nearly 40 at Wisconsin, and take it to Syracuse. As expected, Scott Wood got his shots against the Syracuse zone defense, and finished with six three pointers for a team high 18 points in 39 minutes of action, but the sophomore went cold late when the Pack needed him the most.
As well as they played, they still failed to score a basket in the final 7:20 of the game. Another game, another drought for the Pack, this one following a 10 minute scoring drought against Wisconsin. This turned a six point Pack lead into a six point deficit, costing State the ballgame- that and their 17 turnovers.
How about C.J. Leslie? In his most complete game of his career, the highly regarded freshman showed fans what they were expecting to see when he committed to play for the Pack last spring. His 13 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks kept State in the game, and lead State to a surprising 34-29 advantage on the boards.
Eight different players scored for the Pack, with Wood and Leslie being the only two in double figures. Scoop Jardine led Syracuse with 23 points, as only he and Rick Jackson (16) scored in double-figures for the Orange.
Getting out-shot at the free-throw line also set the Pack back, as Syracuse got to the line 26 times to the Pack's 11. Foul trouble once again played a role for the Pack as Tracy Smith's replacements couldn't keep up in the paint, leading to Richard Howell and DeShawn Painter both finishing with four fouls.
The Pack will look to end this two game losing streak against USC-Upstate this Saturday at home. Tracy Smith is expected to be in the line-up for the first time since the Charleston Classic, and it should be a good chance for him to get back into the swing of things.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
A New Lowe
Before we discuss last night's embarrassment at the hands of the Wisconsin Badgers in the ACC/Big 10 Challenge, lets quickly eliminate a couple of possible excuses the Pack (4-2) might have had for losing 87-48. And for those of you who might be wondering, this is State's worst loss in eleven years.
Possible excuse number one: No Tracy Smith. We knew this would play a factor, as it forced three sophomores, Richard Howell, Jordan Vandenberg, and DeShawn Painter to cover the versatile Jon Leuer. In the end, Howell and Vandenberg fouled out, and Painter finished with four fouls. For comparison, the three finished with 16 points and 14 fouls while Leuer ended up with 22 points and 11 rebounds (he's averaging nearly 19 and eight), so his numbers weren't too much better than usual. Even had Smith been in the game, his 6-8 frame would do little but foul Leuer like his three teammates did.
Possible excuse number two: The Kohl Center. So much is made of the hostile environment at the Kohl Center in Madison. Sure they are 70-5 against non-conference opponents at home under Bo Ryan, and yes they beat Duke at home last year, but come on, so did State. The crowd of a little over 17,000 did little to make the Pack feel uncomfortable. Most of the time the only noise from the crowd was laughter and an "aww" when Scott Wood's layup ended a 10 minute scoring drought in the second half.
The only viable excuse for this loss (besides the obvious lack of effort) was coaching. Sidney Lowe failed to have his team motivated and prepared for the versatility and patience of Wisconsin's athletes. If he did in fact have his team prepared, it only showed for the first six minutes. After that things fell apart quickly.
Wisconsin started shooting the lights out, as they shot an even 50 percent from the floor, and an incredible 55 percent (11-20) from three-point land. Of course, most good teams will hit about half of their unguarded threes, as most of the time there wasn't a State player with five feet of the shooter. Heck, my Cary Parks and Recreation basketball team from elementary school would have knocked a few of those down (with the exception of the Jordan Taylor long bomb that brought back memories of J.J. Redick hitting 35 footers against the Pack back in the day).
Before the final horn mercifully sounded, State fans were hitting the panic button, several forum topics with titles similar to "Top choices for next year's basketball head coach" and "Fire Sidney Lowe, tired of being a J.O.K.E." were already in action.
I'm not jumping ship... yet. If you could find anything encouraging from last night's game, it was the play of sophomore Scott Wood. His 13 points lead the Pack, and he played within the game the whole night. Not once did he give up on a play, let up on defense, or try to do too much. Hopefully this will spark the sharp-shooter, as he will definitely get his chances to shoot against Syracuse's zone defense on Saturday.
Don't forget about this freshman class, either. They were highly regarded for a reason, and I think they'll reach their potential as they learn the in's and out's of college basketball. The three (Lorenzo Brown, C.J. Leslie, and Ryan Harrow) did combine for exactly one-third of the Pack's 48 points, but several times turned the ball over trying to do too much. They'll settle down and get more comfortable with State's style of play over the next few weeks.
I'm going to do what every coach preaches after a big win or a tough loss, I'm going to put this one behind us and look toward Saturday. This season is not lost, I mean, with the exception of Duke, did you see how crummy the ACC is over the last few nights? There is still time to salvage this season. Saturday for all intents and purposes, is D-Day for this season of Wolfpack basketball. They can either play like they did last night (and lose by what is surely going to be worse than last night due to the fast pace play of Syracuse, and their incredible zone defense) or come out ready to play and prove themselves.
That being said, a loss wouldn't be the end of the world if State plays with heart, hustles to loose balls, and plays the seventh ranked Orange close. It would probably give them some confidence knowing that they are not as bad as last night's embarrassment might have shown. A win could really turn this season around. Without a doubt if the Pack beats the Orange in the Carrier Dome Saturday evening, it will propel them through what should be a fairly easy December schedule. Oh, and one final note while we're on a rare note of optimism for today, Tracy Smith stated yesterday that he is a "maybe" for the Syracuse game.
Possible excuse number one: No Tracy Smith. We knew this would play a factor, as it forced three sophomores, Richard Howell, Jordan Vandenberg, and DeShawn Painter to cover the versatile Jon Leuer. In the end, Howell and Vandenberg fouled out, and Painter finished with four fouls. For comparison, the three finished with 16 points and 14 fouls while Leuer ended up with 22 points and 11 rebounds (he's averaging nearly 19 and eight), so his numbers weren't too much better than usual. Even had Smith been in the game, his 6-8 frame would do little but foul Leuer like his three teammates did.
Possible excuse number two: The Kohl Center. So much is made of the hostile environment at the Kohl Center in Madison. Sure they are 70-5 against non-conference opponents at home under Bo Ryan, and yes they beat Duke at home last year, but come on, so did State. The crowd of a little over 17,000 did little to make the Pack feel uncomfortable. Most of the time the only noise from the crowd was laughter and an "aww" when Scott Wood's layup ended a 10 minute scoring drought in the second half.
The only viable excuse for this loss (besides the obvious lack of effort) was coaching. Sidney Lowe failed to have his team motivated and prepared for the versatility and patience of Wisconsin's athletes. If he did in fact have his team prepared, it only showed for the first six minutes. After that things fell apart quickly.
Wisconsin started shooting the lights out, as they shot an even 50 percent from the floor, and an incredible 55 percent (11-20) from three-point land. Of course, most good teams will hit about half of their unguarded threes, as most of the time there wasn't a State player with five feet of the shooter. Heck, my Cary Parks and Recreation basketball team from elementary school would have knocked a few of those down (with the exception of the Jordan Taylor long bomb that brought back memories of J.J. Redick hitting 35 footers against the Pack back in the day).
Before the final horn mercifully sounded, State fans were hitting the panic button, several forum topics with titles similar to "Top choices for next year's basketball head coach" and "Fire Sidney Lowe, tired of being a J.O.K.E." were already in action.
I'm not jumping ship... yet. If you could find anything encouraging from last night's game, it was the play of sophomore Scott Wood. His 13 points lead the Pack, and he played within the game the whole night. Not once did he give up on a play, let up on defense, or try to do too much. Hopefully this will spark the sharp-shooter, as he will definitely get his chances to shoot against Syracuse's zone defense on Saturday.
Don't forget about this freshman class, either. They were highly regarded for a reason, and I think they'll reach their potential as they learn the in's and out's of college basketball. The three (Lorenzo Brown, C.J. Leslie, and Ryan Harrow) did combine for exactly one-third of the Pack's 48 points, but several times turned the ball over trying to do too much. They'll settle down and get more comfortable with State's style of play over the next few weeks.
I'm going to do what every coach preaches after a big win or a tough loss, I'm going to put this one behind us and look toward Saturday. This season is not lost, I mean, with the exception of Duke, did you see how crummy the ACC is over the last few nights? There is still time to salvage this season. Saturday for all intents and purposes, is D-Day for this season of Wolfpack basketball. They can either play like they did last night (and lose by what is surely going to be worse than last night due to the fast pace play of Syracuse, and their incredible zone defense) or come out ready to play and prove themselves.
That being said, a loss wouldn't be the end of the world if State plays with heart, hustles to loose balls, and plays the seventh ranked Orange close. It would probably give them some confidence knowing that they are not as bad as last night's embarrassment might have shown. A win could really turn this season around. Without a doubt if the Pack beats the Orange in the Carrier Dome Saturday evening, it will propel them through what should be a fairly easy December schedule. Oh, and one final note while we're on a rare note of optimism for today, Tracy Smith stated yesterday that he is a "maybe" for the Syracuse game.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
ACC Power Rankings After Week 13
Hokies and Seminoles, see you on December 4th in Charlotte, should be a good one.
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies did it. They went undefeated in conference play and are set for the ACCCG in Charlotte on December 4.
(2) Florida State Seminoles
What more could you want out of a weekend as a Seminole? You blast Florida, get help and make it to the ACCCG, and rival Miami fires their head coach. Life is good... for now until you have to deal with Virginia Tech on Dec. 4, a challenge the Seminoles don't mind one bit.
(3) NC State Wolfpack
Once again the Pack snatches defeat from the jaws of victory. Golden opportunity to win the Atlantic Division blown by their loss to Maryland after being up 14-0. This team could easily be 10-2 or better, they just can't seem to get it all together.
(4) Maryland Terrapins
It must have been a great feeling for Kernersville, North Carolina native Danny O'Brien to throw four touchdowns against an NC State team that didn't even offer him a scholarship. A win that kept NC State out of the ACC Championship Game and propelled Maryland to an eight win season.
(5) Miami Hurricanes
Losing to a non-conference team from the state of Florida that is not the Gators is unacceptable. Randy Shannon learned that after his Hurricanes lost to South Florida 23-20 on Saturday, leading to his termination. Unlike LeBron, Shannon will not be taking his talents to South Beach next season.
(6) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Much like Clemson, the Jackets lost to an in-state rival in Georgia. Even during a down year Georgia beat the Jackets. It is hard to believe Paul Johnson lead this team to an ACC Championship last season.
(7) Boston College Eagles
The Eagles won five straight games to finish the season, and will head to a bowl game. In their season finale victory over Syracuse, the Eagles' defense stifled the Orange, allowing just seven points.
(8) Clemson Tigers
6-6? Really? Kyle Parker passed up a major league baseball contract with the Rockies to go 6-6? Yes, the last loss being to in-state rival South Carolina, who will play for the SEC Championship while Clemson sits at home waiting to hear about which crummy bowl game they'll go to in December.
(9) North Carolina Tar Heels
There are still many questions to be answered in Chapel Hill surrounding head coach Butch Davis and the Tar Heel football program. One question that they answered on Saturday, they still own Duke.
(10) Virginia Cavaliers
No Commonwealth Cup victory for the Cavaliers over Virginia Tech, but hey, no one else in the ACC could beat the Hokies either. This program is further along than their 4-8 record shows, and there is a plan in place for the Virginia program to grow.
(11) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Say what you want about how the ACC is not one of the superior conferences, but Wake Forest proved Saturday that the ACC's worst team is better than the SEC's worst team, beating Vanderbilt convincingly 34-14 on the road. This win should give the Wake Forest seniors a little something to be proud of about their last year in the program.
(12) Duke Blue Devils
David Cutcliffe could be the head coach in Knoxville right now- he must know something we don't about the future of Duke football.
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies did it. They went undefeated in conference play and are set for the ACCCG in Charlotte on December 4.
(2) Florida State Seminoles
What more could you want out of a weekend as a Seminole? You blast Florida, get help and make it to the ACCCG, and rival Miami fires their head coach. Life is good... for now until you have to deal with Virginia Tech on Dec. 4, a challenge the Seminoles don't mind one bit.
(3) NC State Wolfpack
Once again the Pack snatches defeat from the jaws of victory. Golden opportunity to win the Atlantic Division blown by their loss to Maryland after being up 14-0. This team could easily be 10-2 or better, they just can't seem to get it all together.
(4) Maryland Terrapins
It must have been a great feeling for Kernersville, North Carolina native Danny O'Brien to throw four touchdowns against an NC State team that didn't even offer him a scholarship. A win that kept NC State out of the ACC Championship Game and propelled Maryland to an eight win season.
(5) Miami Hurricanes
Losing to a non-conference team from the state of Florida that is not the Gators is unacceptable. Randy Shannon learned that after his Hurricanes lost to South Florida 23-20 on Saturday, leading to his termination. Unlike LeBron, Shannon will not be taking his talents to South Beach next season.
(6) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Much like Clemson, the Jackets lost to an in-state rival in Georgia. Even during a down year Georgia beat the Jackets. It is hard to believe Paul Johnson lead this team to an ACC Championship last season.
(7) Boston College Eagles
The Eagles won five straight games to finish the season, and will head to a bowl game. In their season finale victory over Syracuse, the Eagles' defense stifled the Orange, allowing just seven points.
(8) Clemson Tigers
6-6? Really? Kyle Parker passed up a major league baseball contract with the Rockies to go 6-6? Yes, the last loss being to in-state rival South Carolina, who will play for the SEC Championship while Clemson sits at home waiting to hear about which crummy bowl game they'll go to in December.
(9) North Carolina Tar Heels
There are still many questions to be answered in Chapel Hill surrounding head coach Butch Davis and the Tar Heel football program. One question that they answered on Saturday, they still own Duke.
(10) Virginia Cavaliers
No Commonwealth Cup victory for the Cavaliers over Virginia Tech, but hey, no one else in the ACC could beat the Hokies either. This program is further along than their 4-8 record shows, and there is a plan in place for the Virginia program to grow.
(11) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Say what you want about how the ACC is not one of the superior conferences, but Wake Forest proved Saturday that the ACC's worst team is better than the SEC's worst team, beating Vanderbilt convincingly 34-14 on the road. This win should give the Wake Forest seniors a little something to be proud of about their last year in the program.
(12) Duke Blue Devils
David Cutcliffe could be the head coach in Knoxville right now- he must know something we don't about the future of Duke football.
Pack Hoops Faces Big Week
After an uninspiring performance by Sidney Lowe's Wolfpack against Fairleigh Dickinson (win, 77-67), the Pack sits at 4-1, with the lone loss to a ranked Georgetown team in the finals of the Charleston Classic.
Maybe there was a bit of a hangover from that loss, or maybe it was the "crowd that felt like 150" as a peer of mine stated to me, but whatever it was, State needs to clean it up, and quickly. Getting out-rebounded by Fairleigh Dickinson, even without star-forward Tracy Smith, is unacceptable.
The Pack will hit the road for a pair of tough non-conference games. First, they'll take on Wisconsin at the Kohl Center, a place where road teams never fare well (ask Duke, who lost there last season), in the ACC/Big-10 Challenge (Wednesday, 7:15). Then three days later they'll head to the Carrier Dome to take on number 9 Syracuse (Saturday, 5:15).
In the first game, State will have their hands full with Wisconsin's senior forward Jon Leuer. Leuer is averaging 18 points and 7 rebounds per game for the Badgers. His 6-10, 230 pound frame will cause match-up problems for State's big men. Not to mention, he is 9-18 from behind the arc this year. State will have to devise a plan to stop Leuer, play him man-to-man will result in disaster.
Against Syracuse, the Pack will need to keep tabs on junior Scoop Jardine. The 6-2 point guard from Philadelphia is second on the team in points per game (12.8) and leads the Orange in assists with 7 per game. After failing to score in the season opener against Northern Iowa, Jardine has scored at least 11 points in every game since. State's best bet for slowing him down might be to keep freshman stand-out guard Lorenzo Brown covering Jardine everywhere he goes.
One thing's for sure, a win in one (or both) of these two games would go a long way for the Pack when they show off their resume to the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee, and the momentum could help them string off a bunch of wins in December as they prepare for ACC play.
Maybe there was a bit of a hangover from that loss, or maybe it was the "crowd that felt like 150" as a peer of mine stated to me, but whatever it was, State needs to clean it up, and quickly. Getting out-rebounded by Fairleigh Dickinson, even without star-forward Tracy Smith, is unacceptable.
The Pack will hit the road for a pair of tough non-conference games. First, they'll take on Wisconsin at the Kohl Center, a place where road teams never fare well (ask Duke, who lost there last season), in the ACC/Big-10 Challenge (Wednesday, 7:15). Then three days later they'll head to the Carrier Dome to take on number 9 Syracuse (Saturday, 5:15).
In the first game, State will have their hands full with Wisconsin's senior forward Jon Leuer. Leuer is averaging 18 points and 7 rebounds per game for the Badgers. His 6-10, 230 pound frame will cause match-up problems for State's big men. Not to mention, he is 9-18 from behind the arc this year. State will have to devise a plan to stop Leuer, play him man-to-man will result in disaster.
Against Syracuse, the Pack will need to keep tabs on junior Scoop Jardine. The 6-2 point guard from Philadelphia is second on the team in points per game (12.8) and leads the Orange in assists with 7 per game. After failing to score in the season opener against Northern Iowa, Jardine has scored at least 11 points in every game since. State's best bet for slowing him down might be to keep freshman stand-out guard Lorenzo Brown covering Jardine everywhere he goes.
One thing's for sure, a win in one (or both) of these two games would go a long way for the Pack when they show off their resume to the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee, and the momentum could help them string off a bunch of wins in December as they prepare for ACC play.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
ACC Power Rankings After Week 12
Hokies and Wolfpack, see you in Charlotte on December 4th.
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies have now officially clinched the Coastal Division following their win over Miami on Saturday, where they used two fourth quarter touchdowns to put away the Hurricanes After nine straight wins, I can't see them losing to Virginia this week.
(2) NC State Wolfpack
State has controlled their own destiny for all but a few hours this season. Now that they are back in control of the Atlantic Division, all they have to do is beat Maryland this Saturday and they clinch the Atlantic Division- I like their chances, and I think they'll play Virginia Tech on Dec. 4th.
(3) Florida State Seminoles
Florida State's win over Maryland gives them a chance to still win the Atlantic- but they'll still need help from Maryland on Saturday. The 25th ranked Seminoles got another good performance from their defense- who are now the fifteenth best defense in the country. I think the 'Noles will surprise a lot of people this Saturday with their performance against Florida.
(4) Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes lost to Virginia Tech, finishing up their ACC schedule at 5-3. That's not going to get it done for Randy Shannon, who had the pressure on him to start the season.
(5) Maryland Terrapins
Following their loss to Florida State on Saturday night, the Terrapins are no longer in the race for the Atlantic Division title, but they'll still go to a bowl game and they have made great improvement from their 2-10 season last year.
(6) Clemson Tigers
The Tigers became bowl eligible by beating the ACC's worst team, Wake Forest 30-10. Though, 4-4 was not what Kyle Parker passed up a professional baseball contract for, he can still go out in style if the Tigers can knock off rival South Carolina this Saturday night.
(8) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Much like Clemson, the Jackets became bowl eligible on Saturday with their win, and have only their non-conference rivalry game remaining at Georgia. They are still number one in the country in rushing yards per game, but it was the air attack showed signs of life on Saturday when they beat Duke.
(7) North Carolina Tar Heels
Tough loss for the Tar Heels, as they lost to rival NC State for a fourth straight year. Now I think Butch Davis' job might be in question.
(9) Boston College Eagles
Well they haven't made it look easy, but the Eagles have taken advantage of their easy November schedule. Four straight ACC wins against teams at the bottom of the conference will send Boston College, along with eight other ACC teams, to a bowl game this post-season.
(10) Virginia Cavaliers
Mike London can make a huge first impression on Cavalier fans this Saturday if he can manage to upset Virginia Tech for the Commonwealth Cup this Saturday. Unfortunately for him, there is too much of a talent gap for Virginia to overcome, even against a Tech team who has already clinched the Coastal Division.
(11) Duke Blue Devils
Duke blasted Colgate Friday night, Irving nearly had a double-double with 13 points and 9 assists- wait this is for football? The Devils just keep going through the motions, maybe they'll beat Carolina in the season finale this year. Hey, it could happen.
(12) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
When you're 97th in the country in points per game, and 114th in points given up per game, you're bound to be last in the Power Poll.
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies have now officially clinched the Coastal Division following their win over Miami on Saturday, where they used two fourth quarter touchdowns to put away the Hurricanes After nine straight wins, I can't see them losing to Virginia this week.
(2) NC State Wolfpack
State has controlled their own destiny for all but a few hours this season. Now that they are back in control of the Atlantic Division, all they have to do is beat Maryland this Saturday and they clinch the Atlantic Division- I like their chances, and I think they'll play Virginia Tech on Dec. 4th.
(3) Florida State Seminoles
Florida State's win over Maryland gives them a chance to still win the Atlantic- but they'll still need help from Maryland on Saturday. The 25th ranked Seminoles got another good performance from their defense- who are now the fifteenth best defense in the country. I think the 'Noles will surprise a lot of people this Saturday with their performance against Florida.
(4) Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes lost to Virginia Tech, finishing up their ACC schedule at 5-3. That's not going to get it done for Randy Shannon, who had the pressure on him to start the season.
(5) Maryland Terrapins
Following their loss to Florida State on Saturday night, the Terrapins are no longer in the race for the Atlantic Division title, but they'll still go to a bowl game and they have made great improvement from their 2-10 season last year.
(6) Clemson Tigers
The Tigers became bowl eligible by beating the ACC's worst team, Wake Forest 30-10. Though, 4-4 was not what Kyle Parker passed up a professional baseball contract for, he can still go out in style if the Tigers can knock off rival South Carolina this Saturday night.
(8) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Much like Clemson, the Jackets became bowl eligible on Saturday with their win, and have only their non-conference rivalry game remaining at Georgia. They are still number one in the country in rushing yards per game, but it was the air attack showed signs of life on Saturday when they beat Duke.
(7) North Carolina Tar Heels
Tough loss for the Tar Heels, as they lost to rival NC State for a fourth straight year. Now I think Butch Davis' job might be in question.
(9) Boston College Eagles
Well they haven't made it look easy, but the Eagles have taken advantage of their easy November schedule. Four straight ACC wins against teams at the bottom of the conference will send Boston College, along with eight other ACC teams, to a bowl game this post-season.
(10) Virginia Cavaliers
Mike London can make a huge first impression on Cavalier fans this Saturday if he can manage to upset Virginia Tech for the Commonwealth Cup this Saturday. Unfortunately for him, there is too much of a talent gap for Virginia to overcome, even against a Tech team who has already clinched the Coastal Division.
(11) Duke Blue Devils
Duke blasted Colgate Friday night, Irving nearly had a double-double with 13 points and 9 assists- wait this is for football? The Devils just keep going through the motions, maybe they'll beat Carolina in the season finale this year. Hey, it could happen.
(12) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
When you're 97th in the country in points per game, and 114th in points given up per game, you're bound to be last in the Power Poll.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Howell's Double-Double Powers Pack
The day could not have started off any worse for Sidney Lowe's Wolfpack. Star forward Tracy Smith headed back to Raleigh with a knee injury that will keep him out of the rest of the Charleston Classic, and could possibly be out for six to eight weeks. No results have been released concerning the scope done in his knee.
In their first game without Smith, the Pack, much like last night, received great games from their role players, as the they defeated George Mason 78-65. Richard Howell lead the Pack on the boards with eleven rebounds, and added 13 points along with it, earning his first double-double of the season.
NC State got 31 bench points- the most significant contributions from Howell and freshman point guard Ryan Harrow (14 points). The Pack had three other players score in double figures (Scott Wood, 13, C.J. Leslie, 11, Javier Gonzalez, 10).
Even without Smith, the Pack won the battle on the boards, 35-27. This was the second straight night that the Pack had 35 rebounds, as ten of them came on the offensive end.
For the first time all season the Pack got the three-pointer to work for them. Wood made four by himself, as the team was 8-19 from behind the arc on the night.
State will now play Georgetown on Sunday night for the championship. It will be a good test for the Wolfpack, as Georgetown is ranked 21st in the nation. State will need to continue to play hard on the defensive end if they want to have a chance to win, and rebounding will be a must.
In their first game without Smith, the Pack, much like last night, received great games from their role players, as the they defeated George Mason 78-65. Richard Howell lead the Pack on the boards with eleven rebounds, and added 13 points along with it, earning his first double-double of the season.
NC State got 31 bench points- the most significant contributions from Howell and freshman point guard Ryan Harrow (14 points). The Pack had three other players score in double figures (Scott Wood, 13, C.J. Leslie, 11, Javier Gonzalez, 10).
Even without Smith, the Pack won the battle on the boards, 35-27. This was the second straight night that the Pack had 35 rebounds, as ten of them came on the offensive end.
For the first time all season the Pack got the three-pointer to work for them. Wood made four by himself, as the team was 8-19 from behind the arc on the night.
State will now play Georgetown on Sunday night for the championship. It will be a good test for the Wolfpack, as Georgetown is ranked 21st in the nation. State will need to continue to play hard on the defensive end if they want to have a chance to win, and rebounding will be a must.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
State Uses Second Half Run to Blow Past Pirates
With star forward Tracy Smith on the bench with an apparent knee injury coming out of the second half and a 37-29 lead over East Carolina, NC State needed someone to step up in order to pull away from the Pirates. What they got was productivity from everyone as they exploded out of the gates, racing out to a 31 point lead at one point.
State used a 42-10 run to race past East Carolina in the opening round of the Charleston Classic. The Pack will take on the winner of the Charlotte/George Mason game tomorrow night at 8:30 in the semifinals.
The Pack received double-double's out of sophomore forward DeShawn Painter and freshman guard Ryan Harrow- both the first of their careers. Painter had 12 points and 10 rebounds, Harrow scored 11 points and had 10 assists.
Surprisingly quiet in the game was star freshman forward C.J. Leslie. Leslie finished the game with just four points and two rebounds in 16 minutes of action.
NC State used its quick transition game to push the pace and score easy baskets in the second half, as guards Harrow and Lorenzo Brown made quick passes to get the forwards easy layups.
Eleven different players scored for the Pack, with five in double-figures (Brown, 16, Scott Wood, 13, Painter, 12, Harrow, 11, and C.J. Williams, 10).
The most significant improvement from State's first game of the season (82-69 win over Tennessee Tech)? Rebounding. The Pack beat the Pirates on the boards 35-30, and controlled the paint most of the game.
State looked dominating in the second half, and will look to carry their momentum from tonight's blowout win into tomorrow's semifinal contest.
State used a 42-10 run to race past East Carolina in the opening round of the Charleston Classic. The Pack will take on the winner of the Charlotte/George Mason game tomorrow night at 8:30 in the semifinals.
The Pack received double-double's out of sophomore forward DeShawn Painter and freshman guard Ryan Harrow- both the first of their careers. Painter had 12 points and 10 rebounds, Harrow scored 11 points and had 10 assists.
Surprisingly quiet in the game was star freshman forward C.J. Leslie. Leslie finished the game with just four points and two rebounds in 16 minutes of action.
NC State used its quick transition game to push the pace and score easy baskets in the second half, as guards Harrow and Lorenzo Brown made quick passes to get the forwards easy layups.
Eleven different players scored for the Pack, with five in double-figures (Brown, 16, Scott Wood, 13, Painter, 12, Harrow, 11, and C.J. Williams, 10).
The most significant improvement from State's first game of the season (82-69 win over Tennessee Tech)? Rebounding. The Pack beat the Pirates on the boards 35-30, and controlled the paint most of the game.
State looked dominating in the second half, and will look to carry their momentum from tonight's blowout win into tomorrow's semifinal contest.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Pack Adds Two D-Linemen
NC State has added two more players to their currently short recruiting list.
Two-star defensive tackle Carlos Gray out of Pinson Valley High School (Pinson, AL) committed to play for Tom O'Brien's Wolfpack shortly after taking his official visit to Raleigh. I'm guessing the show that State's defense put on in a 38-3 pounding of in-state rival Wake Forest helped make his decision a little easier. Gray played this past season at Oak Ridge Military Academy (NC).
The Pack also added defensive end McKay Frandsen, a junior college transfer from Snow College. Frandsen, like Gray, committed committed after his official visit on Saturday.
This brings the total number of commits for NC State football to ten, with seven of the commits on the defensive side of the ball.
Two-star defensive tackle Carlos Gray out of Pinson Valley High School (Pinson, AL) committed to play for Tom O'Brien's Wolfpack shortly after taking his official visit to Raleigh. I'm guessing the show that State's defense put on in a 38-3 pounding of in-state rival Wake Forest helped make his decision a little easier. Gray played this past season at Oak Ridge Military Academy (NC).
The Pack also added defensive end McKay Frandsen, a junior college transfer from Snow College. Frandsen, like Gray, committed committed after his official visit on Saturday.
This brings the total number of commits for NC State football to ten, with seven of the commits on the defensive side of the ball.
Monday, November 15, 2010
ACC Power Rankings After Week 11
Come on people, Hokies, Hokies, Hokies...
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies didn't officially clinch the Coastal Division on Saturday, but is there anyone out there who honestly believes that the Hokies won't win the division? I would be surprised if they lost one of their final two games.
(2) NC State Wolfpack
State's defense came alive against a weak Wake Forest team holding the Deacons to just three points on Saturday. The Pack are in the top 30 in the country in scoring offense and scoring defense, but they will have to be efficient on Saturday if they are going to go in to Chapel Hill and beat the Heels for the fourth straight year.
(3) Florida State Seminoles
A feel-good ending for kicker Dustin Hopkins as his 55-yard bomb won the game for the Seminoles, as they escaped Clemson's upset bid on Saturday. The Seminoles stayed alive (and technically in front) in the Atlantic Division race, but still need help if they're going to play in the ACC Championship Game on December 4th.
(4) Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes beat down Georgia Tech 35-10 on Saturday and are back in the top 25. Backup quarterback Stephen Morris lead the Hurricanes to a second straight win as he fills in for the injured Jacory Harris. Unfortunately, Miami will need Harris to have a chance against the Hokies on Saturday.
(5) Maryland Terrapins
Maryland continues to be right in the thick of the ACC Atlantic Division title race. With two games left- against Florida State and NC State, they'll need freshman quarterback Danny O'Brien to play smart football if they want to have a shot to make it to Charlotte.
(6) Clemson Tigers
You almost feel bad for Clemson, they out-played Florida State for most of Saturday night's game, only to lose on a 55 yard field goal as time expired. The Tigers are a good team, and although they won't be competing for an ACC championship this year, they should beat Wake Forest this week to become bowl eligible.
(7) North Carolina Tar Heels
The Tar Heels suffered a tough home loss to Virginia Tech on Saturday, as the offense never got going against the Hokies. They'll need to be solid this week if they are going to slow down Russell Wilson and NC State's air attack.
(8) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Without starting quarterback Joshua Nesbitt (possibly for the season) the Jackets seem to be just going through the motions as the season winds down. They'll need to beat either Duke or rival Georgia if they are going to become bowl eligible. Duke did a nice job against Navy's option, and I would expect them to give Georgia Tech some problems this Saturday.
(9) Boston College Eagles
Boston College was given a gift with their November schedule. After losing five in a row earlier in the season, the Eagles have bounced back and won three straight. I would expect them to become bowl eligible by beating Virginia at home this Saturday.
(10) Virginia Cavaliers
The Cavaliers' upset bid against Maryland fell short on Saturday when they were outscored by 21 points in the fourth quarter. The positive thing for Virginia? They are 25th in the nation in passing yards per game, that is near the top of the ACC.
(11) Duke Blue Devils
Duke's defense finally showed up on Saturday against Boston College- unfortunately the offense didn't. Duke's inability to score touchdowns in the red zone killed them on Saturday, had they not settled for three field goals they might have beaten the Eagles.
(12) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Wake absolutely laid an egg on Saturday against NC State. Not only did they get beat badly on both sides of the ball, but seemed to not be trying to win on a few plays. Multiple times on third and long the Demon Deacons chose to run the ball leading to a punt. Running backs Josh Harris and Josh Adams will continue to be the only bright spots for this team if they continue run he ball on third and long.
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies didn't officially clinch the Coastal Division on Saturday, but is there anyone out there who honestly believes that the Hokies won't win the division? I would be surprised if they lost one of their final two games.
(2) NC State Wolfpack
State's defense came alive against a weak Wake Forest team holding the Deacons to just three points on Saturday. The Pack are in the top 30 in the country in scoring offense and scoring defense, but they will have to be efficient on Saturday if they are going to go in to Chapel Hill and beat the Heels for the fourth straight year.
(3) Florida State Seminoles
A feel-good ending for kicker Dustin Hopkins as his 55-yard bomb won the game for the Seminoles, as they escaped Clemson's upset bid on Saturday. The Seminoles stayed alive (and technically in front) in the Atlantic Division race, but still need help if they're going to play in the ACC Championship Game on December 4th.
(4) Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes beat down Georgia Tech 35-10 on Saturday and are back in the top 25. Backup quarterback Stephen Morris lead the Hurricanes to a second straight win as he fills in for the injured Jacory Harris. Unfortunately, Miami will need Harris to have a chance against the Hokies on Saturday.
(5) Maryland Terrapins
Maryland continues to be right in the thick of the ACC Atlantic Division title race. With two games left- against Florida State and NC State, they'll need freshman quarterback Danny O'Brien to play smart football if they want to have a shot to make it to Charlotte.
(6) Clemson Tigers
You almost feel bad for Clemson, they out-played Florida State for most of Saturday night's game, only to lose on a 55 yard field goal as time expired. The Tigers are a good team, and although they won't be competing for an ACC championship this year, they should beat Wake Forest this week to become bowl eligible.
(7) North Carolina Tar Heels
The Tar Heels suffered a tough home loss to Virginia Tech on Saturday, as the offense never got going against the Hokies. They'll need to be solid this week if they are going to slow down Russell Wilson and NC State's air attack.
(8) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Without starting quarterback Joshua Nesbitt (possibly for the season) the Jackets seem to be just going through the motions as the season winds down. They'll need to beat either Duke or rival Georgia if they are going to become bowl eligible. Duke did a nice job against Navy's option, and I would expect them to give Georgia Tech some problems this Saturday.
(9) Boston College Eagles
Boston College was given a gift with their November schedule. After losing five in a row earlier in the season, the Eagles have bounced back and won three straight. I would expect them to become bowl eligible by beating Virginia at home this Saturday.
(10) Virginia Cavaliers
The Cavaliers' upset bid against Maryland fell short on Saturday when they were outscored by 21 points in the fourth quarter. The positive thing for Virginia? They are 25th in the nation in passing yards per game, that is near the top of the ACC.
(11) Duke Blue Devils
Duke's defense finally showed up on Saturday against Boston College- unfortunately the offense didn't. Duke's inability to score touchdowns in the red zone killed them on Saturday, had they not settled for three field goals they might have beaten the Eagles.
(12) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Wake absolutely laid an egg on Saturday against NC State. Not only did they get beat badly on both sides of the ball, but seemed to not be trying to win on a few plays. Multiple times on third and long the Demon Deacons chose to run the ball leading to a punt. Running backs Josh Harris and Josh Adams will continue to be the only bright spots for this team if they continue run he ball on third and long.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Freshman Leslie Ignites Pack
Highly regarded freshman C.J. Leslie lived up to his hype, at least for one game. The small forward scored 21 points off the bench in his debut at the RBC Center, leading the Pack (1-0) over Tennessee Tech 82-69.
Though he wasn't perfect from the floor like J.J. Hickson was in his first start at NC State back in 2007 (12-12 on field goals for 31 points), he excited an unusually quiet crowd of over 15,000 with two alley-oop slams and his six blocks.
The other two freshman, guards Lorenzo Brown and Ryan Harrow scored 14 and 16 points respectively. However, there was a scary moment tonight for the Pack in the second half. With around six minutes left in the game, Harrow had to be helped off the floor and was taken to the locker room. The initial thought seemed to be that he was suffering from dehydration. Luckily Harrow did return to the court a couple minutes later.
Pre-season Wooden award nominee Tracy Smith started off slowly, but lead the Pack with eight rebounds as he scored a tough ten points in 28 minutes of play for the Wolfpack.
The Packed looked a step slow to rebounds and loose balls- much like they did in their exhibition win over Pfeiffer. Those hustle-points kept the Golden Eagles in the game, and should be a point of emphasis in practice this week as the Pack prepares for the Charleston Classic this coming weekend. State will open the classic with a game aginst East Carolina on Friday (6pm).
Though he wasn't perfect from the floor like J.J. Hickson was in his first start at NC State back in 2007 (12-12 on field goals for 31 points), he excited an unusually quiet crowd of over 15,000 with two alley-oop slams and his six blocks.
The other two freshman, guards Lorenzo Brown and Ryan Harrow scored 14 and 16 points respectively. However, there was a scary moment tonight for the Pack in the second half. With around six minutes left in the game, Harrow had to be helped off the floor and was taken to the locker room. The initial thought seemed to be that he was suffering from dehydration. Luckily Harrow did return to the court a couple minutes later.
Pre-season Wooden award nominee Tracy Smith started off slowly, but lead the Pack with eight rebounds as he scored a tough ten points in 28 minutes of play for the Wolfpack.
The Packed looked a step slow to rebounds and loose balls- much like they did in their exhibition win over Pfeiffer. Those hustle-points kept the Golden Eagles in the game, and should be a point of emphasis in practice this week as the Pack prepares for the Charleston Classic this coming weekend. State will open the classic with a game aginst East Carolina on Friday (6pm).
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Smith, Freshmen, Lead Pack in Exhibition
Sidney Lowe's Wolfpack basketball team worked to rid itself of some of the off-season rust tonight in an exhibition game against Pfeiffer, and the highly regarded freshman class did not disappoint in a 111-73 victory.
Guards Ryan Harrow and Lorenzo Brown- who started tonight at shooting guard, and forward C.J. Leslie scored 17 points each for the Pack. The chemistry between the three was outstanding, as they wowed the 6400 plus fans who showed up to watch at historic Reynolds Coliseum. To go along with their 17 points, Harrow and Brown recorded eight and six assists respectively, and Leslie pulled down seven rebounds.
Wolfpack senior Tracy Smith also added 17 points, grabbed five rebounds, blocked three shots, and snagged four steals as he was able to play more of his natural power forward position, instead of center where he spent most of last season.
NC State never trailed as it overpowered an undersized opponent, and while they won by 38, they have a lot to improve on- specifically on defense and rebounding the basketball. These things will come in time as they get feel for for facing bigger teams.
The Pack will have their first regular season game Friday night against Tennessee Tech, 7pm at the RBC Center.
Guards Ryan Harrow and Lorenzo Brown- who started tonight at shooting guard, and forward C.J. Leslie scored 17 points each for the Pack. The chemistry between the three was outstanding, as they wowed the 6400 plus fans who showed up to watch at historic Reynolds Coliseum. To go along with their 17 points, Harrow and Brown recorded eight and six assists respectively, and Leslie pulled down seven rebounds.
Wolfpack senior Tracy Smith also added 17 points, grabbed five rebounds, blocked three shots, and snagged four steals as he was able to play more of his natural power forward position, instead of center where he spent most of last season.
NC State never trailed as it overpowered an undersized opponent, and while they won by 38, they have a lot to improve on- specifically on defense and rebounding the basketball. These things will come in time as they get feel for for facing bigger teams.
The Pack will have their first regular season game Friday night against Tennessee Tech, 7pm at the RBC Center.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
ACC Power Rankings After Week 10
Virginia Tech stays at number one in the power poll, as they were the only team at the top to win this week. With every contender in the Atlantic Division losing this week, it would be hard to argue that anyone can contend with the Hokies in the ACC Championship Game.
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
Virginia Tech continues to prove two things each week: One, that their loss to James Madison was a fluke, and two, that they are the best team in the ACC- by a mile. Even at their worst on Thursday night when they looked slow and unmotivated, they were able to take care of Georgia Tech.
(2) NC State Wolfpack
Honestly, NC State is only still at number two because of the debacle that was the Atlantic Division on Saturday. State failed to take advantage of numerous Clemson mistakes, and Russell Wilson continued his trend of throwing an interception in the red zone each game. Luckily for the Pack, they are right back where they started on Saturday- in the driver's seat for the Atlantic Division title. Though, I can see Tom O'Brien's ridiculous call to punt on fourth and one at the Clemson 40 yard line with a couple minutes to go and trailing by one to end up costing the Pack the Atlantic Division.
(3) Florida State Seminoles
The Seminoles never can escape their demons from the past- apparently the wide-right curse has carried over to the Jimbo Fisher era. Florida State choked away a perfect chance to take back control of the Atlantic Division on Saturday losing to a short-handed Carolina team at home hours after NC State dropped their game to Clemson.
(4) Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes bounced back from their loss to Virginia by beating Maryland at home without Jacory Harris. Freshman quarterback Stephen Morris lead Miami to a victory in his first collegiate start, helping the Hurricanes become bowl eligible and to keep pace with the first-place Virginia Tech Hokies.
(5) Clemson Tigers
Somehow Clemson managed to win on Saturday at home against NC State. They did not play well enough to deserve to win- but on the contrary neither did NC State. Tahj Boyd, the freshman quarterback who is expected to be the future of Clemson football, came in and lead the Tigers to their fifth win of the season, and their seventh straight win over NC State.
(6) Maryland Terrapins
Maryland lost its chance to take control of the Atlantic Division on Saturday when they lost to Miami on the road. They had a perfect chance to beat the Hurricanes with Jacory Harris out of the lineup for the Hurricanes, but they couldn't manage to pull out the win in South Beach. Luckily for the Terrapins (like NC State and Florida State), they are right back where they were Saturday morning, and still control their own destiny to win the division.
(7) North Carolina Tar Heels
The Tar Heels became bowl eligible on Saturday by upsetting Florida State on the road. No one was happier about this than NC State and Maryland, as Carolina's win merely kept those teams still alive. As for Carolina, they are bowl eligible and T.J. Yates is having his best season as a starter. Through all of the distractions, Butch Davis continues to keep his team focused and prepared.
(8) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Georgia Tech lost starting quarterback Joshua Nesbitt (possibly for the season) on Thursday night during their loss to Virginia Tech. The Jackets should still qualify for a bowl game this year, but 7-5 is probably the ceiling for their success this season. If they want to win their last three games their defense will need to step up, the offense has done its job as they are number one in the nation in rushing yards per game.
(9) Boston College Eagles
If Boston college wins two of their final three games they will qualify for a bowl game- but that is a tall task for a team that has been wildly inconsistent this season- but those games are against Duke, Virginia, and Syracuse so its not completely unlikely. They beat the ACC's worst team in Wake Forest on Saturday, in the process it was Wake's best defensive performance against a FBS team this season, but Boston College's defense won the game for the Eagles.
(10) Virginia Cavaliers
Virginia's loss to Duke all but solidified a losing season for Mike London's team in his first season. The Cavaliers would have to win all three of their remaining games to qualify for a bowl game (one of which being the Commonwealth Cup against Virginia Tech). But all in all the Mike London era has a tremendous amount of promise in Charlottesville, and the win against Miami last week will serve as his first of many monumental wins for the Cavaliers in the coming years.
(11) Duke Blue Devils
Duke has won two games against FBS opponents in a row for the first time in a long while. The Devils are starting to gel together as a team, which should carry over into next season. They are a young team who should get a better feel for the playing style of David Cutcliffe as time goes by. Expect them to give their final three opponents trouble- especially rival North Carolina in the season finale.
(12) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
The 2-7 Demon Deacons cannot buy a victory this season. The defense had its best showing against an FBS team this season, yet the offense fell flat against Boston College on Saturday. All coach Jim Grobe can do is scratch his head as watches his team continue to come up short each week.
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
Virginia Tech continues to prove two things each week: One, that their loss to James Madison was a fluke, and two, that they are the best team in the ACC- by a mile. Even at their worst on Thursday night when they looked slow and unmotivated, they were able to take care of Georgia Tech.
(2) NC State Wolfpack
Honestly, NC State is only still at number two because of the debacle that was the Atlantic Division on Saturday. State failed to take advantage of numerous Clemson mistakes, and Russell Wilson continued his trend of throwing an interception in the red zone each game. Luckily for the Pack, they are right back where they started on Saturday- in the driver's seat for the Atlantic Division title. Though, I can see Tom O'Brien's ridiculous call to punt on fourth and one at the Clemson 40 yard line with a couple minutes to go and trailing by one to end up costing the Pack the Atlantic Division.
(3) Florida State Seminoles
The Seminoles never can escape their demons from the past- apparently the wide-right curse has carried over to the Jimbo Fisher era. Florida State choked away a perfect chance to take back control of the Atlantic Division on Saturday losing to a short-handed Carolina team at home hours after NC State dropped their game to Clemson.
(4) Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes bounced back from their loss to Virginia by beating Maryland at home without Jacory Harris. Freshman quarterback Stephen Morris lead Miami to a victory in his first collegiate start, helping the Hurricanes become bowl eligible and to keep pace with the first-place Virginia Tech Hokies.
(5) Clemson Tigers
Somehow Clemson managed to win on Saturday at home against NC State. They did not play well enough to deserve to win- but on the contrary neither did NC State. Tahj Boyd, the freshman quarterback who is expected to be the future of Clemson football, came in and lead the Tigers to their fifth win of the season, and their seventh straight win over NC State.
(6) Maryland Terrapins
Maryland lost its chance to take control of the Atlantic Division on Saturday when they lost to Miami on the road. They had a perfect chance to beat the Hurricanes with Jacory Harris out of the lineup for the Hurricanes, but they couldn't manage to pull out the win in South Beach. Luckily for the Terrapins (like NC State and Florida State), they are right back where they were Saturday morning, and still control their own destiny to win the division.
(7) North Carolina Tar Heels
The Tar Heels became bowl eligible on Saturday by upsetting Florida State on the road. No one was happier about this than NC State and Maryland, as Carolina's win merely kept those teams still alive. As for Carolina, they are bowl eligible and T.J. Yates is having his best season as a starter. Through all of the distractions, Butch Davis continues to keep his team focused and prepared.
(8) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Georgia Tech lost starting quarterback Joshua Nesbitt (possibly for the season) on Thursday night during their loss to Virginia Tech. The Jackets should still qualify for a bowl game this year, but 7-5 is probably the ceiling for their success this season. If they want to win their last three games their defense will need to step up, the offense has done its job as they are number one in the nation in rushing yards per game.
(9) Boston College Eagles
If Boston college wins two of their final three games they will qualify for a bowl game- but that is a tall task for a team that has been wildly inconsistent this season- but those games are against Duke, Virginia, and Syracuse so its not completely unlikely. They beat the ACC's worst team in Wake Forest on Saturday, in the process it was Wake's best defensive performance against a FBS team this season, but Boston College's defense won the game for the Eagles.
(10) Virginia Cavaliers
Virginia's loss to Duke all but solidified a losing season for Mike London's team in his first season. The Cavaliers would have to win all three of their remaining games to qualify for a bowl game (one of which being the Commonwealth Cup against Virginia Tech). But all in all the Mike London era has a tremendous amount of promise in Charlottesville, and the win against Miami last week will serve as his first of many monumental wins for the Cavaliers in the coming years.
(11) Duke Blue Devils
Duke has won two games against FBS opponents in a row for the first time in a long while. The Devils are starting to gel together as a team, which should carry over into next season. They are a young team who should get a better feel for the playing style of David Cutcliffe as time goes by. Expect them to give their final three opponents trouble- especially rival North Carolina in the season finale.
(12) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
The 2-7 Demon Deacons cannot buy a victory this season. The defense had its best showing against an FBS team this season, yet the offense fell flat against Boston College on Saturday. All coach Jim Grobe can do is scratch his head as watches his team continue to come up short each week.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
ACC Power Rankings After Week 9
Florida State was knocked from the top of the Power Rankings by NC State last Thursday night in Raleigh. As a result, Virginia Tech takes over the top spot as they have a strangle hold on the Coastal Division.
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies earned the top spot in the rankings by default this week, as they had the week off and watched Florida State get upset by NC State. With the loss by Miami on Saturday, Virginia Tech has at least a two game lead in the loss column on every team in the Coastal Division. They have four games remaining (all against Coastal teams) and have a tough three game stretch ahead of them, but they remain the team to beat in the ACC and have room for error down the stretch.
(2) NC State Wolfpack
The Pack got the signature win they needed on Thursday night by beating Florida State. They now control their own destiny in the Atlantic Division, and have their toughest of the four games remaining this Saturday in Death Valley against a dejected Clemson squad. Russell Wilson looked like his old self against the Seminoles as he accounted for all four NC State touchdowns, included the winning touchdown pass on fourth and goal in the final moments of the game.
(3) Florida State Seminoles
The Seminoles suffered their first conference loss of the season Thursday night- despite playing a pretty solid game on both sides of the ball. The Seminoles still had a chance to win in the final minute, even with mistakes involving fumbles and dropped passes. The game was lost on an uncharacteristic mistake by Christian Ponder, who until that point had played a very good game- I'd expect the Noles to bounce back this week by winning big over North Carolina.
(4) Miami Hurricanes
I don't think anyone expected the Hurricanes to lose on Saturday to Virginia, and really, the game was lost early when Jacory Harris was knocked out of the game with a concussion and is questionable for next week's game against Maryland. In the process, the Canes might have lost their chance of winning the Coastal Division. If Randy Shannon was on the hot seat earlier this season- it is burning now.
(5) Maryland Terrapins
The Terrapins are for real. Seriously. Maryland is now bowl eligible at 6-2, and are tied with Florida State and NC State atop the Atlantic Division standings at 3-1. Maryland's offense exploded for 62 points against Wake Forest on Saturday that sent a convincing message to the conference about their firepower. Freshman quarterback Danny O'Bien tossed four touchdown passes, and he looks like he has a solid career ahead of him.
(6) Clemson Tigers
Like Miami, Clemson suffered a letdown on the road against a weaker divisional opponent. The Tigers third conference loss all but eliminates them from the Atlantic Division title race. Three of Clemson's final four opponents for the season are ranked in the AP top 25, and they'll have to win two more games to become bowl eligible, it will be a tough task for a team that lacks consistency.
(7) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Georgia Tech had a bye-week to prepare for their Thursday night match-up with Virginia Tech. A win would make the Jackets bowl eligible, but that will be a tough task in the next two weeks as they head to Virginia Tech then back home to play Miami. The Jackets lead the nation in rushing yards per game, but are next to last in passing. The lack of balance seems to be slowly catching up to quarterback Joshua Nesbitt- along with any glimpse of a Heisman.
(8) North Carolina Tar Heels
The Tar Heels beat William & Mary on Saturday, barely. They needed two late scores to beat the Tribe, as nine different players caught a pass from quarterback TJ Yates. Senior running back Johnny White continues to be the bright spot for Carolina, as he had the game winning touchdown late in the fourth quarter.
(9) Virginia Cavaliers
Mike London got his signature win for his first season as head coach of the Cavaliers, as his team held off Miami for a 24-19. Though 4-4, they will still need three more wins to reach a bowl game, and that will be a tough task. They will have another chance to get a win this Saturday when they travel to take on Duke. Senior quarterback Marc Verica is having the best year of his career, and Virginia seems to be gaining some momentum to carry into next season.
(10) Boston College Eagles
Coach Spaz couldn't hold back from smiling during his on-field post-game interview, and why not? He hasn't had a lot to smile about this season. His team is 103rd in rushing yards per game, and 100th in points per game, but following a win over Clemson on Saturday, the Eagles have just four games left- and all of them are winnable. They only have to win three of them to go bowling.
(11) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
What can I say about Wake Forest after an emotionless beatdown they were handed to by Maryland on Saturday at home. They have now lost six games in a row, and are giving up over 40 points per game. They have given up at least 24 points to every FBS team they have played this season, and the last four weeks of the season can't go by fast enough for the Demon Deacons.
(12) Duke Blue Devils
The Devils finally got a win against an FBS team on Saturday as quarterback Sean Renfree was very impressive against a good Navy team. Duke jumped out to a 31-7 lead in the second and ended up holding on for the 34-31 win. Had they not lost to Wake Forest in the second week of the season, they would be 11th on this list, but they'll need a conference win to move up.
(1) Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies earned the top spot in the rankings by default this week, as they had the week off and watched Florida State get upset by NC State. With the loss by Miami on Saturday, Virginia Tech has at least a two game lead in the loss column on every team in the Coastal Division. They have four games remaining (all against Coastal teams) and have a tough three game stretch ahead of them, but they remain the team to beat in the ACC and have room for error down the stretch.
(2) NC State Wolfpack
The Pack got the signature win they needed on Thursday night by beating Florida State. They now control their own destiny in the Atlantic Division, and have their toughest of the four games remaining this Saturday in Death Valley against a dejected Clemson squad. Russell Wilson looked like his old self against the Seminoles as he accounted for all four NC State touchdowns, included the winning touchdown pass on fourth and goal in the final moments of the game.
(3) Florida State Seminoles
The Seminoles suffered their first conference loss of the season Thursday night- despite playing a pretty solid game on both sides of the ball. The Seminoles still had a chance to win in the final minute, even with mistakes involving fumbles and dropped passes. The game was lost on an uncharacteristic mistake by Christian Ponder, who until that point had played a very good game- I'd expect the Noles to bounce back this week by winning big over North Carolina.
(4) Miami Hurricanes
I don't think anyone expected the Hurricanes to lose on Saturday to Virginia, and really, the game was lost early when Jacory Harris was knocked out of the game with a concussion and is questionable for next week's game against Maryland. In the process, the Canes might have lost their chance of winning the Coastal Division. If Randy Shannon was on the hot seat earlier this season- it is burning now.
(5) Maryland Terrapins
The Terrapins are for real. Seriously. Maryland is now bowl eligible at 6-2, and are tied with Florida State and NC State atop the Atlantic Division standings at 3-1. Maryland's offense exploded for 62 points against Wake Forest on Saturday that sent a convincing message to the conference about their firepower. Freshman quarterback Danny O'Bien tossed four touchdown passes, and he looks like he has a solid career ahead of him.
(6) Clemson Tigers
Like Miami, Clemson suffered a letdown on the road against a weaker divisional opponent. The Tigers third conference loss all but eliminates them from the Atlantic Division title race. Three of Clemson's final four opponents for the season are ranked in the AP top 25, and they'll have to win two more games to become bowl eligible, it will be a tough task for a team that lacks consistency.
(7) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Georgia Tech had a bye-week to prepare for their Thursday night match-up with Virginia Tech. A win would make the Jackets bowl eligible, but that will be a tough task in the next two weeks as they head to Virginia Tech then back home to play Miami. The Jackets lead the nation in rushing yards per game, but are next to last in passing. The lack of balance seems to be slowly catching up to quarterback Joshua Nesbitt- along with any glimpse of a Heisman.
(8) North Carolina Tar Heels
The Tar Heels beat William & Mary on Saturday, barely. They needed two late scores to beat the Tribe, as nine different players caught a pass from quarterback TJ Yates. Senior running back Johnny White continues to be the bright spot for Carolina, as he had the game winning touchdown late in the fourth quarter.
(9) Virginia Cavaliers
Mike London got his signature win for his first season as head coach of the Cavaliers, as his team held off Miami for a 24-19. Though 4-4, they will still need three more wins to reach a bowl game, and that will be a tough task. They will have another chance to get a win this Saturday when they travel to take on Duke. Senior quarterback Marc Verica is having the best year of his career, and Virginia seems to be gaining some momentum to carry into next season.
(10) Boston College Eagles
Coach Spaz couldn't hold back from smiling during his on-field post-game interview, and why not? He hasn't had a lot to smile about this season. His team is 103rd in rushing yards per game, and 100th in points per game, but following a win over Clemson on Saturday, the Eagles have just four games left- and all of them are winnable. They only have to win three of them to go bowling.
(11) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
What can I say about Wake Forest after an emotionless beatdown they were handed to by Maryland on Saturday at home. They have now lost six games in a row, and are giving up over 40 points per game. They have given up at least 24 points to every FBS team they have played this season, and the last four weeks of the season can't go by fast enough for the Demon Deacons.
(12) Duke Blue Devils
The Devils finally got a win against an FBS team on Saturday as quarterback Sean Renfree was very impressive against a good Navy team. Duke jumped out to a 31-7 lead in the second and ended up holding on for the 34-31 win. Had they not lost to Wake Forest in the second week of the season, they would be 11th on this list, but they'll need a conference win to move up.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
ACC Power Rankings After Week 8
Not too much change in the Power Rankings this week as mostly the expected happened in the ACC this week. Game of the week is Thursday night's Florida State at NC State.
1. Florida State Seminoles
The 'Noles will remain at the top of the power poll until someone knocks them off. They’ve played very well ever since their loss at Oklahoma, and control their own destiny to the ACC title game. They can just about clinch the Atlantic Division with a win Thursday Night at NC State.
2. Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies gave Duke no chance of pulling the upset in Blacksburg. At 4-0 in the conference and ranked 25th in the nation, the Hokies would be a top-ten team had the not lost to JMU. Still, they’re in the driver’s seat to win the Coastal Division.
3. Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes pounced on a depleted UNC secondary, and their defense was locked in on TJ Yates all night. The ‘Canes dominated the second half, outscoring the Tar Heels 20-0. They continue to look good, and Jacory Harris continues to learn and improve to better this offense.
4. NC State Wolfpack
The Pack badly needed a bye-week, and they used it to rest up as coach Tom O’Brien gave the guys a few days off before they got back to work preparing for their biggest game of the year- against Florida State at home this Thursday night. A win against the Seminoles and the Pack would control their own destiny to an Atlantic title.
5. Clemson Tigers
The Tigers have now won two straight conference games (their first two conference wins of the year), and if they were to win out in their final four conference games, they would win the Atlantic Division. Unfortunately, they host NC State and then head to Florida State in back to back weeks.
6. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
The bad news for Georgia Tech after their 14 point loss at Clemson is that Joshua Nesbitt was held to just two (2) yards rushing, and teams seem to be figuring out how to stop their triple option. The good news is, that both conference losses for the Jackets were against Atlantic Division teams, and they are still (technically) in the race for the Coastal Division title.
7. North Carolina Tar Heels
The lack of depth on UNC’s roster finally caught up to them, if only for one game as they lost to Miami. If the injuries to the defensive secondary are serious, then the absence of Stuckey and Brown due to suspension will be the demise of this Tar Heels team.
8. Maryland Terrapins
Just throwing this out there, but the Terps do have five wins- and with five games remaining (of which one is a home game against Wake Forest, and another is at Virginia), the Fridge should bring this team to a bowl, something most did not expect entering the year. Heck, if they beat Wake this Saturday, they’ll be 3-1 in conference play, they could make some noise here.
9. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Wake needed their bye week, as they’ve lost five in a row. They better hope that Duke doesn’t win a game or they will be the worst team in North Carolina. They’ll have a chance to win this week, though, as they host Boston College.
10. Boston College Eagles
The Eagles started out 2-0, and it has been all downhill from there- and unfortunately for them, it will continue to be. I’d be surprised if they beat a confident Clemson team this Saturday, but they do have enough winnable games remaining to make a bowl game if they cut back on the turnovers.
11. Virginia Cavaliers
Usually teams don’t like to play non-conference games in the thick of the ACC schedule, but Virginia needed an easier game this week. They beat one of the worst FBS teams in the country, but it was close for a while before Virginia finally pulled away. Mike London’s team has five games left to find something to build on heading into next season.
12. Duke Blue Devils
The Duke basketball team might just beat a Div. 1A (FBS) team before the Duke Football team does- that’s pretty impressive considering the football team had a two month head start. After six straight losses, all that’s left for the Blue Devils is a chance to beat rival UNC in the last game of the season.
1. Florida State Seminoles
The 'Noles will remain at the top of the power poll until someone knocks them off. They’ve played very well ever since their loss at Oklahoma, and control their own destiny to the ACC title game. They can just about clinch the Atlantic Division with a win Thursday Night at NC State.
2. Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies gave Duke no chance of pulling the upset in Blacksburg. At 4-0 in the conference and ranked 25th in the nation, the Hokies would be a top-ten team had the not lost to JMU. Still, they’re in the driver’s seat to win the Coastal Division.
3. Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes pounced on a depleted UNC secondary, and their defense was locked in on TJ Yates all night. The ‘Canes dominated the second half, outscoring the Tar Heels 20-0. They continue to look good, and Jacory Harris continues to learn and improve to better this offense.
4. NC State Wolfpack
The Pack badly needed a bye-week, and they used it to rest up as coach Tom O’Brien gave the guys a few days off before they got back to work preparing for their biggest game of the year- against Florida State at home this Thursday night. A win against the Seminoles and the Pack would control their own destiny to an Atlantic title.
5. Clemson Tigers
The Tigers have now won two straight conference games (their first two conference wins of the year), and if they were to win out in their final four conference games, they would win the Atlantic Division. Unfortunately, they host NC State and then head to Florida State in back to back weeks.
6. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
The bad news for Georgia Tech after their 14 point loss at Clemson is that Joshua Nesbitt was held to just two (2) yards rushing, and teams seem to be figuring out how to stop their triple option. The good news is, that both conference losses for the Jackets were against Atlantic Division teams, and they are still (technically) in the race for the Coastal Division title.
7. North Carolina Tar Heels
The lack of depth on UNC’s roster finally caught up to them, if only for one game as they lost to Miami. If the injuries to the defensive secondary are serious, then the absence of Stuckey and Brown due to suspension will be the demise of this Tar Heels team.
8. Maryland Terrapins
Just throwing this out there, but the Terps do have five wins- and with five games remaining (of which one is a home game against Wake Forest, and another is at Virginia), the Fridge should bring this team to a bowl, something most did not expect entering the year. Heck, if they beat Wake this Saturday, they’ll be 3-1 in conference play, they could make some noise here.
9. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Wake needed their bye week, as they’ve lost five in a row. They better hope that Duke doesn’t win a game or they will be the worst team in North Carolina. They’ll have a chance to win this week, though, as they host Boston College.
10. Boston College Eagles
The Eagles started out 2-0, and it has been all downhill from there- and unfortunately for them, it will continue to be. I’d be surprised if they beat a confident Clemson team this Saturday, but they do have enough winnable games remaining to make a bowl game if they cut back on the turnovers.
11. Virginia Cavaliers
Usually teams don’t like to play non-conference games in the thick of the ACC schedule, but Virginia needed an easier game this week. They beat one of the worst FBS teams in the country, but it was close for a while before Virginia finally pulled away. Mike London’s team has five games left to find something to build on heading into next season.
12. Duke Blue Devils
The Duke basketball team might just beat a Div. 1A (FBS) team before the Duke Football team does- that’s pretty impressive considering the football team had a two month head start. After six straight losses, all that’s left for the Blue Devils is a chance to beat rival UNC in the last game of the season.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
ACC Power Rankings After Week 7
1. Florida State Seminoles
The 'Noles keep rolling, taking down Atlantic Division rival Boston College. They've won five in a row since their loss at Oklahoma. Florida State's bye week comes at a unfortunate time, as the team has all of the momentum in the world right now. Their game at NC State next Thursday could decide the winner of the Atlantic Division.
2. Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies continue to roll since their shocking 0-2 start. There's no reason why they shouldn't win the next four games leading up to their November 20 showdown at Miami. The win over Central Michigan did nothing but continue to show that the Hokies are focused and have put the James Madison loss behind them.
3. Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes looked like they were hungover from their beat-down delivered by rival Florida State last week. They only beat Duke by 15, and looked a step slow. Luckily for them, they still control their own destiny to win the Coastal Division.
4. NC State Wolfpack
The Pack played their worst game of the season on Saturday at East Carolina. They looked bad in all three phases of the game. Star quarterback Russell Wilson tossed three picks to only one touchdown, special teams missed a field goal and had blown coverage on kickoffs, and the defense couldn't stop the same screen pass play that the Pirates ran over and over on them. Luckily for the Pack, at their worst they still had a chance to win in regulation, this loss doesn't affect their goal of an ACC title, and they have a bye week to regroup and prepare for their showdown with Florida State.
5. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
No surprise on Saturday as the Ramblin' Wreck took down Middle Tennessee State 42-14. Tech has won three in a row, and have a good road test waiting for them on Saturday at Clemson.
6. North Carolina Tar Heels
The rotation of players being eligible and ineligible didn't seem to effect the Tar Heels on Saturday, as they won their fourth game is a row by beating Virginia on the road, breaking the "Hooville Curse" the Heels have had in Charlottesville over the years. They might actually be a contender now, but they will have their hands full at Miami this week.
7. Clemson Tigers
The Tigers snapped their three game losing streak by beating Maryland on Saturday, a team they have struggled to beat in recent history. They now are back at .500 and can start working toward a bowl birth.
8. Maryland Terrapins
The Terps lost to Clemson on Saturday, a team they usually play well against. After their 4-1, it could be a very long second half of the season in College Park
9. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Wake underwent the inevitable on Saturday as Virginia Tech layed the lumber on the Demon Deacons. Wake is now 2-5 on the season, and that ACC Championship they had back in 2006 seems like it will be a one time deal, as they are clearly in rebuilding mode.
10. Boston College Eagles
The Eagles surprisingly played Florida State close on Saturday, only losing by 5. They have a winnable game against Maryland at home this Saturday, but until they improve from 103rd in rushing and 104th in points per game nationally, they will continue to lose ballgames in the ACC.
11. Virginia Cavaliers
Virginia lost their third straight game on Saturday, getting completely man-handled by North Carolina on Saturday. Luckily for them they get to play Eastern Michigan this Saturday at home, which will likely be their third win of the season.
12. Duke Blue Devils
Duke stayed with Miami for most of the game Saturday, but fell short for the fifth straight week. The Devils need something, anything to get them going so they have a shot at pulling of a miraculous upset of Virginia Tech this Saturday in Blacksburg. The good news is, Friday officially marked the start of college basketball season with Midnight Madness.
The 'Noles keep rolling, taking down Atlantic Division rival Boston College. They've won five in a row since their loss at Oklahoma. Florida State's bye week comes at a unfortunate time, as the team has all of the momentum in the world right now. Their game at NC State next Thursday could decide the winner of the Atlantic Division.
2. Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies continue to roll since their shocking 0-2 start. There's no reason why they shouldn't win the next four games leading up to their November 20 showdown at Miami. The win over Central Michigan did nothing but continue to show that the Hokies are focused and have put the James Madison loss behind them.
3. Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes looked like they were hungover from their beat-down delivered by rival Florida State last week. They only beat Duke by 15, and looked a step slow. Luckily for them, they still control their own destiny to win the Coastal Division.
4. NC State Wolfpack
The Pack played their worst game of the season on Saturday at East Carolina. They looked bad in all three phases of the game. Star quarterback Russell Wilson tossed three picks to only one touchdown, special teams missed a field goal and had blown coverage on kickoffs, and the defense couldn't stop the same screen pass play that the Pirates ran over and over on them. Luckily for the Pack, at their worst they still had a chance to win in regulation, this loss doesn't affect their goal of an ACC title, and they have a bye week to regroup and prepare for their showdown with Florida State.
5. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
No surprise on Saturday as the Ramblin' Wreck took down Middle Tennessee State 42-14. Tech has won three in a row, and have a good road test waiting for them on Saturday at Clemson.
6. North Carolina Tar Heels
The rotation of players being eligible and ineligible didn't seem to effect the Tar Heels on Saturday, as they won their fourth game is a row by beating Virginia on the road, breaking the "Hooville Curse" the Heels have had in Charlottesville over the years. They might actually be a contender now, but they will have their hands full at Miami this week.
7. Clemson Tigers
The Tigers snapped their three game losing streak by beating Maryland on Saturday, a team they have struggled to beat in recent history. They now are back at .500 and can start working toward a bowl birth.
8. Maryland Terrapins
The Terps lost to Clemson on Saturday, a team they usually play well against. After their 4-1, it could be a very long second half of the season in College Park
9. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Wake underwent the inevitable on Saturday as Virginia Tech layed the lumber on the Demon Deacons. Wake is now 2-5 on the season, and that ACC Championship they had back in 2006 seems like it will be a one time deal, as they are clearly in rebuilding mode.
10. Boston College Eagles
The Eagles surprisingly played Florida State close on Saturday, only losing by 5. They have a winnable game against Maryland at home this Saturday, but until they improve from 103rd in rushing and 104th in points per game nationally, they will continue to lose ballgames in the ACC.
11. Virginia Cavaliers
Virginia lost their third straight game on Saturday, getting completely man-handled by North Carolina on Saturday. Luckily for them they get to play Eastern Michigan this Saturday at home, which will likely be their third win of the season.
12. Duke Blue Devils
Duke stayed with Miami for most of the game Saturday, but fell short for the fifth straight week. The Devils need something, anything to get them going so they have a shot at pulling of a miraculous upset of Virginia Tech this Saturday in Blacksburg. The good news is, Friday officially marked the start of college basketball season with Midnight Madness.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
ACC Power Rankings After Week 6
Florida State's convincing win over previous ACC number one Miami earns them the top spot in this week's ACC Power Rankings.
1. Florida State Seminoles
The beat down the 'Noles delivered to rival Miami on Saturday sent a strong message to the rest of the conference as to who was the team to beat in the Atlantic Division. Now with their toughest conference game behind them, Florida State is in a great position to not only win the ACC, but climb their way through the national rankings as the season progresses.
2. Miami Hurricanes
Ouch! Miami was absolutely embarrassed by rival Florida State, luckily for them the Coastal Division title still has to go through them as this was their first conference loss.
3. Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies continue to roll since their shocking 0-2 start. There's no reason why they shouldn't win the next four games leading up to their November 20 showdown at Miami. The win over Central Michigan did nothing but continue to show that the Hokies are focused and have put the James Madison loss behind them.
4. NC State Wolfpack
The Pack bounced back nicely from their loss to Virginia Tech by demolishing Atlantic Division foe Boston College on Saturday. Russell Wilson threw an uncharacteristic two interceptions again- that's six in the last three conference games, but he managed to throw three touchdown passes for the fourth straight week, and the Pack continued to stay hot. If State continues to play at a high level, then their nationally televised game against Florida State on October 28 could determine the winner of the Atlantic Division.
5. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
It certainly wasn't pretty, but Georgia Tech did improve to 3-1 in conference play by beating Virginia on Saturday. The Jackets should beat Middle Tennessee State this weekend, then head to Death Valley to take on Clemson the following weekend where we'll learn if this team has a chance at repeating as ACC champions.
6. North Carolina Tar Heels
Love them or hate them, it is hard not to admire what the Tar Heels are doing on the field this season. Running back Johnny White had a masterful day against Clemson, and three straight wins show the Tar Heels are starting to get it together no matter who they throw out on the field. Without 15 players on Saturday and all of the chaos surrounding the program, they still got it done.
7. Clemson Tigers
Three straight losses have sent Coach Dabo's Tigers from a team that looked like it would win the Atlantic to searching the schedule for four possible wins just to steal a bowl game to end the season. Kyle Parker may be regretting passing up playing professional baseball for the Rockies for this.
8. Maryland Terrapins
The Terps sat on their bye week and watched three Atlantic Division teams receive losses. Maryland is quietly 4-1, and had they won at West Virginia they'd be receiving some serious press. They have a great opportunity to really send a message to the Atlantic Division in the next two weeks. They'll play at Clemson, a team they usually play really well against and then travel to take on Boston College in a winnable game.
9. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
It is hard to imagine that the Demon Deacons would lose to Navy a week after seeing the option offense against Georgia Tech. And while the Wake defense kept both games very close, they lost both of them. it looks like their four game losing streak is going to swell to five when they take on Virginia Tech at Lane Stadium this Saturday.
10. Boston College Eagles
The Eagles failed to beat former coach Tom O'Brien for the first time since he left Boston College and headed to NC State. The Pack embarrassed the Eagles and chased quarterback Dave Shinskie out of the game early on Saturday. Often the team ranked 99th in points per game fails to win at a high rate- such is the case for the Eagles this season. First year coach Frank Spaziani is looking at a long final seven games of the season.
11. Virginia Cavaliers
No doubt about it, Mike London was a great choice to lead Virginia, but instant results just don't happen for teams who need rebuilding. This team is heading in the right direction, but will have to pull multiple upsets to get to a bowl game.
12. Duke Blue Devils
Where to begin for the 1-4 Blue Devils? Maybe they've lost four in a row because their offense is just too young, but that's not the reason their struggling. Something has got to give for this defense, they are giving up nearly 40 points per game (and only scoring 27 points per game) and are 113th in the country in that category. Luckily, a bye week keeps the losing streak from extending.
1. Florida State Seminoles
The beat down the 'Noles delivered to rival Miami on Saturday sent a strong message to the rest of the conference as to who was the team to beat in the Atlantic Division. Now with their toughest conference game behind them, Florida State is in a great position to not only win the ACC, but climb their way through the national rankings as the season progresses.
2. Miami Hurricanes
Ouch! Miami was absolutely embarrassed by rival Florida State, luckily for them the Coastal Division title still has to go through them as this was their first conference loss.
3. Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies continue to roll since their shocking 0-2 start. There's no reason why they shouldn't win the next four games leading up to their November 20 showdown at Miami. The win over Central Michigan did nothing but continue to show that the Hokies are focused and have put the James Madison loss behind them.
4. NC State Wolfpack
The Pack bounced back nicely from their loss to Virginia Tech by demolishing Atlantic Division foe Boston College on Saturday. Russell Wilson threw an uncharacteristic two interceptions again- that's six in the last three conference games, but he managed to throw three touchdown passes for the fourth straight week, and the Pack continued to stay hot. If State continues to play at a high level, then their nationally televised game against Florida State on October 28 could determine the winner of the Atlantic Division.
5. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
It certainly wasn't pretty, but Georgia Tech did improve to 3-1 in conference play by beating Virginia on Saturday. The Jackets should beat Middle Tennessee State this weekend, then head to Death Valley to take on Clemson the following weekend where we'll learn if this team has a chance at repeating as ACC champions.
6. North Carolina Tar Heels
Love them or hate them, it is hard not to admire what the Tar Heels are doing on the field this season. Running back Johnny White had a masterful day against Clemson, and three straight wins show the Tar Heels are starting to get it together no matter who they throw out on the field. Without 15 players on Saturday and all of the chaos surrounding the program, they still got it done.
7. Clemson Tigers
Three straight losses have sent Coach Dabo's Tigers from a team that looked like it would win the Atlantic to searching the schedule for four possible wins just to steal a bowl game to end the season. Kyle Parker may be regretting passing up playing professional baseball for the Rockies for this.
8. Maryland Terrapins
The Terps sat on their bye week and watched three Atlantic Division teams receive losses. Maryland is quietly 4-1, and had they won at West Virginia they'd be receiving some serious press. They have a great opportunity to really send a message to the Atlantic Division in the next two weeks. They'll play at Clemson, a team they usually play really well against and then travel to take on Boston College in a winnable game.
9. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
It is hard to imagine that the Demon Deacons would lose to Navy a week after seeing the option offense against Georgia Tech. And while the Wake defense kept both games very close, they lost both of them. it looks like their four game losing streak is going to swell to five when they take on Virginia Tech at Lane Stadium this Saturday.
10. Boston College Eagles
The Eagles failed to beat former coach Tom O'Brien for the first time since he left Boston College and headed to NC State. The Pack embarrassed the Eagles and chased quarterback Dave Shinskie out of the game early on Saturday. Often the team ranked 99th in points per game fails to win at a high rate- such is the case for the Eagles this season. First year coach Frank Spaziani is looking at a long final seven games of the season.
11. Virginia Cavaliers
No doubt about it, Mike London was a great choice to lead Virginia, but instant results just don't happen for teams who need rebuilding. This team is heading in the right direction, but will have to pull multiple upsets to get to a bowl game.
12. Duke Blue Devils
Where to begin for the 1-4 Blue Devils? Maybe they've lost four in a row because their offense is just too young, but that's not the reason their struggling. Something has got to give for this defense, they are giving up nearly 40 points per game (and only scoring 27 points per game) and are 113th in the country in that category. Luckily, a bye week keeps the losing streak from extending.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
ACC Power Rankings After Week 5
1. Miami (3-1, 1-0)
The 'Canes continue to show that they are the best team in the conference, beating Clemson on the road. The Coastal Division is theirs to lose.
2. Florida State (4-0, 2-0)
The only team in the Atlantic Division with two conference wins, the Seminoles have rebounded nicely since their loss at Oklahoma. Jimbo has his team back in the top 25, and we will learn a lot about them after they play at Miami this week.
3. Clemson (2-2, 0-1)
The Tigers could have really put themselves in a good spot to win the Atlantic Division had they beaten Miami at home Saturday, now they may need help to win the division. After close losses at Auburn in overtime, and this week to Miami, the Tigers may be the best two-loss team in the country.
4. Virginia Tech (3-2, 2-0)
After a nightmare of a start to the season, Virginia Tech is back as an ACC contender. Tyrod and the offense woke up in their win against NC State this weekend, and if they continue to play well there's no reason they shouldn't roll into Miami with an undefeated conference record November 20.
5. NC State (4-1, 1-1)
Tom O-Brien has the Pack playing above expectations, and the talent and preparation is there, they just don't know how to close teams out in the second half yet (as evident in blowing a 17-0 lead to the Hokies). The Pack can still win the Atlantic Division- barring a collapse in response to Saturday's loss to Virginia Tech. We will see if the Pack, and Russell Wilson is for real when the Pack take on Boston College this week.
6. Georgia Tech (3-2, 2-1)
After an embarrassing loss to Kansas, and getting walloped by NC State at home, Tech bounced back by beating Wake Forest in a grudge match on the road. They're still under-achieving, but have the talent to make themselves an outside contender in the Coastal Division.
7. Maryland (4-1, 1-0)
When the season started, many doubted the Terrapins could reach a bowl game, now they have enough winnable games remaining on the schedule to receive a bid- thus saving the Fridge's job in the process.
8. North Carolina (2-2, 0-1)
Hard not to be impress with how the Heels have handled business on the field through all of the distractions surrounding the program. While losing coach Butch Davis at the end of the season may be imminent, the Heels could still manage a bowl game out of what has been a program-changing season for the worst.
9. Virginia (2-2, 0-1)
Mike London will make this program relevant, but not this season. He has a freshman quarterback in Mike Verica who should see much success in his career, but for now he needs experience and time to grow.
10. Wake Forest (2-3, 1-2)
Wake would need to pull multiple upsets to reach a bowl game this season. Freshman quarterback Tanner Price needs time to ripen, as he does, the offense will improve- but I don't see it happening this season.
11. Boston College (2-2, 0-1)
Plain and simple, averaging nine points per game won't lead to a successful season, and life won't get easier in the next two weeks with road games against NC State and Florida State.
12. Duke (1-4, 0-2)
The post Thaddeus Lewis era has been a struggle for the Blue Devils. The defense hasn't been good, either. Their best performance of the year came this past weekend against Maryland, but the offense could not get it going. Expect things to be ugly in Durham this week as Duke hosts Miami.
The 'Canes continue to show that they are the best team in the conference, beating Clemson on the road. The Coastal Division is theirs to lose.
2. Florida State (4-0, 2-0)
The only team in the Atlantic Division with two conference wins, the Seminoles have rebounded nicely since their loss at Oklahoma. Jimbo has his team back in the top 25, and we will learn a lot about them after they play at Miami this week.
3. Clemson (2-2, 0-1)
The Tigers could have really put themselves in a good spot to win the Atlantic Division had they beaten Miami at home Saturday, now they may need help to win the division. After close losses at Auburn in overtime, and this week to Miami, the Tigers may be the best two-loss team in the country.
4. Virginia Tech (3-2, 2-0)
After a nightmare of a start to the season, Virginia Tech is back as an ACC contender. Tyrod and the offense woke up in their win against NC State this weekend, and if they continue to play well there's no reason they shouldn't roll into Miami with an undefeated conference record November 20.
5. NC State (4-1, 1-1)
Tom O-Brien has the Pack playing above expectations, and the talent and preparation is there, they just don't know how to close teams out in the second half yet (as evident in blowing a 17-0 lead to the Hokies). The Pack can still win the Atlantic Division- barring a collapse in response to Saturday's loss to Virginia Tech. We will see if the Pack, and Russell Wilson is for real when the Pack take on Boston College this week.
6. Georgia Tech (3-2, 2-1)
After an embarrassing loss to Kansas, and getting walloped by NC State at home, Tech bounced back by beating Wake Forest in a grudge match on the road. They're still under-achieving, but have the talent to make themselves an outside contender in the Coastal Division.
7. Maryland (4-1, 1-0)
When the season started, many doubted the Terrapins could reach a bowl game, now they have enough winnable games remaining on the schedule to receive a bid- thus saving the Fridge's job in the process.
8. North Carolina (2-2, 0-1)
Hard not to be impress with how the Heels have handled business on the field through all of the distractions surrounding the program. While losing coach Butch Davis at the end of the season may be imminent, the Heels could still manage a bowl game out of what has been a program-changing season for the worst.
9. Virginia (2-2, 0-1)
Mike London will make this program relevant, but not this season. He has a freshman quarterback in Mike Verica who should see much success in his career, but for now he needs experience and time to grow.
10. Wake Forest (2-3, 1-2)
Wake would need to pull multiple upsets to reach a bowl game this season. Freshman quarterback Tanner Price needs time to ripen, as he does, the offense will improve- but I don't see it happening this season.
11. Boston College (2-2, 0-1)
Plain and simple, averaging nine points per game won't lead to a successful season, and life won't get easier in the next two weeks with road games against NC State and Florida State.
12. Duke (1-4, 0-2)
The post Thaddeus Lewis era has been a struggle for the Blue Devils. The defense hasn't been good, either. Their best performance of the year came this past weekend against Maryland, but the offense could not get it going. Expect things to be ugly in Durham this week as Duke hosts Miami.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
NCAA Football Week 1 Tailgate: Day 4
A Comeback Story
Much has been made of Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich's return to the gridiron after a bout with cancer, and deservedly so. But there is another ACC linebacker who is very thankful to be back on the field (and alive). Here's a great piece by Raycom Sports on NC State linebacker Nate Irving.
Much has been made of Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich's return to the gridiron after a bout with cancer, and deservedly so. But there is another ACC linebacker who is very thankful to be back on the field (and alive). Here's a great piece by Raycom Sports on NC State linebacker Nate Irving.
Monday, August 30, 2010
NCAA Football Week 1 Tailgate: Day 3
Give O'Brien More Time
N.C. State fans are all tired of being told to “be patient” and to give our football program “time to improve.” If you have truly had it with hearing these sayings, hear this out, one last time.
In his first three seasons in Raleigh, Tom O’Brien has a 16-21 record in three losing seasons. The Pack has made it to one bowl game, a loss to Rutgers in the 2008 Papajohns.com Bowl. His 9-15 record against the Atlantic Coast Conference shows very little to be proud of- with the exception of a 3-0 record against rival North Carolina. With the inclusion of Chuck Amato’s final season, State is one of only six BCS conference schools to post four straight losing seasons (Duke is the only other ACC school on the list).
One might ask, where is the bright side? It lies within O’Brien’s experience at Boston College. In his first three seasons in Chestnut Hill, the Eagles went 16-18 with one bowl appearance, a loss in the 1999 Insight Bowl. He followed those first three seasons by going 59-27, leading the Eagles to seven bowl games, and an ACC Atlantic Division title.
Give him more time, if only for just one more season. It is apparent from the progress made over the summer that his players have now started to buy into his system. The Pack will sport a potent offense being known as “the perfect storm,” led by All-ACC quarterback Russell Wilson and an experienced receiving group, a defense that returns arguably the scariest linebacker in the ACC in Nate Irving after a year out from injuries, and a secondary that if nothing else, now has a year of experience under its belt. Not to mention a new linebackers coach, who was the associate head coach and defensive coordinator at Georgia Tech and Notre Dame, John Tenuta.
Last but not least, there is a new Athletic Director in Raleigh in Debbie Yow who has vowed to not accept mediocrity anymore. Her concerns are your concerns, no more blind hires following coaches who were around two and three seasons too long. If O’Brien and Yow can stay on the same page, there should be an improvement in Pack football coming soon.
Friday, August 27, 2010
NCAA Football Week 1 Tailgate: Day 2
2. New Coaches Start Their Tenures
- Jimbo Fisher, Florida State. Anyone else think Bowden was forced out too early? Wow, big shoes to fill for the former "coach-in-waiting." Luckily for him, he starts off against Samford.
- Brian Kelly, Notre Dame. The Irish are a 10 point favorite over Purdue in Week 1, I see it being closer than that in Kelly's debut, but expect him to have less wins than his replacement back in Cincinnati...
- Butch Jones, Cincinnati. What a tough way to start off with the Bearcats for Butch Jones in his first game after leaving Central Michigan. They'll travel to Fresno to take on the Bulldogs. But I like the Bearcats to win a tight one on the west coast.
- Lane Kiffin, Southern Cal. Kiffin's Trojans start out ranked 14th... not that it matters this season- at least they get a free trip to Hawaii in week one.
- Tommy Tuberville, Texas Tech. Texas Tech should be able to handle SMU at home, though I feel Ruffin McNeill should be coaching the Red Raiders, speaking of Ruffin McNeill...
- Ruffin McNeill, East Carolina. McNeill's first game with the Pirates will be a tough test at home against Tulsa. McNeill, an ECU alum, is a great fit for the Pirates and a steal of a coach who should be in charge in Lubbock, but he'll need time to come in and implement his spread offense in Greenville.
- Skip Holtz, Southern Florida. The day came that Pirates fans had to expect would come sooner rather than later. On January 14th, Holtz jumped ship for a BCS conference team. Not worried about Holtz's new team in week one, though, as the Bulls open up against Stony Brook.
- Charlie Strong, Louisville. If Charlie Strong wants to earn points quickly with Cardinals fans all he needs to do is beat Kentucky in week one at home, who has a new coach of their own...
- Joker Phillips, Kentucky. Hired as the coach-in-waiting a few years ago, Phillips leads his team into Louisville to take on the rival Cardinals in his first game as the head coach.
- Derek Dooley, Tennessee. Not quite who the Volunteers were expecting would lead them into their week one game against in-state foe Tennessee-Martin. I expect a blowout in Knoxville as the Dooley era opens strong against the Skyhawks.
- Kansas: Turner Gill in, Mark Mangino out. Week 1: Home against North Dakota State.
- Vanderbilt: Robbie Caldwell in, Bobby Johnson out. Week 1: Home against Northwestern.
- Virginia: Mike London in, Al Groh out. Week 1: Home against Richmond.
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