College Preview- ACC

We'll just start alphabetically with the division 1 conferences, which leads me to the ACC. I have to admit, the ACC has been a disappointment over the last few years since they acquired BC, V Tech and Miami from the Big East. I seem to recall when those schools transferred over that many, including myself, thought the ACC would overtake the other conferences as the dominant conference in the land...needless to say, it hasn't happened. What's happened to Miami and FSU? They crashed hard! Is it recruiting? Poor coaching? Does Bowden need to call it a day? Is it due to the Gators recent dominance?

Atlantic Division:

• Clemson- This is supposed to be the year they finally win the conference. I had predicted them to win it last year but was apparently a year pre-mature. One of the most dynamic backfields in the country with Davis and Spiller splitting carries. Davis is the more downhill runner while Spiller is the more dynamic of the two. Harper has turned into a nice qb.
• Wake Forest- Scrappy team that plays tough D. Minimal mistakes. Riley Skinner is a solid qb. This team is the result of great coaching.
• Florida St.- They always have great athletes but that doesn't always transfer into great football players.
• Maryland- Ralph Friedgen hasn't made any waves in awhile (besides the buffet line). This team has been a yawner the last several years. Very average.
• Boston College- Won this division a year ago with Matt Ryan. They've lost a lot of talent. Word is, the cupboards bare.
• North Carolina St.- Still the bottom of the heap but getting better. O'Brien will right the ship.

Coastal Division

• Virginia Tech- Consistent powerhouse. Always tough on D and special teams. Tyrod Taylor is supposed to be the full time starter this year...very dynamic player.
• Miami- Still recruiting well and they have a good coach. Not back to powerhouse level yet...but working on it.
• North Carolina- Butch Davis has this program on the upswing. Great recruiting and an easier schedule this year. I'm not saying they're up to par with the basketball program but the doormat days are over.
• Virginia- Had a great year last year. Losing Chris Long on defense is going to hurt. Won't have as strong as a season.
• Georgia Tech- New coaching staff with very different offense. They'll be using a wing T option that new coach Johnson employed at Navy...should take time to transition. Too many question marks.
• Duke- Still the doormat of the ACC even with David Cutcliffe as head coach. Should be better offensively. Cutcliffe is known as the guy who mentored Peyton and Eli during their collegiate careers.

Clemson v. V Tech in the ACC championship with Clemson pulling it out and taking a trip to the Orange Bowl.