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.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
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.
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