The Snub List: Who should've made the NCAA Tournament and who didn't...

Every year there is the argument, team A should never had made the tournament and team B should have. But the NCAA Basketball tournament selections are done by people, not machines. That's what makes it the great event that it is.

And like every year, there are several teams sitting at home right now, palms upraised and shoulders shrugged saying: WTF!

And they wouldn't be wrong.

Teams such as: UAB (Alabama-Birmingham), 22-8 overall, 12-4 in their conference. They lost their only game against a Top 25 team, Duke blew them out 85-64. Really, there isn't a signature win here, they won their conference games(Conf. USA) and that's about it.

Clemson. 21-11 overall, 9-7 in the ACC. Face it. The ACC outside North Carolina and Duke, sucked this year. This is an average Clemson team. In fact, if you look at their history. This about where they normally finish every year. Again, no stand out wins...against anyone.

USC. 19-14 and 10-8. They won some games against Top 25 teams unlike the teams above, but lost some stinkers too. They are slightly above average in an average PAC 10. But they are in.

VCU. 23-11 and 12-6. One win vs. the Top 25. One of the worst rebounding teams in Division 1 (301st). Yeah, they beat a mediocre UCLA and George Mason in the conference tourney. Nothing else jumps off the page. But they are in.

And the outs. Or as you can call them "NIT Top Seeds":

Colorado. 20-13, 8-8. Yeah, they didn't play a great non-conference schedule. But they have a slew of Top 25 wins. Including 3 wins versus Kansas State. Did they lose a couple of games they shouldn't have. Maybe, but its hard to explain how they didn't get in. They did everything needed it seems.

Alabama. 21-11, 12-4. A little weaker of an argument, but they have one. Another crappy non-conference schedule did them in. Along with a really bad SEC West. Only 1 Top 25 win (Kentucky), probably didn't help.

Va.Tech. 21-11, 9-7. They are pretty much a carbon copy of Clemson. And yes, they should've been better, but this is always what they are. Every year. The perennial bubble team.  A good win vs. Duke in Feb. but nothing else jumps off the page. Yes, they underachieved, and ultimately that probably did them in.

Boston College. 20-12, 9-7. Yeah. Um. Well. They, Va.Tech and Clemson are pretty much the same teams...with similar results. Nothing this team did jumps off the page at you. But since they are in the ACC, the talking heads assume they should be there. We don't really by that and wouldn't consider this team on the Snub List.

Again, this is the reason we love the NCAA Basketball Tournament. It's subjective. They don't always get it right. But that is ok. We don't have a problem with that. Is the NCAA field the best its ever been this year? No it isn't. But this may be a good year for that very reason.

Here's a discussion on the Snub List from the boys at ESPN. Jay Bilas gained some respect with his argument. He's not wrong. You can argue either way...for any of these teams.



And Tournament Chairman Gene Smith explains the process to our friends at CBS Sports right here:

Broseph's Bits And The Tuesday Gospel

I made a disturbing discovery this past weekend. It was so bad that I actually couldn't even write anything on Monday for fear of it's consequences. Before I expose the discovery, some quick background. I'm a college basketball nerd as this column has exposed. I'll wager on anything from the Big Sky to the Ivy League. I've been known to stay up late nights to listen to Hawaii basketball on the internet. I'm someone who yearns for the days of the West Coast Conference midnight ESPN2 game on Big Mondays with Terry Gannon and Stephen Bardo. I participate in a PRE-tournament pool and spend hours researching for it even though I've only won once.

I'm hoping the above illustrated the point. I dig my college basketball and apparently lonely nights at home as well. This past weekend I experienced a first though. I hit college basketball overload and was actually repulsed by the site of any game Saturday night. It could be because I started bright and early with the Xavier - St. Louis game at 11am. After watching that Atlantic 10 game, I moved over to St. Johns and UCLA on CBS until Temple and Rhode Island took the court around 2:05. So far, so good for me as I continued to feed my appetite. We then moved on to another one of the Gospel's favorite teams to watch in Gonzaga who took on Memphis in Spokane. This game kept me going as I flipped over to Vs. from time to time to watch UNLV and BYU. Around 5:15-5:30, I began to feel this discomfort and disinterest in the sporting world. I pushed myself to watch the 1st half of the Duke-NC State game, but the Blue Devils make my blood pressure rise. Around 7 o clock or so I hit the wall. I was like a marathoner sapped of all my strength. The true test came at eight with non-BCS school St. Mary's hosting Loyola Marymount. Unfortunately this did nothing, but turn me towards bad horror movies on Netflix.

The moral of the story is that there is a limit for everyone. There's only so much I can take before I just need an episode of "House" or "How I Met Your Mother" to cleanse the palette. We even took a few days to get away from betting on college basketball. The gospel can't do THAT much longer so here's a pair of winners for tomorrow.

Wichita State -16 -- The Salukis are on a terrible streak and have a team that is wounded beyond belief. They are without three players, two of which are starters after coach Chris Lowery suspended them for violation of team and university rules. Gene Teague and Mykel Cleveland are two key players who would be needed especially for a tough road trip at Wichita State. The first time these two played on January 26th, the Shockers won 74-64. SIU meanwhile has lost eight of their last 10 games including two home losses to Drake and woeful Bradley. Even with a full lineup, Southern Illinois scores just 61.8 points per contest. They'll turn to Carlton Fay (13.1 ppg) and Mamadou Seck (10.8 ppg) for their scoring now. The Shockers are 20-4, 11-2 in the Missouri Valley. They are putting up 74.3 points per game. They do it with balance and six players who average at least six points. Wichita State pounds bad teams at home beating Illinois State by 17, Bradley by 20, Drake by 19, Evansville by 34, Alabama A&M by 22 and Nicholls State by 18. They have won five straight all by 10 or more points with all 11 of their conference wins by 10 or more as well.

Boston College/Clemson Over 134.5 -- BC snapped a three game losing streak with a 58-56 win last time out over Virginia Tech. Now they hit the road to take on Clemson Tuesday night. The Eagles are averaging 73.3 points per game while giving up just over 70. Boston College's lack of a defense showed up during a streak of 16 straight games where they gave up 65 points or more to their opponents. Some of those games they managed to keep up offensively, but unfortunately in others they fell woefully short. The Eagles rely on Reggie Jackson (17.6 ppg), Joe Trapani (14.6 ppg), Corey Raji (12.3 ppg) and Biko Paris (10.7 ppg) for offense. Clemson meanwhile has excelled on the defensive end allowing only 59.6 points per game. They have six players who average 7.9 points per game or more. The Tigers defense has been stellar giving up 56 or less in four straight. They have shown that they will run at times scoring over 70 against Miami and Georgia Tech. This series has produced two overs in the last three meetings. We think this trend will continue.

National Signing Day Wrap

The HQ understands about signing day...
It's kinda like this...
A - Always
B- Be
C- Closing

Always, be, closing...



But Georgia kept 19 players home in their 25 signee class... that's huge...
And Isaiah Crowell even brought props...
((HT: ESPNU))


FOSG Buck Lanford talks about the greatest hits...
((HT: MyFoxAtlanta))

It's High School Football Signing Day: MyFoxATLANTA.com

The national champs had a pretty good day...
Here's the Chiz watching the Enrique Florence signing...
((HT: WBRC-TV Birmingham/MyFoxAl.com))


Nick Saban's day is hyah...

Shelley Smith catches up with Jimbo Fisher...
Everyone thinks Florida State had the best class in the country...
The HQ isn't so sure...
((HT: ESPNU))


Donnitra Gilbert is at Thomas County Central to check in on the cross-state class, thanks to our friends at WCTV

Man-mountain Cyrus Kouandjio picked Auburn over Alabama- the place where his brother currently is.
((HT: ESPNU))


That didn't sit well with Cyrus' parents. After the selection at DeMatha ((MD)) High School and all the consternation, he left school to "figure things out..."

And, apparently, Cyrus was developing a nervous tick over the whole process...
((HT: Brooks via Kristen Kenney/Scout.com))


Clemson got top prep linebacker Tony Steward...
((HT: WSPA-TV))


And the HQ is still trying to figure out how the OBC got 30...
((HT: WSPA-TV))


And FOSG Jeff Hullinger turned an interesting piece on Ralph David Abernathy IV...
Yes, THAT family of Abernathy's...
((HT: WXIA-TV/11alive.com))


That should get you started...
More when we know more...

Clemson 0-55 In Chapel Hill, The Win Streak Continues For North Carolina

The Clemson Tigers gave it their best shot but for the 55th time the Tigers lost to the North Carolina Tar Heels 75-65.

The Clemson - North Carolina basketball series dates back to 1926 and the Tigers have yet to defeat the Tar Heels on their home floor. It's the longest such streak in college basketball history.

Clemson head coach Brad Brownell could care less about that streak.

"I think it has no bearing whatsoever," Brownell said after the game. "It's not like we're in the huddle and saying, 'We've got a chance to end the streak.' We could care less. We're just trying to figure out a way to get a basket, get a stop. I can't imagine in their huddle, their coaches are like, 'Fellas, we've really got to win this one because we've got to keep the streak going.'"

WRAL's Ken Medlin has the game story from the Smith Center. (Thanks WRAL-TV)



North Carolina head coach Roy Williams begged his Tar Heel team to come out with intensity after showing nothing of the sort Sunday against Georgia Tech. Williams felt his team wasn't playing with any sense of urgency the last three games.

Here's the post game sound with Roy Williams after the game. (Thanks WRAL-TV)



Photo Courtesy: Robert Willett/Raleigh News Observer

TWTW Bowling: South Florida Survives 2 Onside Kicks In Meineke Win

B.J. Daniels threw two touchdowns passes and ran for a third and South Florida finished coach Skip Holtz's first season with a 31-26 victory over Clemson in the Meineke Bowl.

Mo Plancher also ran for a score for the Bulls (now 8-5), who took control after Tigers quarterback Kyle Parker left at halftime with broken ribs in the second quarter. South Florida secured its fifth straight eight-win season and earned its first bowl win over a team from a BCS conference.

Backup Tajh Boyd was picked off by JaQuez Jenkins on the first play of the fourth quarter. His 48-yard return set up a Daniels' 8-yard TD run to make it 31-13 and gave the Tigers (now 6-7) their first losing season in 11 years

Dabo Swinney's future remains in question as we head into January...
Here's the wrap from our friends at WSPA-TV

TWTW: Cocks Don't Go Soft Against Clemson

((HT: WSPA-TV))

In a game that most certainly had stinker possibilities written all over it, South Carolina QB Stephen Garcia threw for two touchdowns, Alshon Jeffery had his seventh 100-yard receiving game of the year, and 18th-ranked South Carolina posted its third nine-win season ever with a 29-7 victory over rival Clemson

Now all they have to worry about is their rematch with Auburn in the Ess-E-Cee title game in Atlanta next weekend...

Good luck with that...
Here's your highlights of the game that they spotted Clemson a 7-nothing lead before coming back and taking care of business...

TWTW: FSU beats Clemson on a FG--Go figure

This from the all-time, bad luck field goal team of all-time. The Florida State Seminoles 55-yards away, tied with Clemson as the game is winding down.

They go for the Field Goal and the win. Up steps Dustin Hopkins....who drilled the kick.



Needless to say, it set off celebration, mass hysteria and gave FSU a chance to continue in their quest to play in the blatantly mediocre ACC Championship game.

As for Clemson, they fall to 5-5 and will struggle to make a bowl game (for what that is worth).

Here is the postgame with Tallahassee's hero, Dustin Hopkins. Thanks NoleInsider and YouTube:

TWTW: Clemson Win Over NC State Confirms ACC Opinion

((HT: WSPA-TV Greenville))

That they're really all just mediocre right now...

Kyle Parker threw for 214 yards and a TD as Clemson won despite themselves over 25th-ranked NC State 14-13.

The Tigers, now 5-4/3-3 in the ACC, fumbled five times, losing two of them, threw an interception, had a touchdown called back on a holding penalty and missed two short field goals.

How's that for a full day...???

The Tigers even got booed, but wouldn't you...???

The defense held the Wolfpack, now 6-3/3-2 to 275 yards total.

Todd Summers is indoors in front of a monitor...

Tigers Take Down Terps, End Three Game Losing Streak

A year ago the Clemson Tigers were 2-3 after a really, really bad loss to Maryland and then ran off six straight wins to take the ACC Atlantic Division title.

Another year, another early season Tiger tailspin. Clemson came into the Maryland game this year 2-3 and this time hoping a triumph over the Terps would start a win streak.

Mission accomplished at least for one week at Death Valley as Clemson whipped Maryland 31-7 in front of a sea of orange and former super duper star C.J. Spiller.

Spiller was in Tiger Town attending and having his number 28 retired by Clemson.

Here's the highlights from Clemson including head coach Dabo Swinney actually out sprinting C.J. Spiller down the hill. (Thanks WSPA-TV Greenville, South Carolina)



Photo Courtesy: AP

Auburn Survives Clemson In A Classic Game On The Alabama Plains

You have the feeling when Clemson and Auburn mixed it up at Jordan-Hare Stadium this Tiger fight would be a close game. Well it was and both teams wanted to beat the piss out of each other.

Both teams were laying the wood, two lineman, one for each team, had to be carted off the field. Clemson starting quarterback Kyle Parker took a ton of licks and at times didn't know where he was plus was suffering pain throughout his midsection, yet soldiered on.

The Auburn offense struggled much of the first half yet found their mojo in the second half completing the rally with a 27-24 overtime win.

So far this is the best college football game that has been played this season. Auburn can take this win as a huge confidence boost.

Though this looks like another ACC team couldn't get it done outside the conference Clemson stood toe to toe with Auburn however, moral victories are not marked in the win column.

Here are the highlights from the game: (Thanks WVTM-TV, Birmingham,AL)



A game report from WVTM-TV sports director Dan Hawes: (Thanks WVTM-TV)



Here's post game sound with Auburn head coach Gene Chizik. (Thanks WVTM-TV)

Kyle Parker To Return To Clemson, Tiger Paw Fans Are Happy...

You can bet a 8,000 pound weight was lifted off on Dabo Swinney's shoulders when starting quarterback Kyle Parker told him he was returning to Clemson.

I spent the entire day on the Clemson campus today and it was the talk of Tigertown. Whether it was in the various shops in downtown Clemson or in the local restaurant, Parker's decision was welcome news.

"We are very excited to have Kyle back." Swinney said in a statement released by Clemson University. "Whenever you have a returning starter at quarterback who led you to the Atlantic Division title, that is a real plus for your team. He is dynamic athlete who brings a lot of positives to our offense."

"When I talked with him late last night, he was excited to get back and get started."

Parker was in a envious position with plenty of leverage during negotiations. He had set a July 20th deadline as to whether he would play football or not. Parker decided the lure of another season at quarterback is too much.

"I was in a situation where I couldn't make a bad decision." Parker said in a statement. "All my options are still on the table at this point. The only option I have ruled out is playing baseball exclusively for the Colorado Rockies right now. Negotiations will continue with the Rockies, but I will play football at Clemson this fall."

All Clemson Tiger fans are breathing a sigh of relief.

Here's what you are getting back Tiger Paw fans. Parker delivers the winner last year at Miami. (Thanks ESPN on ABC/Youtube.com)



Photo Courtesy: The Greenville News

Brownell Takes Clemson

***BREAKING NEWS****

Clemson University won't be without a basketball coach for long. CBSsports.com reporter Gary Parrish is reporting that the Tigers have found their man.

The new coach will be Brad Brownell, soon to be formerly of Wright State. He apparently was choice #2.

More from Parrish RIGHT HERE

((Brad Brownell//Courtesy: montlakemadness.com))

Brownell has some experience and a very good track record. He began his Head Coaching career at UNC Wilmington where he was 83-40, He moved on to Wright state and has had a lot of success with the Raiders. He will replace Oliver Purnell, who moved on to DePaul just a couple of weeks ago.

We speculated when reporting on Purnell's departure that the Tigers would look for an "Up and Comer" in the coaching ranks and Brownell certainly fits that category. We give props to Terry Don Phillips and the Clemson administration for not trying to over-reach for this hire and we think that this has the potential to be a very good fit.

**UPDATE**- Here's the early part of Brownell's first statement to the Land of the Orange, thanks to our friends at WSPA-TV in Spartanburg...

Remember the part where Phillips officially "pawed" Brownell...?

The new Clemson coach then had the line of the day saying he "wished his wife would paw him every once in a while..."

The HQ knows that FOSG's Pete Yanity and Jane Robelot are looking at this hire with the standard amount of optimism Day Ones usually bring...

Oliver's Twist Is To Restore DePaul Pride, Good Luck. Who Does Clemson Go After?

I'm still shaking my head a day after learning that Oliver Purnell is leaving Clemson, an ACC school on the rise, for DePaul, a flat lined program.

Purnell says he was attracted to the challenge of restoring DePaul's program and making it the college basketball program in the Windy City. Go right ahead.

DePaul was a plump job 20 years ago, now it's irrelevant and way off the radar screen, even in Chicago.

The Clemson campus was shocked by the move. The players learned through a text message.

Athletic director Terry Don Phillips found out from a 1:30 am phone call Monday morning.

Now Clemson is searching for a new head coach for its men's basketball program. OSG sports will keep tradition alive and start the rumor mill, here's some names we have kicked around at the OSG HQ.

Brad Stevens: Hottest coach out there and has ties to the South Carolina upstate.
Stevens’ father, an orthopedic surgeon, did his residency in Greenville, South Carolina and Brad was born in Greenville. Maybe that and the lure of coaching in the ACC might pry Stevens away from Butler but it's a long shot.

Gregg Marshall: He won 7 Big South titles at Winthrop and has Wichita State on the rise in the Missouri Valley Conference. Marshall should be on Terry Don Phillips' short list.

Shaka Smart: Was an assistant at Clemson with Oliver Purnell for a couple of years but has one year of coaching experience at Virginia Commonwealth and it seems when his name is brought up in Tiger town Clemson fans have Larry Shyatt flashbacks. Smart will probably get an interview.

Doug Wojcik: Tulsa has produced some great head coaches (Tubby Smith, Nolan Richardson, Bill Self) and Wojcik has maintained excellence with the Golden Hurricane. Wojcik would be good to talk to.

Scott Drew: Another coach on the rise but his has a great recruiting class coming to Baylor and might want to stay in the Big 12 whose league is as dog eat dog as the ACC. Don't see that one happening.

Al Skinner: Just got fired by Boston College so he's available and had success in the ACC with the Eagles. If Clemson wants to go the retread route then call up Al.

Ben Jacobson: He's a hot commodity leading Northern Iowa to a sweet 16 run which included a shocking win over NCAA Tournament #1 seed Kansas. Jacobson just doesn't seem to be a good fit for an ACC school. He's Big 12 - Big 10 material.

Chris Collins/Steve Wojciechowski: If these two Mike Krzyzewski assistants are ready to make the head coaching move this might be the gig for them. Both know the ACC and both would know how to beat Duke and North Carolina. I would take a long hard look at this pair.

Ron Bradley: He was Clemson's associate head coach under Oliver Purnell and is in the pool of candidates. Bradley was named interim head coach Tuesday. A very long shot.

I'm sure there are other names out there so talk amongst yourselves.

Photo Courtesy; AP

Oliver Purnell to DePaul....Huh?

Okay, give DePaul University credit, they managed to surprise just about everyone this morning when they announced their new head basketball coach. That coach, Oliver Purnell, was the coach at Clemson...in the ACC.

More from chicagobreakingsports.com RIGHT HERE

((Oliver Purnell won't have to wear orange anymore//Courtesy: WYFF-TV))

Well, Purnell in a sense gives DePaul some much needed credibility. He's been in the game as a head coach for 22-plus years with stops at Old Dominion, Radford (where he and I crossed paths), Dayton, Clemson and now heading to Chicago.

He has a reputation as someone who can resurrect a struggling program, a category that DePaul certainly falls into. However, with all of that success he has gone a sterling 0-6 in NCAA Tournament games. He will get almost double what the folks at Clemson were paying him and the "Official" announcement will be Tuesday afternoon.

Here is the story from WYFF-TV in Greeneville, South Carolina.

Steele stays at Clemson...thanks but no thanks...

It appears the reports of Clemson Defensive coordinator Kevin Steele heading to Tennessee to join Derek Dooley's staff were a bit premature.

All the indicators and several published reports said Tuesday it would be happening and there would be an "Official" announcement today. We should know better. How many times did that happen in the Head Coaching search at UT? More than we can count.

Check out the story from The State RIGHT HERE

A more detailed report from Upstatetoday.com RIGHT HERE

((Kevin Steele likes Clemson//Courtesy: Clemson University))

According to reports, Steele, a former Vol player was considering UT's offer when Clemson made a counter offer and after talking to the team, Steele decided to turn down Tennessee's offer and stay at Clemson.

Though a financial incentive was offered, we respect Steele for staying true and not just jumping ship because he could. While we respect the Derek Dooley hire at Tennessee, it looks like he'll have to go elsewhere to help round out his staff

TWTW: So Much For That "Spiller For Heisman" Talk...

((HT: WOLO-TV/Columbia))

37 total yards of offense for someone touted as a Heisman hopeful... but, yes, CJ Spiller did have a very pretty kickoff return for a TD- his 7th and a record...

But that wasn't going to do it for Clemson as they lose to the OBC and South Carolina 34-17...

The Tigers 6-game win streak in the series is kaput...
Here's your wrap from Cole St. Clair at the Fairgrounds...

TWTW: Clemson Upsets 8th-Ranked Miami in OT 40-37

Kyle Parker threw a 26-yard touchdown pass to Jacoby Ford in overtime, giving Clemson a 40-37 win over No. 8 Miami on Saturday night.

Matt Bosher kicked a 22-yard field goal on Miami’s overtime possession, but on third-and-11, Parker’s third TD pass of the night gave the Tigers (4-3, 3-2 Atlantic Coast Conference) their first win over a ranked opponent in nine games—and dealt Miami’s ACC hopes a serious blow.

Jacory Harris threw for two touchdowns for Miami (5-2, 2-2), but also threw three interceptions.

Since the start of the 1985 season, Miami is 136-2 when scoring 34 or more points.

It was the third meeting of these teams since Miami joined the ACC; all three went to overtime, and all three have been won by the road team.

Here's your postgame from our friends at WSPA-TV in Grrenville...

OSG College Football 2009 Predictions: The ACC

Coastal Division

Virginia Tech Hokies
2008 Record: 10-4 Overall, 5-3 In The ACC
Defeated Cincinnati 20-6 In The Orange Bowl

Things To Like About Virginia Tech:

Defense: If defensive coordinator Bud Foster isn’t the best DC in college football then he’s on a very short list. It’s been the most consistent defensive unit year in and year out. The Hokie “D” will be stout again under the direction of Foster.

Things To Not Like About The Hokies:

Offensive Line: It’s been an issue for the last couple of seasons especially in pass protection. The Virginia Tech O-Line allowed 42 sacks last year. They must improve that number in 2009.

Darren Evans Out For The Year: Evans’ ACL tear is a huge loss for the Hokies. He was to be counted on to take most of the workload running the ball. Now the Hokies must rely on two freshman and an inexperienced upper class man at the RB position.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Darren Evans’ ACL injury really puts a down mood on what was and is expected to be a big year at Virginia Tech. Depending on redshirt freshman Ryan Williams, Josh Oglesby or highly regarded freshman David Wilson, an inexperience trio, kind of makes Virginia Tech’s season a crap shoot. I really like Tyrod Taylor who doesn’t have to look over his shoulder now. The QB job is his and Taylor had an excellent spring. Taylor will ride that momentum into the season. There’s pressure right from the get-go opening the season against Alabama in the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, a scenario that bit Clemson in the backside last year and ruined their 2008 season. I didn’t think that will happen to Virginia Tech if they can recover from the blow of losing Darren Evans.

Phil: They have been very inconsistent the past few seasons. This year they should be the class of this conference, but I don’t know that they will be. Losing Evans hurts and though Taylor has potential, he hasn’t done much to this point. They will compete for the conference title and if a couple of guys step up, could win it. Definite Bowl Team.

Nelson: The Evans injury, to understate, is huge. I had initially thought that the BCS berth to the Orange would be clear sailing. But now, I’m not so sure… And it will be interesting to see how Taylor responds to the added pressure behind center and out in open space. I still think the Hokies win the ACC, but the luster is off- for now…

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

2008 Record: 5-3 Overall, 5-3 In The ACC
Lost to LSU 38-3 In The Peach Bowl

Things To Like About Georgia Tech:

Offense: Show me a better big play running back combo than Jonathan Dwyer and Roddy Jones? Every time Dwyer and Jones touch the ball it could go for a bunch of yards.. They were off the charts in Paul Johnson’s offense and will be again in 2009. Watch Demaryuis Thomas because he will catch more balls this year as opposing defenses will no doubt overpursue trying to stop the triple option. Josh Nesbitt is the perfect fit to run this offense as well. The skill players are darn good on the Flats.

Things Not To Like About Georgia Tech:

Defensive Line: The D-line lost 3 outstanding starters in Darryl Richard, Vance Walker and Michael Johnson. The Jackets do return Derrick Morgan at DE and he’s good and will have to carry this unit for a while. This puts pressure on the linebacker and defensive backs.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Georgia Tech won’t sneak up on anyone this season and has the opportunity to be special this year. Yes the defensive line will be a concern but with their offensive firepower 10 wins is reachable. Plus don’t be surprised if the Jackets play in Tampa Bay.

Phil: : These guys will be a very tough out. Coach Johnson’s offense is tough to stop. With a year under his belt, Nesbitt will be much more comfortable with it. Dwyer is the best player in this conference…period. The only question is the “D” and there is enough talent there with Derrick Morgan and Morgan Burnett that they will be fine. This is the best team in the ACC this year.

Nelson: When was the last time that you actually talked about UGA and Georgia Tech in the same sentence- and, by that, I mean “in positives” for both…??? We knew Paul Johnson would bring instant credibility to the Flats, but instant success…? Look for the “North Avenue Technical College” to have another run at the division, another run at UGA, and another run at a New Year’s Bowl. But the Jaybo Shaw injury means Josh Nesbitt MUST remain healthy…

Miami Hurricanes

2008 Record: 7-6 Overall, 4-4 In The ACC
Lost To California 24-17 In The Emerald Bowl

Things To Like About Miami:

Young Talent: Randy Shannon has had 2 great recruiting classes and that should begin bearing fruit this season. Sophomore QB Jacory Harris is the key on offense. Harris’ job will be to get the ball to Miami’s offensive playmakers and the Hurricanes have a few, RB Greg Cooper, WR Travis Benjamin, etc. Harris doesn’t have to be Vinny Testaverde or even Gino Toretta. Just grasp enough of the offense to distribute the ball. The defense has a stud in Sophomore LB Sam Spence.

Things To Not Like About Miami:

Schedule: The first 4 games on the schedule is a doozy for the young Hurricanes who get thrown into the fire from the git go.. Miami opens at Florida State then hosts Georgia Tech. Then it’s off to Blacksburg, VA for a date with the Virginia Tech Hokies and then Oklahoma at Landshark. A stern test for a young but talented team.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Miami is a year away for being well, Miami again. The Hurricanes will take the punishment at the beginning and we will see just how talented and mentally tough they are. Barring any injuries Miami should be damn good the 2nd half of the season. They won’t win the Coastal but they will be close and go bowling. Watch out though in 2010.

Phil: Shannon is the right guy to coach here and probably should have been the guy a few years ago. He is building them back into the power that they were. I agree with Wilkie, they will be good, but there best years are still ahead of them. A definite bowl team.

Nelson: When Randy Shannon showed up, the new sheriff was NOT going to put up with any shenanigans at all. It’s his stamp on both sides on the ball now, especially after the dust-up with former OC Patrick Nix. Results are a year or so away, but the team isn’t the young bunch of kids wandering lost anymore. Look for another bowl game this year, but 2010 should really be interesting.

North Carolina Tar Heels

2008 Record: 8-5 Overall, 4-4 In The ACC
Lost To West Virginia 31-30 In The Meineke Car Care Bowl

Things To Like About North Carolina:

Defense: They are talented and there is speed everywhere. Marvin Austin is a man with NFL stardom written all over him. If the Tar Heel front can put more pressure on the QB this season than last, only 11 sacks a year ago from the D-Line, they will be a stout bunch.

Things To Not Like About North Carolina:

Quarterback: T.J. Yates needs to prove his durability and the Tar Heels need for him to step up for the offense to shine.

Wide Receivers: North Carolina lost 4 NFL type receivers from last year. The most experienced receiver returning is Greg Little who was the starting RB at the beginning of 2008. The WR’s are a concern at the start of the year however none of Carolina’s receivers are under 6’2” and they are physical. It may become a strength in the middle of the year.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: I really like this North Carolina team. The defense is fast and talented with some really good players. T.J. Yates is the key on offense. The Tar Heels will compete for the Coastal Division title and if things fall into place they might win it. But the Heels have to go to Virginia Tech to do it and that might be too much.

Phil: Another team on the rise. There are some good players here. Davis has done a good job getting them competitive fast. The defense is stout and Yates is a good QB. They may not be ready for an ACC title, but a winning year and a bowl game is a lock.

Nelson: Butch Davis… Paul Johnson… guys with a fresh perspective on winning in the ACC. And I think the defense will be able to keep the team on the winning side until the offense gets its sea legs. Agreeing with Wilkie, the Tar Heels will be competitive in the Atlantic but the trip to Blacksburg will be the end of a title run. Another bowl here for Butch Davis and a program on the up-swing…

Duke Blue Devils
2008 Record: 4-8 Overall, 1-7 In The ACC

Things To Like About Duke:

Quarterback Thad Lewis: You don’t hear much about Lewis because he plays for Duke but you look at his career numbers and he will leave Durham as one of the best in the league. Lewis has thrown for over 6, 000 yards and thrown 41 TD’s in 3 years. Duke is set at QB and Lewis has a shot of leading the Blue Devils to a bowl game.

Hungary Seniors: The seniors at Duke have gone to hell and back. After a year in David Cutcliffe’s system the senior class truly believe what coach Cutcliffe is telling them, they can go to a bowl this season. Can you think of a senior class that is more deserving of that reward.

Things To Not Like About Duke:

Replacing Talented Players: Duke suffered heavy losses in talent from 2008. Michael Tauiliili lead the ACC and was 3rd nationally in tackles, Eron Riley was Duke’s big play receiver and 3 starters on the offensive line are gone. Duke isn’t at the level to reload and those will be tough losses.

OSG’s Take

Wilkie: I admit it, I will be open cheering for Duke this year. Spend some time with David Cutcliffe and you to will want to run through a wall for him. My heart wants the Blue Devils to go to a bowl and it will take 7 wins to do it. If the offense reaches it’s potential and if the front 7 is as stingy has it appears on paper it might happen.

Phil: Again, a good coach and the right guy for the situation. They aren’t ready to play with the big boys yet, but they will be soon. There is some talent here and they aren’t the pushover they’ve been in the past. I don’t think the 7 win thing will be doable this year, but they will be close to .500 and a tough out for whoever they play.

Nelson: Coach Cut is the right guy to get Duke competitive. But without the athlete that the other teams have in the Conference, he’s a fun team to watch even if the wins aren’t there. They’ll be the team you can’t get rid of until half-way in the 4th quarter most of the year. You just wonder how much fight there is in the Devils… I think more than people think there is…

Virginia Cavaliers
2008 Record: 5-7 Overall, 3-5 In The ACC

Things To Like About Virginia:

Vic Hall: He is definitely the Vic-of-all-trades. Hall is the leading returning tackler and set a school record with five forced fumbles. Hall returns punts and now he will be the starting QB. If UVA has 11 Vic Hall clones on each side of the ball and special teams the Cavaliers would be the favorite in the ACC Coastal Division.

Secondary: ACC QB’s you have been warned, the UVA secondary will be great and perhaps one of the best in the ACC. They are fast and can cover. I recommend to ACC QB’s to avoid throwing in Ras-I Dowling’s zip code. He’s got NFL scouts salivating. That group is so good it could let a front line talent a corner like Vic Hall concentrate on offense.

Things To Not Like About Virginia:

Where To Start: The offense was dead last in the ACC in total offense and had trouble just scoring. The passing game was horrible in 2008. On defense the Wahoos lost their top 3 tacklers.
OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Al Groh’s backside might be very warm this year and Groh might not give you warm and fuzzy’s but I contend that if someone else coached the 2008 UVA Cavaliers they would have been lucky to win 2 games. Groh can flat out coach football and he maxed out the ‘Hoos last year and then some. All I can say is remember the 2007 team Cavalier fans, UVA wasn’t expected to do anything and ended up going to a bowl. Maxing out this team might mean 6 wins and a bowl.

Phil: : I don’t get what happened to this team. They were very good for a long time and last year they were tough to watch. I don’t think they will be any better this year. While Hall is a great athlete, there aren’t enough guys of that caliber for them to be a threat…to anyone. I say 3 wins and Al Groh is done.

Nelson: I’m still wondering why Al Groh is coach at UVa… the immediate reason is that he had his own son fall on the sword for a lackluster offense. He won’t have anyone else to blame for any failures in 2009, and no one will accept the blame from anyone else. Anything less than a .500 season will mean the end of an era for a coach.

Coastal Division Champion:

Wilkie: Georgia Tech

Phil: Georgia Tech

Nelson: Virginia Tech

Atlantic Division

Clemson Tigers

2008 Record: 7-6 Overall, 4-4 In The ACC
Lost To Nebraska 26-21 In The Gator Bowl

Things To Like About Clemson:

Speed On Offense: WR Jacoby Ford is super fast. Ford is the reigning NCAA Indoor Champion in the 60 meters plus he has a pair of soft hands. Ford can make big plays and so can C.J. Spiller, who has the backfield all to himself this year with James Davis graduated. A Heisman campaign has begun for Spiller, not sure that’s going to happen but he will get his yards this year.

Defense: 8 starters return and this Tiger “D” has the chance to be the best in the ACC. Both CB’s ,Crezdon Butler and Chris Chancellor, return and they are damn good.

Things To Not Like About Clemson:

Quarterback: It’s not that they aren’t talented it’s just who do you pick. Willy Korn was a 5-star recruit battling Kyle Parker for the starting job. Both can sling it, accurate and can be mobile in the pocket. Plus both lack experience.

Offensive Line: The good news is that the 2 freshman that started on the O-Line last year are sophomores now. They will need to improve with their pass protection this year and cut down on the sacks allowed.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Dabo Swinney clearly won the hearts and minds of Clemson fans and players as the interim head coach and now the gig is his. His fire and enthusiasm is infectious and his Tigers all “all in”. I really like this team in the Atlantic Division.

Phil: They should be better just because the turmoil will be behind them. Despite losing James Davis, there is plenty of talent here. Swinney seems to be a good fit as coach too. I think they won’t be as good as Clemson fans think they should be, but they will be decent. Definite Bowl Team.

Nelson: A little Dabo will do ya, but how much will a lot of Dabo do…? The easiest solution for the offense is for the QB to turn around- and not throw it EVER. They need to ride CJ Spiller as far as he will go, and let the defense pin its ears back and tee off on anyone and everyone. I think it’ll be a really fun year in Death Valley- until the ACC title game.

North Carolina State Wolfpack

2008 Record 6-7 Overall, 4-4 In The ACC
Lost To Rutgers 29-23 In The Papajohns.com Bowl

Things To Like About NC State:

Quarterbacks: Russell Wilson is the most dynamic quarterback in the ACC. Wilson makes the Wolfpack offense move and will be a favorite for ACC Player of the Year as a sophomore. Should Wilson go down with an injury then NC State has a very capable back-up in Mike Glennon who was heavily recruited out of high school.

Runnng Backs: Jamelle Eugene and Toney Baker form a pretty formable running back combo. Baker is back after sitting out last season with a knee injury.

Things To Not Like About NC State:

Defense: This wouldn’t have been a concern at all until Nate Irving’s car accident in June. Irving is sitting out this year so that’s a huge blow to the Wolfpack defense.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: I really liked NC State this year until Nate Irving’s car accident. That makes their defense a little suspect even though they have some good players that are fundamentally sound. The offense will be terrific with Russell Wilson leading the way. If the defense adjusts to life without Nate Irving NC State may be on the way to Tampa Bay.

Phil: Tom O’Brien has done a great job making the ‘Pack competitive again. There is talent in a lot of places. Wilson, Baker and Eugene make them a strong offense and as long as someone steps up on “D”, they will be fine. Possible conference title for these guys if they stay healthy.

Nelson: I’m thinking the latter on NC State. The Wolfpack may score a lot of points, but I think they’ll give a lot of points up as well. Slight improvement over last year, but they won’t be playing anywhere close to New Year’s…

Florida State Seminoles

2008 Record: 9-4 Overall, 5-3 In The ACC
Defeated Wisconsin 42-13 In The Champs Sports Bowl

Things To Like About Florida State:

Offensive Line: This group has jelled into the best in the ACC. The Seminole running game should benefit.

Things To Not Like About Florida State:

Receivers: Hard hit by graduation though the FSU has good young talent in Bert Reed and Taiwan Easterling who were productive last year as freshman. This year Christian Ponder will have to rely on them for big plays…. or maybe Ponder will throw to the Tight End.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: I really like this FSU team. Christian Ponder has the QB job, the running game is sound and though the defense lost some big time talent they should just reload. Plus I never bet against a Mickey Andrews coached defense. The Seminoles should make major strides this year of being relevant again.

Phil: Another maddingly inconsistent team. They should be better, but I wonder if they will be. Ponder needs to kick it up to the next level in order for them to be successful. I don’t think they will ever be at the level they were seemingly a few years ago, but they will be a winning team again this season. No title, but a bowl game.

Nelson: The Seminoles have been bordering mediocre and irrelevant in the national title picture for six years now. A lot of alums have lost patience with the team and the cloud hovering over the 14 wins-in-question is trying what nerve is left. If there aren’t serious, and I mean SERIOUS strides back to the teams of yesteryear, there may be a revolt. Jimbo Fisher is still waiting in the wings, $5-million buyout penalty in hand, to take over for Bobby Bowden. If the NCAA wipes those wins off the books, both Bowden and Mickey Andrews will ride off into an uncomfortable sunset.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons

2008 Record: 8-5 Overall, 4-4 In The ACC
Defeated Navy 29-19 In The EagleBank Bowl

Things To Like About Wake Forest:

Riley Skinner: You can have your Tim Tebow’s, Colt McCoy’s or Sam Bradford’s, I’ll take Riley Skinner on my team anytime. All Skinner does is put his team in a position to win and he has won more often than any Wake Forest QB. Skinner has led the Demon Deacons to four 4th quarter wins plus he is the most accurate passer in ACC history.

Things To Not Like About Wake Forest:

Inexperience On Defense: The Deacon Defense lost some tremendous talent on defense including Aaron Curry. Only 4 returning starters return on defense so it’s a work in progress.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: What does Wake Forest need to do to earn respect? The Deacs have proven they can win on a consistent basis in the ACC and Jim Grobe hasn’t bolted for a big time job (and Grobe has had his opportunities.) Yes the defense suffered key losses but should get better game by game. The offense rarely makes mistakes and has some playmakers. Do I think Wake Forest will win the Atlantic Division? Probably not, but they will be in the mix.

Phil: How many years has Skinner been the QB here? Six? That said, he is pretty good and will keep them competitive this year. They are a team in transistion though. They will be solid, maybe even a winning season, but not much more than that.

Nelson: Isn’t Riley Skinner, like, 32-years-old or something…? He’ll need every bit of that experience to get Wake in position for an early winning start. If he can hold off the defensive growing pains, they’ll be another bowl-bound team.

Maryland Terrapins

2008 Record: 8-5 Overall, 4-4 In The ACC
Defeated Nevada 42-35 In The Humanitarian Bowl

Things To Like About Maryland:

Running Backs: Da'Rel Scott had some big games last year especially in the Humanitarian Bowl where he rushed for 174 yards in just 21 minutes of playing time. Devin Meggett has the bloodlines, his dad Dave was Bill Parcells’ favorite RB in the NFL. With Morgan Green Maryland has 3 quality RB’s in their stable.

Things To Not Like About Maryland:

Defense: The Terps return 4 starters on a defense that really wasn’t that good last year. Let’s see what new defensive coordinator Don Brown can do.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: Maryland has some great skill players on offense but after that there are many issues. With that said, head coach Ralph Friedgen loves this 2009 team. He told me at ACC Football Kickoff that this team didn’t have a bad practice this spring. Maybe the Terps will surprise this year but to me 6 wins is the max.

Phil: Limited success. There is enough talent to win, but not win big. There is some rebuilding that needs to be done. .500 will be a stretch, but you never know.

Nelson: It wouldn’t surprise me if Maryland wins their games with low scores and the bulk of possession time. But if the offense sputters, that means the defense stays out there too long and gives up too many points. A .500 season sounds about right.

Boston College Eagles

2008 Record: 9-5 Overall, 5-3 In The ACC
Lost To Vanderbilt 16-14 In The Music City Bowl

Things To Like About Boston College:

Offensive Line: Come on, it’s Boston College. They are entitled to have a great offensive line and they do again this year.

Things To Not Like About Boston College:

Quarterback: Who’s it gonna be? The trio that are competing consist of a redshirt freshman, a JUCO transfer and a newcomer/ex minor league baseball player. Not much experience there.

OSG’s Take:

Wilkie: It might be a long year on the Heights this year however, I wouldn’t count out a Frank Spaziani coached defense. Oh, by the way, he’s the new head coach at B.C. It’s obvious the Eagles won’t go to their third ACC Championship Game in a row and 5 wins is probably about it.

Phil: Again, rebuilding is the key word here. There are way too many holes. They won’t be very competitive; there just isn’t enough talent around. Bottom of the conference.

Nelson: Spaz! Spaz! Spaz! Growing pains… growing pains… growing pains. Maybe another .500 team in the ACC. Give it a few years for Spaz to get the team to be truly his…

Atlantic Division Champion:

Wilkie: NC State

Phil: NC State

Nelson: Clemson

OSG’s Predictions On The ACC:

ACC Champion:

Wilkie: Georgia Tech

Phil: Georgia Tech

Nelson: Virginia Tech

ACC’s Best Offensive Player:

Wilkie: Jonathan Dwyer – Georgia Tech

Phil: Jonathan Dwyer – Georgia Tech

Nelson: CJ Spiller- Clemson

ACC’s Best Defensive Player:

Wilkie: Vince Oghobaase - Duke

Phil: Morgan Burnett – Georgia Tech

Nelson: Ras-I Dowling- Virginia

A Little Dabo Will Do Ya

And, once again, falling in line with what we had surmised after his 4-2 run to the end of the regular season, Dabo Swinney ((pictured, thanks Clemson University Sports Information)) was named the new head football coach at Clemson University.

From our friends at WYFF-TV after Swinney put on the ceremonial orange blazer given to him by Athletic Director Terry Don Phillips:

Swinney said that he is not usually emotional, but he said, "I guess I hadn't had a chance to be emotional until today."

He stopped repeatedly throughout his acceptance speech, and his voice cracked with emotion. He said he would take the platform he has been given and would "thank God."

He said, "There's really only one reason that an ole boy from Pelham, Alabama is sitting in front of you today -- and that's the grace of God."

Swinney went on to thank a long list of people that included the Clemson player and coaches, other coaches who have influenced him through the years, and his wife Kathleen and sons; Will, Drew and Clay. In his thanks, Swinney acknowledged Tommy Bowden, who he replaced after he resigned October 13.

He said it was "an honor to build on the foundation (Bowden) left behind."

On Monday, Swinney said, "To be here as the coach of Clemson, that doesn't just happen." He said, "The secret to success is put your eyes on the Lord, believe in yourself, and don't quit."

The 39-year-old has been with the Tigers since 2003. For the first 5 and a half years he was the wide receivers' coach.He is the 25th head football coach in Clemson history.

It's expected that Swinney will be paid at least $1 million a year.

Huzzahs to "That Boy..." from those of us here at OSG HQ

Swinney Nails Audition, Should Be Clemson's New Coach

Dabo Swinney got a 6 game audition as interim head coach of the Clemson Tigers and I would say he nailed it. With the Tigers 31-14 win over in-state rival South Carolina Saturday, Clemson became bowl eligible with a 7-5 record but most importantly, 4-2 in with Swinney calling the shots. Today at Death Valley the fans in unison cheered "Dabo" and "Dabo Swinney" as the final seconds clicked off the clock and the Tiger players gave Swinney a victory ride.

Swinney didn't play it safe once Tommy Bowden left and he took over. Swinney took the bull by the horns getting rid of offensive coordinator Rob Spence the same day Bowden resigned and taking charge of the offense. Clemson's playmakers James Davis, C.J. Spiller & Aaron Kelly got the ball in their hands. The young offensive line, which Bowden worried about before the season kicked off, has thrived under the confident leadership of Swinney.

In short, a program that was hinging on a disastrous season in October has won 4 of their last 5 games and going to a bowl game.

Later this week, Swinney will interview for the head coaching position at Clemson. That seems like a formality. The Tigers have their man already.

It is of OSG's opinion that Dabo Swinney will become the head coach of Clemson.

Photo Courtesy: Bart Boatwright/The Greenville News