NC State Wins Bitcoin Bowl on Horrible Field

((ht: espn.com))

Oooof...bowl games are fun. Right? They must be, why else would there be so many of them.

One of the...well, one of them was played Friday, the Bitcoin Bowl. It was played in the crappy Tropicana Dome in that exciting place known as St. Petersburg, Florida.

And based on the video, it was played in front of hundreds of fans. (Bowls don't release attendance figures for a reason we're thinking)

North Carolina State won the game 34-27 over UCF but not before the Knights valiantly tried to mount a comeback after being down 31-13 after three quarters.

Wolfpack RB Matt Dayes ran for 78 yards and 2 TD's, Jacoby Brissett threw for 262 yards and 1 TD to lead NC State to their 8th win on the season.

UCF QB Justin Holman threw for 291 yards and 3 TD's to lead the Knights who finish the season at 7-6.

Highlights from ESPN.com

Is This The Worst Trick Play Execution Of The Year...???

((HT: James Poling's Vine))

Well, it was Syracuse...


So, it was supposed to be a double-reverse, flea-flicker pass.

Didn't work at all...

Tyler Murphy Outduels Jacoby Brissett In The Battle Of Florida Quarterbacks.

Tyler Murphy

The Florida Gators have had issues at quarterback.


Jeff Driskel has lost the confidence of his head coach Will Muschamp and Gator fans.

Wouldn't you love to have kept Tyler Murphy or Jacoby Brissett.

Both are making an impact in the ACC.  Murphy at Boston College and Brissett at NC State.

They met at Carter Finley Stadium in Raleigh, North Carolina in the battle of Florida quarterbacks.

This one belonged to Murphy who threw for 101 yards and rushed for a 132 yards and two touchdowns.

Murphy's first was this 47 yard touchdown run to give the Eagles a 14-7 lead.


And then this 26 yard touchdown run that put away the Wolfpack 30-14


Jacoby Brissett threw for 174 yards and a touchdown,

"It all comes down to me playing better, which I have to come back next week and do," Brissett said.

NC State has now lost 11 straight ACC games and has never won a conference game during the Dave Doeren era.

"We all want microwaved results, me included, I know our fans do, I get it." Doeren said,

How Far Do You Have NC State In Your Office Pool Bracket?

If you have NC State as a one and done, or in this case a two and done, you might want to reconsider.

The Wolfpack had a nice run in the ACC Tournament to earned on of the last spots in the NCAA Tournament.

Tueaday night in their First Four NC State looked like a team that may have a significant run in the tournament. The Wolfpack took care of business defeating Xavier 74-59 led by T.J. Warren with 25 points.

Thanks CBS Sports

“That’s what you want as a coach; you want your team to keep getting better and I think we are getting better still,” NC State head coach Mark Gottfried said.

The Wolfpack have gotten better as the season has progressed and now looks like that team in the NCAA Tournament you dread in your bracket.

The one requirement you must have if you going to wear Cinderella's slipper is a great player playing his best basketball in March.  You can check that column for NC State.

T.J. Warren is one of the best players in the country.  Warren has scored 20 or more points in 19 consecutive games including the 25 points against the Musketeers.

'I just wanted to come out and be aggressive,'' Warren said. ''My shots wouldn't fall in the first half, but my teammates did a great job of finding me.''

Another element is a supporting cast for that great player and NC State seems to have that going for them too.

The guard combination of Tyler Lewis and "Cat" Barber has been outstanding.  Lewis had eight assists Tuesday night.

'T.J.'s a terrific player,'' Lewis said. ''We know that sometimes it's not going to be his best game. We need everybody to step up and make plays. I thought in the second half, T.J. did a tremendous job of hitting some shots.''

When Warren is struggling putting the ball in the net Ralston Turner has taken some of that slack.  Turner had 17 points against Xavier.

“We’ve had a crazy 48 hours." Turner said.

Yes the Wolfpack have.  NC State has gone from not knowing the post-season future to a strong performance that has a few basketball fans wishing they can change their office pool bracket.

Saint Louis is next for NC State Thursday in Orlando, Florida and the Wolfpack might be catching the Billikens at the right time.  SLU has host 4 of their last 5.

That's where the element of luck comes into play.

How long until we here another version of the "Cardiac Pack?"

Thanks Fox Sports

BUZZER BEATER: UNC Beats NC State Again

((HT: ACCDN))

Wasn't it just a little bit ago that we were all throwing dirt on North Carolina and head coach Roy Williams...???

Now, after last night, they've won ten in a row and are causing some serious trouble in the ACC...

Last night, Marcus Paige was responsible for the 16th win in the last 17 efforts against the Wolfpack


We'll leave the Roy Williams silent sit-in to Brother Wilkie...

It's The Pirate Way In North Carolina, East Carollina Has State Bragging Rights

My hats off to East Carolina since they own bragging rights in the state of North Carolina and made sure everyone knew it.  Following the Pirates 48-28 win over NC State Saturday this billboard appeared.

East Carolina beat NC State and already has a pirate-themed billboard up http://t.co/x0meWdJaY0 via @dennisglasgow pic.twitter.com/PE1UWNXmY1
— SB Nation (@sbnation) November 23, 2013

East Carolina is rubbing it in a little to NC State since the Wolfpack have been going with a "This Is Our State" campaign for a few years now.

 Pirate fans have a right to brag.  East Carolina defeated North Carolina and NC State this season.

A pirates life in North Carolina.

#3 Clemson Keeps Rolling, Defeats NC State 26-14

"Pulling a Clemson" wasn't going to happen in Raleigh Thursday night.

If you look in Websters dictionary pulling a Clemson meant losing a game no one can explain why.  The Tigers have a history of doing such a thing.

Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd continued to build his Heisman Trophy resume going 24-37 passing for 244 yards and three touchdowns in the Tigers 26-14 win over NC State.

Here's Boyd's second touchdown in the third quarter to Martavis Bryant.



Before Boyd's touchdown pass to Bryant NC State's Bryan Underwood appeared to have an 83 yards touchdown run.  Underwood tight-roped down the sidelines and the ACC officiating crew determined he stepped out of bounds.

The video evidence tells another story.





“That was right in front of me." NC head coach Dave Doeren said. "He (Underwood)  wasn’t out of bounds. Unfortunately, they blew it dead so we couldn’t review it. It cost us some points, but you have to move on from that.”

“To be honest, my eyes were straight on the end zone, I wasn’t looking at the ground,” Underwood said.

Clemson will have 12 days to prepare for Wake Forest next Saturday.

Isaiah Battle Goes Rock Em Sock Em Robots On National TV

((HT: ESPN))

It was a cheap shot and it got an ejection for this shot to NC State DB Jarvis Byrd


It just reminds the HQ of this...


Carry on...
Just an observation...

FCS Almost Does It Again At NC State... Notice We Said Almost...

((HT: The ACC))

When NC State kicker Niklas Sade kicked a 48 yard field goal with thirty-three seconds to go... the HQ thought that, when the Wolfpack had 1:52 on the clock to begin with- conventional wisdom was that there was too much time at the start of the drive...

HQ was right...

Dave Doeren is a very lucky man as the Wolfpack win 23-21 over the Richmond Spiders

Here's the highlights...


NC State improves to 2-0 and will get ready to play Clemson on Thursday, September 19th...
A very lucky 2-0...

Now It's The NCAA's Turn On Concussions... Have Fun...

Three ex-NCAA football players, two of whom played at the University of Tennessee only two years ago, have filed suit against the NCAA didn't educate them about concussions risk and didn't do enough to prevent, diagnose and treat brain injuries.

Chris Walker and Ben Martin from UT-K along with Dan Ahern, who played for North Carolina State from 1972-76, filed a class-action lawsuit in federal court in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Here's a feature on Walker from UTSports


And one on Martin...
((HT: knoxnews))


The lawsuit was filed by Washington-based attorney Michael Hausfeld, who is also the lead attorney in the Ed O'Bannon case against the NCAA.

((Commence spooky music...))

"The NCAA has not taken the necessary steps to protect these former players even though the medical tools to assist them have been available for some time," Hausfeld said in a statement. "It is not too late now for the NCAA to offer important education and needed medical testing to these former players."

Walker and Martin now claim to suffer headaches from the repeated head trauma and Ahern says he can't concentrate, his memory is not what it once was, he has ringing in his ears, and he can't sleep because of his injuries. He also claims to have been forced into retirement at age 50 and disability six years ago because of all this.

Conventional wisdom has the NCAA in a lot of trouble if Hausfeld gets to run with the concussion suit as much as he has run with the O'Bannon suit...

This does not look good at all...

2013 College Football Previews: The Atlantic Coast Conference

The only way a BCS conference can build its reputation is how it competes and wins

games against other BCS leagues. The ACC’s track record against other BCS conferences has been awful.

The numbers from the 2012 season broke down like this:

ACC vs. Big East: 5-5

ACC vs. Big Ten: 1-1

ACC vs. Big 12: 0-3
ACC vs. Pac-12: 1-1
ACC vs. SEC: 2-6
ACC vs. Notre Dame: 0-3

When you go 5-5 versus the Big East you have some work to do.

With all that said the tide might be turning. The ACC finished the bowl season 4-2 including Georgia Tech’s blowout win over Southern California and Clemson’s thrilling win over LSU.

The ACC has a few opportunities to keep trending up against the other BCS leagues. It will take some huge wins over big name schools (Georgia, Notre Dame, Florida) to move up from number five in the BCS pecking order.

Atlantic Division

Florida State Seminoles 2012 Record: 12-2

What To Like About The Seminoles
An Abundance Of Skill Players: FSU is loaded with speed, talent and skill. Just look at the receiver position, Rashad Greene can grab the ball in traffic or simply out run you plus with Kenny Shaw, Kelvin Benjamin and Greg Dent that corps of receivers is pretty stout. James Wilder, Jr, Devonta Freeman and newcomer Mario Pender give FSU a trio of dynamic running backs.

Things The Seminoles Need To Improve On
Quarterback: Freshman Jameis Winston impressed during spring practice but he has not taken a snap in a college game before. Head coach Jimbo Fisher has not named Winston as the starting quarterback….. yet. If Fisher does go with Winston his development on the fly will be key.

Schedule Breakdown:
Opening the season at Pittsburgh, the Panthers first ACC game, appears to be a trap game from the start but then again FSU has had 15 spring practices and a fall camp to prepare for that one. Florida State’s biggest games are on the road, October 19th at Clemson and their regular season finale November 30th at Florida.

And Now A Word From Coach Fisher:
“You have to have confidence. Winning a BCS game for the first time in 13 years, people say you should have, well if it was that easy we would have done it more than once in the last 13 years. Those things are hard. Winning a conference championship for the first time in seven years, and when you call yourself a champion even though that championship doesn’t carry any weight this season. We are not defending anything to go win something again but it does give you the blueprint to how to work, how to do things, what to expect. It does give that confidence that you know something I’ve been here, I’ve done this, I know how to act in these situations and allows your program and you individually to grow.

OSG’s Take
Wilkie: It all comes down to one game, October 19th at Clemson. Other than that, FSU should win 10 games simply because they have so much more talent than anyone else in the ACC.

Phil: Yup. Since I chimed in last, both Wilkie and Jon have summed this up pretty well. While they are talented enough to run the table, odds say they don’t. For some reason they always seem to fold under pressure. Always.

Jon: I could recuse myself from this preview as an alumnus, but I will say this. In the last decade, there’s always that game we shouldn’t win and do and one we shouldn’t lose but we do. I’m thinking the latter this season and more headaches for being almost above average for another year in a row.

Clemson Tigers 2012 Record 11-2

Things To Like About The Tigers:

The Return Of Tajh Boyd: When Boyd was walking off the field after Clemson’s Chick-Fil-A Bowl win over LSU he was leaning toward declaring for the NFL draft. Boyd decided to return to Clemson because his report from the NFL scouting service wasn’t all that favorable and he genuinely loves college football. Tajh Boyd is poised for a special season and just might make a Heisman Trophy run.

Say It’s So Sammy: Sammy Watkins had one hell of a sophomore slump. From a two game suspension to start the 2012 season to kidney infections to a sprained ankle that limited his playing time and the emergence of DeAndre Hopkins limiting his touches. Watkins should be back in form for his junior season, few possess his game changing ability. Watkins is a treat to score every time he touches the ball.

Things Clemson Needs To Improve On:
Defense: It’s just average. Head coach Dabo Swinney feels good about their progress but can this unit make key stops against the “big boys” on the schedule (Georgia, FSU, South Carolina)?

Schedule Analysis:
The Georgia game won’t make or break Clemson’s season but it will provide instant analysis as to where Clemson is especially on defense. By the luck of the draw Clemson is Syracuse’s first ACC game at the Carrier Dome, be prepared to be overdosed in Orange.

And Now A Word From Coach Swinney:
“This time last year we were a major, major work in progress defensively. It was scary actually.”
“The big thing is we have grown up in the trenches. Last year we had one senior no juniors so they were all freshman and sophomores. Fast forward a year later and we have all juniors and some key sophomores.”
“I really feel like our front seven is going to be the strength of our team. When this season is over I’ll be incredibly disappointed if our front seven is not one of our main strengths if not the strength of our football team. If you can be good up front defensively it sure solves a lot of problems.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Clemson might beat Georgia and Florida State but which game will be the Tigers puzzling loss, they annually have one. My guess either at Syracuse or at Virginia. That’s the only thing that might keep Clemson from winning the ACC and challenging for the BCS national title.

Phil: Best Clemson team in awhile, except for 2 things--(1) The defense and (2) See FSU. Mystifyingly, they also seem to lose a game they shouldn’t. Without fail. They’ll be favored for pretty much every game but somehow will manage to go 10-2.

Jon: And that’s what will keep FSU on top and Clemson second in the division- that and Jadaveon Clowney scaring Tajh Boyd…

Syracuse Orange 2012 Record: 8-5

Things To Like About The Orange:
Running Backs: Syracuse may have the best running back combo in the ACC. Jerome Smith is central casting for a classic power back. Smith rushed for 1,171 yards last season and only fumbled once in 227 carries. Prince – Tyson Gulley is a perfect complement to Smith who can also catch balls out of the back field.

What Syracuse Needs To Improve On:
Find A Quarterback: Ryan Nassib won’t be walking into the locker room this year. There will be competition with no clear front runner right now.

Schedule Breakdown:
Syracuse opens with Penn State at MetLife Stadium then it’s a roadie vs Northwestern. Tough way to open the season. Only Clemson of the Atlantic Division big boys comes to the Carrier Dome.

And Now A Word From Coach Shafer:
“I’m extremely anxious to take our tradition for what Syracuse is and add our traditions to those traditions in this conference and go compete, go compete our ass off. To me that’s what it’s all about and our kids are fired up to do so.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: After meeting and getting to know coach Shafer I’m a big fan. Shafer spent some time as defensive coordinator at Stanford when Jim Harbaugh was the head coach and has a lot of his qualities. Unfortunately it’s going to be a tough season for the Orange with a 4-8 season likely.

Phil: They will be competitive because they can run. Very few, if any ACC teams are good at that. They’ll need to ball control, keep it close and hope whichever QB emerges can win it. They’ll struggle to get to a bowl game.

Jon: Without Nassib and Doug Marrone, it will be interesting to see just how the case study goes. I don’t think year one will go well at all…

NC State Wolfpack 2012 Record: 7-6

Things To Like About The Wolfpack:
A Trio Of Receivers: New head coach Dave Doeren likes to toss the ball around and he inherits three really good receivers in Bryan Underwood, Quintin Payton and Rashard Smith. This trio should get plenty of touches in the new up-tempo offense.

What The Wolfpack Needs To Improve On:
Make A List: Who will emerge as the starting quarterback for one. Can State get more production from the running back position? Will a young offensive line gel in time to start the season and can the Wolfpack defense overcome losses at linebacker and the secondary.

Schedule Breakdown:
Somebody did NC State a favor putting together the 2013 schedule. The Wolfpack have only two games outside the state of North Carolina including eight games at Carter-Finley Stadium.

And Now A Word From Coach Doeren:
“I’m in the frame of mind of building a championship. I don’t know how long that’s going to take. We might be better than I think we might be worse than I think. I really don’t know.
“I have to get out on the field with our current talent and really see where we stand and then make the correct adjustments and fill in the voids with recruiting and development to get us where we need to be.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: I’m like coach Doeren. I have no clue how to forecast NC State. The Wolfpack may not have the players to win enough games to go to a bowl game however their schedule is so favorable NC State has a really good chance to play in one.

Phil: These guys are just never as good as they think they should be. A traditional “Middle of the Pack” team and we don’t see that changing anytime soon. Way too many holes here. If they match last years record, they should consider it a small miracle.

Jon: I think it’ll be an appearance in one of the conference minor bowls before we’re done because other teams are worse. Not because State is that much better than anyone else…

Maryland Terrapins 2012 Record: 4-8

Things To Like About The Terrapins:
Speed And Skill On The Perimeter: Stefon Diggs is a bona fide home run hitter. Diggs is a threat to go the distance every time he has his hands on the ball. On the other side Maryland adds JUCO transfer Deon Long who was the best receiver in junior college last year. Long led the country in receiving yards (1,625) and touchdowns (25). C.J. Brown will have plenty of weapons to throw to.

What The Terrapins Need To Improve On:
Newby’s On Defense: The Terps must replace seven starters from a defense that was third best in the ACC last season. That’s a lot to ask but if the Terp defense can at least maintain status quo things in College Park might turn around.

Schedule Breakdown:
Back to back games vs West Virginia in Baltimore and at Florida State will be brutal. The Terps get Clemson at home this year and must go to Blacksburg, VA to face Virginia Tech.

And Now A Word From Coach Edsall:
“I don’t look at it as a transitional season at all, I look at it as hey we have a tremendous schedule in the ACC. We are going to be going up against great competition, great players, great coaches. Our whole approach is we are focused and intent to be better and make sure we go out and prepare the right way and do all the thing we are supposed to do to get as many victories as we possibly can. The bottom line is we are playing in the Atlantic Division and we are looking to try to win that. We are trying to get to the championship game and get ourselves into a BCS game.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Maryland is going to be much better, the Terps can’t possibly lose three quarterbacks again. If there is very little drop off on defense Maryland goes to a bowl game, a third place finish in the ACC Atlantic Division is likely.

Phil: They’ll be better. And no reason they shouldn’t be. But....that being said, they are still a mediocre team that will struggle at times and the questions about Edsall will continue. If he wants to remain, they’ll need to get to a bowl game. Good luck with that.

Jon: See NC State… and the conference won’t have to worry about Maryland that much longer, anyway…

Wake Forest Demon Deacons 2012 Record: 5-7

Things To Like About The Demon Deacons:
Michael Of All Trades: Michael Campanaro’s position may be receiver but he has been known to play the running back position, return kicks and even throw the ball. Campanaro is Tanner Price’s favorite target and will be called upon to take more handoffs this season.

What The Demon Deacons Need To Improve On:
Just Stop Somebody: The Demon Deacon defense was among the ACC’s worst last season but much of that could be attributed toward injuries. The defensive line should be much better with the return of nose guard Nikita Whitlock but the linebackers must be better at getting to the quarterback and creating turnovers. The defensive backs allowed way to many big plays last year, that’s got to be cut down.

Schedule Breakdown:
Three of Wake Forest’s first five games are on the road, might be a tough start. Back to back roadies at Miami and at Syracuse late in the year is not fun either. The Deacs do draw Florida State at home.

And Now A Word From Coach Grobe:
“We probably hurt ourselves by trying to be too much of a pass happy football team. Too much pressure on the O-Line, too much pressure on the skill guys and I think last year we found out how important a guy like Mike Campanaro is to you. Mike got hurt in the Duke game we really lost our ability to move the football and score points.”
“We have got to get away from just counting on just 2 or 3 guys to get the job done we’ve got to rely on the other guys on the offense.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Jim Grobe’s feeling pressure to win and so he’s going back to the basics. Wake Forest is a veteran team and usually when Grove starts seniors the Deacs play well. If Tanner Price is much more consistant this year Wake has a chance to win six games and go bowling.

Phil: Agreed with Jon. They are probably the definition of average. Anything better than 6-6 should be considered a major success. Can’t win if you can’t stop anyone.

Jon: I can’t get a good read on Wake (sorry, J-Dub)… which, probably means a struggle to get to .500

Boston College Eagles
2012 Record 2-10

Things To Like About The Eagles:

B-C Will Kick Your Butt: Win or lose you opponent’s very rarely out-physical Boston College. Linebackers Kevin Pierre-Louis and Steele Divitto (great name for a linebacker) are outstanding. Don Brown is the Eagles new defensive coordinator and likes aggressive defenses that love to blitz. That might bode well this year:

What The Eagles Need To Improve On:

What Has Happened To Offensive Line “U”: The last few years Boston College’s offensive live has be very poor. This is a program that regular developed offensive lineman into decent NFL careers. Last year B-C allowed 36 sacks, near the bottom of the ACC and 106th in the NCAA, that has to improve.

Schedule Breakdown:

The Eagles may start out 2-0 with home games against Villanova and Wake Forest, and then reality will set in. First is off to L.A. to battle Southern California then hosting Florida State. Now someone explain to me why Boston College is going to Los Cruces, New Mexico to play New Mexico State?

And Now A Word From Coach Addazio:

“I think we have great kids in our program. They are high character, they really want to be good, they’ve got great work ethic and I just enjoyed being with them every day. “

“We’ve had the opportunity to coach really highly motivated student athletes and that is fun.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Eagle linebacker Steele Divitto told me that it’s been a culture shock at B-C since Steve Addazio took over even right to their team slogan, “Be A Dude." Addazio is a high energy guy that preaches toughness and accountability. Addazio’s first year as the Eagles head coach is going to be well tough. Perhaps three wins but it’s going to be a long year.

Phil:

Jon: Maybe a little better than last year, but not much... another long year...it wouldn't surprise me if they lose to Villanova, too...

Coastal Division

Miami Hurricanes 2012 Record: 7-5

Things To Like About The Hurricanes:
Get The Ball In Duke’s Hands: Duke Johnson had quite the year as a freshman gaining 947 yards which was second in the ACC in rushing. Johnson was a force on special teams with 895 yards returning kickoffs. Head coach Al Golden wants to put the ball in his hands more this year. Johnson’s got the talent to burst onto the national scene this year.

Morris Is The Man: Quarterback Stephen Morris flies way under the radar, even in the ACC. He completed 51 percent of his passes last year and even set an ACC single game record for passing yards with 566 against NC State. With the weapons Morris has at his disposal, Duke Johnson, Phillip Dorsett, Morris is poised for a great year.

What The Hurricanes Need To Improve On:
Starting From Scratch On Defense: Miami had the worst defense in the ACC last season and was ranked 116 in the nation in total defense. The Hurricanes couldn’t stop the run or the pass. There’s no way to go but up.

Schedule Breakdown:
The Hurricanes draw Floirda in week two, that will be huge for the ‘Canes to re-establish their national brand. They have both in state teams, Florida and Florida State, at Sun Life Stadium. Miami’s schedule is very manageable.

And Now A Word From Coach Golden:
“During this whole ordeal we’ve been going through we haven’t had one kid come in with their family and say ‘you know what coach this is just to tenuous, I have no idea what’s going on with the NCAA, we want to get out of dodge.’ And that really speaks to our coaches. That really speaks to the commitment that those young people have made to each other and speaks to the brotherhood that is the University of Miami football program.”

“They didn’t sit around and complain about it. They went back to work. They believe as we all believe that we’re going to have that opportunity if we do the things we need to do that opportunity won’t be taken away from us this year.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: This Miami team is loaded offensively. If the Hurricane defense does improve then I would expect to see the ‘Canes in Charlotte in December.

Phil: Big dropoff from FSU/Clemson to these guys. Sure they’ll score, but will they stop anyone. Not convinced. If. Big IF--Morris improves they have a shot, but they’ll need to score. A lot

Jon: I think they’ll improve, but not as much as people think. It’ll be a fight between the Canes and the next guys to decide the division…

Virginia Tech Hokies 2012 Record: 7-6

Things To Like About The Hokies:
Solid Defense: This side of the ball has been a model of consistency. Bud Foster’s defense was again among the nation’s best last season ranking 18th. With blue collar players like Jack Tyler and exceptional corners Antone Exum and Kyle Fuller it’s going to be one of the best again.

What The Hokies Need To Improve On:
Generating Some Offense: With very little production in the running game and lack of confidence in his receivers Hokie quarterback Logan Thomas felt like he had to do it all last season and carry the team on his shoulders. Thomas has some broad shoulders but not that big. Thomas has bonded with new offensive coordinator Scot Loeffler but finding a running back and a go to receiver are the priorities.

Schedule Breakdown:
It’s a dicey one. First opening the season in Atlanta against Alabama, good luck. Week three the Hokies play at East Carolina and a November schedule that has Virginia Tech on the road three of their last 4 games.

And Now A Word From Coach Beamer:
“I think we are at a good starting point. We’ve got a good defense, we’ve got a good quarterback, we’ve got good kickers and to me that’s a good starting point. I think we’ve got some talented players there in the offense, some of them are going to have to come along a play probably better than the should with their experience level and maturity. How well that develops probably will determine how well we are as a football team.”

“We’ve got a chance because I believe we have the foundation we just have to put it together.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: There’s a tendency to think the Hokies are in decline. Think of Frank Beamer’s great teams in the past, they have always had one, even two great running backs. They need to find one this season. The Hokies will keep the bowl streak alive but that November schedule is tough.

Phil: Wilkie, they are in decline. But I don’t chalk that up to coaching. THey don’t have the players. All their eggs are in Thomas’s basket and he’s been immensely disappointing. They’ll be solid. And in this half of the draw, it may be enough.

Jon: These guys are the only team that will keep Miami out of the title game. The program just seems to be floating about right now without any fear being put in the opposition like in year’s past. It’ll be a top-4 ACC bowl for these guys…

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 2012 Record: 7-7

Things To Like About The Yellow Jackets:
Vad Lee And His Versitility: Paul Johnson gave quarterback Vad Lee a lot of playing time last year and his presence seemed to spark the Georgia Tech offense. Lee’s performance against North Carolina last year (169 yards passing, 112 yards rushing) is the kind of versatility that has been lacking at the quarterback position the last few years.

What the Yellow Jackets Need To Improve On:
New Leadership With The GT Defense: Obviously things didn’t work out with Al Groh in charge of the Georgia Tech defense. The Yellow Jackets gave up 42 points to Miami, 49 points to Middle Tennessee State and 47 points to Clemson in a three week period before Groh was dismissed. Ted Roof comes back to the Flats and has installed an aggressive defense that will fit the pass rushing skills of Jeremiah Attouchu. Cutting down opponants scoring opportunites is key.

Schedule Breakdown:
It’s not a bad one. The Jackets get North Carolina, Virginia Tech and Georgia at home. Back to back road trips at Miami then at BYU is not ideal.

And Now A Word From Coach Johnson:
“We aren’t going to vary from what we do [offensively]. Last year I think we averaged 400 yards and 40 points a game in the league. Clearly we would like to be more consistent with Vad, more efficient and want to win more games. We’re not going to blow it up and start over.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: OK I’m curious about Georgia Tech. On paper they look no better than a 6-6 team yet there was a general feeling at the ACC Football Kickoff event that the Yellow Jackets may be better that we think. Moving Jeremiah Attaochu to Defensive End is a great move. If Vad Lee develops into a duel threat quarterback Georgia Tech might be in the mix to repeat (and I use that word rather loosely) as Coastal Division champions.

Phil: CPJ, while proving to be a much more entertaining follow on Twitter than I could ever have imagined, is in trouble. The ACC has figured out his offense. Or at least enough to keep them somewhat under wraps. Unless a B-Back breaks from the pack, Lee can’t do it alone. And never mind the D--or lack of it. Wilkie already said it, 6-6 and a new coach in 2014.

Jon: I’m looking at paper and thinking paper is right…

North Carolina Tar Heels 2012 Record: 8-4

Things To Like About The Tar Heels:
“Fedora’s Freak Show” Part 2: Head coach Larry Fedora promised an offense that was hopped up on Red Bull and delivered. The Tar Heels averaged a school record 40.6 points per game last season. Hell Carolina scored 50 against Georgia Tech and lost. It helps when you have a quarterback in Bryn Renner who rarely makes mistakes and is pinpoint accurate.

What The Tar Heels Need To Improve On:
Filling The Void Of Giovani Bernard: Giovani Bernard was the most exciting player in the ACC last season. Who’s going to fill that “big play” void the Heels had in Bernard? Receiver Quinshad Davis is a candidate on the edge, out of the backfield that might be accomplished by committee. A.J. Blue and Romar Morris aren’t bad but combined can they add up to Bernard’s production and overall explosiveness?

Schedule Breakdown:
The Tar Heels open the season at South Carolina. North Carolina must play Coastal Division foes Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech on the road.

And Now A Word From Coach Fedora:
“Bryn [Renner] really fits what we are trying to do offensively. Now part of that is that we have tweeked the offense to what Bryn can do and we are going to take advantage of his skills. Bryn can make every throw there is on the field. He’s got great arm strength. As the season went on last year he got so much better in the decision making process, also in game management. “

“If we take care of the football he [Renner] knows we’ve got an opportunity to win the football game.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Not having a home run hitter like Giovani Bernard is doing to hurt. Bryn Renner is a damn good quarterback. The Tar Heels go to a bowl game and match the win total from last year at eight.

Phil: Good team. Equal with Miami and Va.Tech IMO. Not great and definitely not better than Clemson/FSU, but they have a good shot at being in ACC Champ game. Like Larry the Hat as a coach, he’s done well here.

Jon: I think Larry Fedora is on a short list of coaches that will be getting big name jobs calling soon… another year like last year’s will give that to him. He’ll be getting those calls before we know it…

Pittsburgh Panthers 2012 Record 6-7

Things To Like About The Panthers:
Fantastic Front Seven: Defensive Tackle Aaron Donald was a beast in the Big East Conference last season leading that league in tackles (18.5) and that should carry over into the ACC. Pitt’s linebackers may be the best unit they have had in years. They will stop somebody.

What The Panthers Need To Improve On:
Establishing The Pass: Transfer Tom Savage figures to be Pitt’s quarterback this season and will be called upon to throw the ball to the Panther playmakers, especially Devin Street. Savage last saw significant playing time in 2009 as Rutgers’ starting quarterback. He will need to shake off the rust from lack of playing time and school hoping.

Schedule Analysis:
Pitt can make a big impression if they can get by Florida State on Labor Day night at Heinz Field. All in all, the schedule is not kind with Notre Dame (not a conference game) on the docket as well.

And Now A Word From Coach Chryst:
“I’ve been relieved that our guys aren’t just talking about one team. They understand and appreciate the depth of this league and to opportunities and challenges we face.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: The schedule is just too tough for Pitt to make a big splash during their first ACC season. Florida State might blow out Pitt from the start. 2013 will be a learning experience.

Phil: They fit the ACC well. Never bad, never great and always lose when they shouldn’t. Fit the prototype of a 6/7 win team that may scare some conference foes, but that’s about it.

Jon: Too much turmoil and too tough a schedule… I think coach Chryst will get another shock loss and the fan at Pitt will be really bent out of shape again…

Duke Blue Devils: 2012 Record: 6-7

Things To Like About The Blue Devils:
Actually Can Compete In The Trenches: Duke usually gets pushed around in the trenches, that’s not a given anymore. The Blue Devils have some size and some talent on the lines.

What The Blue Devils Need To Improve On:
Pitch And Catch Combo: Sean Renfree was a very capable quarterback and could always count on Connor Vernon for some big plays. Both have moved on. Anthony Boone takes over at quarterback and Jamison Crowder becomes the go to guy. Can they move the Duke offense consistently?

Schedule Breakdown:
Fairly easy. No Florida State, No Clemson from the Atlantic.

And Now A Word From Coach Cutcliffe:
“There is a lot of culture work still need to be done. And it’s just the culture is what it falls back to. It’s call inertia and it just keeps going back in other people’s minds. We have that battle and my message to the team and really to the staff is you don’t like what you’re getting then change what you are doing. I think the signal is now consistently being a winner. That’s on us to prove.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Yes Duke went to a bowl game but they lost six of their last seven games and finished with a losing record last season. Believe me, Duke football is light years ahead of what David Cutcliffe inherited when he took over in 2008. A few breaks here and there they might get six wins but I just don’t see it.

Phil: Nope. They’ll fall back a bit this year. We like Cutcliffe, but he’s only so much of a magician. Loss of Renfree will be hard to replace.

Jon: While there are easy parts of the schedule, I don’t think there will be a repeat of last season…

Virginia Cavaliers 2012 Record 4-8

Things To Like About The Cavaliers:
Nice Group Of Skill Players On Offense: The Cavaliers have a really good running back in Kevin Parks and a receiver three-some of Daruis Jennings, Dominique Jennings and Tim Smith.

What The Cavaliers Need To Improve On:
Who’s Going To Play Quarterback: It’s between David Watford and Greyson Lambert. Watford is the duel threat, Lambert is the classic drop-back passer. Each will bring a different dynamic.

Schedule Breakdown:
Virginia opens the season hosting BYU and then hosting Oregon, one hell of a way to open 2013. Ending the season with two of their last 3 games on the road won’t be fun.

And Now A Word From Coach London:
“David Watford went into spring and came out of spring listed as number one [quarterback]. David played as a true freshman, we redshirted him last year, and he had the opportunity to kind of soak and look and see what the maturation process occurs for players.”

“Greyson Lambert had the benefit of being a mid-year for us and is another talented young man. They are battling for that position. We will in early August camp be definitive as to who our starter will be.”

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Virginia is much better than a 4-8 team. If the Cavaliers get any kind of consistent play at quarterback then UVA should be playing in a bowl game.

Phil: Yup. Typical ACC team. Decent, not great. Not a threat to win a title but good enough to get to a bowl game. And the guess is, that will be exactly what they do.

Jon: I could see a bowl game here… Charlotte, maybe…

GT's Cheat Sheet... Volume One... The Silly Season...

Every once in a while, FOSG Gil Tyree will be dropping his knowledge on all of us as to the events of the day...

First stop...

College hoops...

The Trigger has been pulled on coaching merry go round.

UCLA's firing of Ben Howland leaves Athletic Director Dan Guerrero in a quandary. Does he go for a big name like you did in football by hiring JL Mora? That move seems to have restored some dignity to the football program.

But the Basketball program is a different animal. Do you go big name and try to hire Butler's Brad Stevens (Hard to imagine him leaving Indianapolis because the Bulldogs will become part of the New BIG East and Stevens top assistant Matthew Graves just bolted to replace Ronnie Arrow at South Alabama.

The micro-managing alumni who yearn for the days of the legendary John Wooden want spice and sizzle, aka Shaka Smart.

I would urge Guerrero to talk to Alabama's Mal Moore and see what he did when reached out and hired Nick Saban to run Crimson Tide Nation. Saban's multiple national championships have quieted the Bear Bryant obsessed culture. What Bama is to football, basketball programs like UCLA, Kentucky, North Carolina, Duke, Syracuse, Indiana, and Louisville live in that same world.

Bama seemed to eventually have gotten that hire right. Learning their playbook is key for Guerrero. How about Michigan State Tom Izzo? There is history of Big 10 coaches moving west, Lute Olson left Iowa to go to Arizona, and Bill Frieder left Michigan right at the tournament in 1989 to go to Arizona State. The then Sun Devil AD Charles Harris was admonished by the then Wolverines AD Bo Schembechler, who said he wanted a Michigan man to coach the basketball. Steve Fisher now at San Diego State led a team with stars like Rumeal Robinson, Loy Vaught, and Terry Mills to a National Championship. Could we see another Big 10 coach head West...?

Just sayin'...

You will also hear names like NC State's Mark Gottfried, and Washington's Lorenzo Romar (both served as assistants on UCLA's last National Championship team coached by Jim Harrick).

My darkhorse would be John Groce of Illinois (an up and comer) or somebody currently in the NBA who has had the great success in college. The Brooklyn Nets current interim head coach PJ Carlissimo could be that guy.

As far as March Madness is concerned...

Ratings are 23% higher on CBS/Turner/TBS/TruTV. The Nation right now is IN LOVE with Florida Gulf Coast University, coached by Andy Enfield (even as we speak FGCU hierarchy are trying to increase his base salary package of 157-thousand dollars.

Enfield is self-made millionaire but still to keep him you are going to have to take care of him. He is hot coaching commodity right now along with LaSalle's John Giannini and Wichita State Gregg Marshall, both their teams will meet in the West Regional in Los Angeles.

I met Andy, his former super model wife Amanda (Marcum) with their 3 kids at breakfast while I working for Georgia Public Broadcasting's coverage of GHSA basketball championships. They were staying at the same hotel as we were. They are an AWESOME story. They are REAL people, who exude everything that is right in our society. I wish them, their staff, and players the very best now they are in the Sweet 16. They became the 1st 15 seed to make the Sweet 16. How ironic as that as the NCAA celebrates its 75th anniversary of the Final 4?

Isn't ironic that both UCLA and USC are looking for head coaches at the same time. In the Land of Troy you hear names like Tim Floyd (former Trojans coach now at UTEP, and Gonzaga's Mark Few who is linked to the UCLA opening. I will give you a darkhorse what about George Mason's Paul Hewitt, who before he was at Sienna, Georgia Tech, and Villanova was a one-time assistant for George Raveling at Southern Cal.

Raveling was Hewitt's mentor and is still held in high regard at SC. Good Luck Pat Haden (USC AD). Hewitt will also be linked to a possible opening at Villanova should Jay Wright go to Minnesota now that Tubby Smith is out. The target of Minn AD is Shaka Smart, both worked together at VCU. I would also tell folk Alabama's Anthony Grant could also be in play in the Twin Cities. And then there is Buzz Williams at Marquette. What will his coaching future look like after the Golden Eagles are ousted from the Sweet 16 or Elite 8?

Lots of coaching dominoes will be falling and should be straight by the time the Final 4 rolls to Atlanta or shortly thereafter.

You can add names like Seth Greenberg and Flip Saunders to the coaching dominoes. Both are trying to stay relevant by doing television. They both have the itch to get back into coaching. I think to New Mexico's Steve Alford and Arizona State's Herb Sendek may look to exit their programs as well seeing what has happened to Tubby Smith and Ben Howland. You have some disgruntled and impatient alumni out there these days. It is what have you done for me lately mentality and show me deep tournament runs and National titles.

Brett Williams of NC State With Early Catch of the Year Bid

((ht: biglead.com))

This folks, is impressive.

Check out Centerfielder Brett Williams of North Carolina State who on Wednesday made what could arguably be considered an early season candidate for "Catch of the Year".

Williams takes a flying leap after a sinking line drive catches, somersaults and totally sticks the landing. Oh, yeah, he made the catch too.

Nicely done young man.

Here's the video proof from NC State their ownselves...

 

BUZZER BEATER: Terps Top Wolfpack On Alex Len's Tip In.

Since Mark Turgeon came to Maryland last year as head coach the Terrapins have not had a big win to claim.

“All week Coach talked about making a mark in history.” Maryland guard Seth Allen said.

“I didn't come here to be mediocre, and I don't think the players came here to be mediocre.” Turgeon said.

So here is Maryland’s chance Wednesday night to reappear on the national scene with a big win.

14^th ranked NC State was coming to the Comcast Center fresh from a signature win over then top ranked Duke last Saturday.  In a way the swagger had returned to NC State basketball.

Backing up a Duke win at Maryland’s Comcast Center is a tough assignment, especially against a Terrapin team fired up with the backing of their fans.

What transpired was a typical ACC regular season classic that came down to the wire and made Alex Len a Terrapin hero for the time being.

 

“You have to be good and you have to be lucky.” Turgeon said.  “We were pretty lucky at the end to get the win.”

“Obviously it's disappointing.”  NC State head coach Mark Gottfried said. “Pe'Shon [Howard] got the ball right over his fingertips there and they tipped it in. We got a good look the trip before that; Scott [Wood] got a high percentage shot for us, and just didn't make it. They made the play there at the end, and give them credit."

"[Pe'Shon Howard] says it wasn't a miss, it was a pass.” Maryland’s Alex Len said. “The play was for Logan [Aronhalt], but Pe'Shon was driving it. He said it was a pass, I don't know what it was. I just tipped it in."

NC State tries to rebound hosting Clemson on Sunday at the PNC Arena. 

Maryland tries to back up the NC State win going to the Smith Center to face the North Carolina Tar Heels.  Mark Turgeon has yet to defeat his coaching mentor, Roy Williams in three tries.

Chicago Bears hire Marc Trestman as next head coach

Trestman in Grey Cup form. (Photo coachmarctrestman.com)

CHICAGO - The Bears have found Lovie Smith's successor.

Early Wednesday morning, in a team press release, Chicago announced they have hired Marc Trestman as the 14th coach in team history. Trestman has spent the last eight years out of the NFL, and won back-to-back Grey Cups with the CFL's Montreal Alouettes in 2011 and 2012.

“The skill set that Marc has, being an offensive mind, and then his great relationships that he's had with quarterbacks historically in the NFL and the work he's done with them makes him a good fit for the job,” Alouettes general manager Jim Popp told the Chicago Tribune.

Funny thing is, when GM Phil Emery hired his new coach yesterday, he did it on Trestman's 57th birthday. That's pretty cool.

Trestman is known around the League as a quarterback guru, and was probably brought in to "fix" Jay Cutler. Trestman worked with the beleaguered Bears QB in 2006, preparing him for the NFL draft combine.

Trestman was San Francisco's offensive coordinator from 1995-1996, and worked with a QB many people should know - Hall of Famer Steve Young.

''The CFL is just a place where he's gotten to show that he's a dynamic leader,'' Young said in an interview on the ''Waddle & Silvy Show'' on WMVP-AM on Tuesday. ''He's a dynamic straight-shooter. He's a soft-spoken guy, but the Bears with their defensive history...this is going to be a great hire.[He'll hire a] great defensive coordinator. Keep that tradition up and watch the flowering of a great offense. Look what's happening in San Francisco. That's what the Bears could be. And I think that's what Marc Trestman can bring them.''

The Bears will officially announce the hire Wednesday afternoon.

Emery brought in a reported 13 candidates to interview for the head coaching position, including Trestman, Indianapolis OC Bruce Arians (who was the other finalist), and Seattle OC Darrell Bevell. The Bears were definitely looking for an offensive-minded coach.

I knew Trestman when he worked as offensive coordinator for Chuck Amato at North Carolina State University from 2005-2006. The team won the Meineke Car Care Bowl in 2005, defeating a good South Florida team 14-0.

Good luck, Marc.
His name won't immediately translate to the Bears fan base, so in the interim, here's proof of his successes in the last few years up north...
((HT: GoAlsGodotcom/TSN))

NC State's Wheelchair Court Stormer Enjoying His 15 Minutes

NC State student and fan Will Privette is getting his 15 minutes of fame.

Privette was the guy in the wheelchair that stormed the court after NC State upset Duke Saturday 84-76 at PNC Arena and was toppled in the chaos at mid-court.

Here’s Privette’s perspective of storming the court from his camera phone.

Privette told the Raleigh News Observer, “I was about to get crushed, but once C.J. saw me, he started pushing everyone away.  Then he just picked me up and he was jumping up and down and I just kept patting him on the head and saying, ‘Thank you.’ ”

Privette, who’s a student at NC State, appeared on ACC Live on the ACC Digital Network discussing his new found fame and his experience in the “Red Sea.”

Perhaps storming the court is not a good idea for a person in a wheelchair but you have to love the enthusiasm.  Next time Privette might want to, dare I say, put the brakes on doing that again.

Easy Money: Vandy Rolls NC State in Music City Bowl

What is it that people say about ACC Football? Soft? Horrible?

How about just plain lost. That is the only way to describe how Vanderbilt so utterly dominated a horribly self-destructive team from North Carolina State.

And the funny part of it. At some point NC State believed they could hire Vandy's James Franklin to be their head coach after they fired Tom O'Brien. Oh, Franklin got a contract extension in Nashville instead.

No, not an SEC coach in their right mind, with a winning record, would ever leave the SEC for the ACC in football, never.

That being said, Vandy rode 2 Jordan Rodgers TD passes and 5 NC State turnovers to a relatively easy 38-24 win in the Music City Bowl Monday afternoon. Zac Stacy added 107 yards and Vanderbilt finishes this season with a solid 9-4 record

Your highlights from the Bowl leader, ESPN:

Doeren Gets Enough MACtion, Goes To NCState

The last we saw of Dave Doeren, he was hoisting the MAC Championship trophy for Northern Illinois' win over Kent in 2OT...

Remember...???
((HT: MACDigitalNetwork))


Looks like he won't be around DeKalb, Illinois except to clean out his desk...
He's been hired to take over the North Carolina State job...the 34th head coach in school history. The press conference on campus is set for Sunday...

“Coach Dave Doeren is a highly motivated overachiever who shares our goals to pursue aggressively a high level of achievement in the classroom and on the field of competition,” athletic director Debbie Yow said.

“I am honored and excited to join the Wolfpack. NC State has world-class facilities and fans that are second to none,” Doeren said. “I want to thank Chancellor Woodson and Debbie Yow for this tremendous opportunity. My family and I can’t wait to get to Raleigh and become Wolfpackers. While I look forward to our future at State, I want to acknowledge and thank the Northern Illinois players and fans for their support the last two years, especially President Peters and Jeff Compher [athletic director].”

Doeren's career spans from Drake to Montana to Kansas and Wisconsin- never having been a head coach until NIU. He finished 23-4 in two years, going 17-1 in the MAC.

Will Doeren be accepted with open arms in the south or will he be thought of as a carpet-bagger who doesn't get "it" down here...???

Debbie Yow expects a top-25 team consistently in the A-Cee-Cee...
Good luck on that one...

Carousel Continues: Tom O'Brien asked to leave NC State

This one was a little more surprising, though maybe not so much to fans of ACC Football.

North Carolina State announced on Sunday that they are parting ways with Coach Tom O'Brien. The Wolfpack were 7-5 this season, not an embarrassment by any stretch, but apparently too much for NC State athletic director Debbie Yow.

Oh...and maybe the fan base who apparently believes the Wolfpack should be a much better team than that. To which we would respond...really?

O'Brien had been at NC State for the past six years and his contract goes for another 2-years. The school owes him $1.5 million for each of those seasons.

The school did release a statement which you can read RIGHT HERE

This one just strikes us as making a move for the sake of making a move. So, maybe O'Brien is older and hasn't made the Wolfpack a "National Power", but they play in the ACC which really doesn't have one of those. They are a solid mid-to upper level ACC team and perhaps, if they find the right guy, they can move to the top.

We...and everyone else...will see.

UPDATE:

According to OSG Sources in Raleigh, Debbie Yow would like to hire Vanderbilt head coach James Franklin.  When Yow was athletic director at Maryland she had named Franklin head coach in waiting.  Those same sources tell OSG Sports that Vanderbilt might up the ante on Franklin to stay with the Commodores.

Clemson offensive coordinator Chad Morris is described as a “strong candidate” for the job.

There are reports that Washington State head coach Mike Leach has already been contacted by NC State.  OSG sources could not confirm that. 

Giovani Bernard Is The Most Exciting Player In College Football, A Game For The Ages Against NC State

Giovani Bernard has to be the most exciting player in college football.

The North Carolina running back leads the ACC in rushing and today in Chapel Hill, NC returned a punt that Tar Heel fans will talk about for years to come.

Bernard fielded a NC State punt and took it the distance 74 yards with 13 seconds left to lift North Carolina past their arch rivals 43-35 ending the Tar Heels five game losing streak to the Wolfpack.

Check it out, Bernard’s game winning punt return for six happens at 10:29 with the call from the voice of the Tar Heels and FSOG Jones Angell. (Thanks GoHeels.com)

Earlier in the game Bernard rolled his ankle and it bothered him. Even with that nagging injury Bernard had something left in the tank after all, 2006 was the last time the Tar Heels had defeated the Wolfpack.”

“I told my backup punt returner, 'Let me try to see what I can do on this one.'” Bernard said.  “It was something that I had to dig deep in myself. My ankle was bothering me a little bit.”

And with a hurting ankle Bernard was still elusive enough to avoid the NC State special teams.

“He's a guy that when a play needs to be made, he wants to be out there.” North Carolina head coach Larry Fedora said.

"As a team, we're just very blessed to have him. Very humble kid. The play he made was unbelievable."  North Carolina quarterback Bryn Renner said.

Bernard’s punt return for a touchdown was the capper for another outstanding performance rushing for 135 yards and two touchdowns. He also caught eight balls for 95 yards. 

So when you add it all up Bernard had 230 yards from scrimmage and a career-best 304 all-purpose yards today and three touchdowns.

No doubt Gio Bernard earned the game ball.