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.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
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.
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