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Ranking the ACC Units: Linebackers

Jeffrey Fann

Scribe Written on June 26, 2009

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CHAPEL HILL, NC - NOVEMBER 22: Matt Merletti #25 of the North Carolina Tar Heels carries the American Flag as he leads his team before the start of their game against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Kenan Stadium on November 22, 2008 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

(Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

Part six of the ACC Unit rankings series looks at the rankings of the Linebackers units of each ACC team.

It's a real shame that Mark Herzlich of Boston College will most unlikely be unavailable this season, due to his cancer diagnosis. He is such a good player; he would have made the Eagles a top 5 team on this linebacker list. We continue to wish him a speedy recovery.

Check out the completed rankings.

Running Backs
Quarterbacks
Wide Receivers\Tight Ends
Offensive Line
Defensive Line
Linebackers
Defensive Backs
Special Teams
Full Team

1. North Carolina Tar Heels

The Heels had the No. 1 defensive line in the ACC, now they have the No. 1 linebackers in the ACC. Obviously, North Carolina now can claim the best front 7 in the ACC going into the 2009 season.

Junior Quan Sturdivant led the nation in solo tackles with 87 and will play the middle. 6-3 230 lbs junior Bruce Carter will man the strong side.

The Heels have plenty of young talent to provide depth. Sophomore Zach Brown is the likely starter at the weakside linebacker position. Sophomore Herman Davidson and four-star freshman Kevin Reddick will compete for playing time.

2. Florida State Seminoles

Senior Dekoda Watson, a pre-season All-ACC pick, is the leader of Seminoles linebacking crew. A potential first round pick Watson will provide leadership and experience to a young but talented group.

Sophomore Nigel Bradham, a five-star recruit from a couple of years ago, starts at the weakside. Kendal Smith, the starter in the middle, was a four star recruit from three years ago.

Vince Williams and Nigel Carr, a couple of top LB recruits from 2008 provide depth. Maurice Harris was arrested June 22 and was suspended by the Noles, leaving his status for the upcoming season in question.

3. North Carolina State Wolfpack

The Wolfpack have a star at linebacker as well. He is junior Nate Irving. NC State coaches call Irving the heart and soul of the defense.

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This article is also featured on All About Sports

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written on June 26, 2009 Rankings/List

Bleacher Report has a featured columnist opening for UNC Football.

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