Bleacher Report - Articles by Sam Schmieder Mencher

It's Never Too Early To Talk Some ACC Hoops

Sam Schmieder Mencher — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 20:17:14 -0400

With a little over two weeks until the start of College Basketball, its time to start talking some hoops. If you live in ACC country you know that hoops season is perhaps the pinnacle of the year. Let's take a look at some of things that we're going to see this season in the ACC.

First let's take a look at some of the story-lines this year in the ACC.

1. Fabulous Freshman

The ACC sports 21 of the top 100 ESPNU freshman for the 2009 class. That's more than one of every five players going to the ACC. This shows us that the future of the ACC might be even brighter than we have seen of late.

The top ACC class was of course in Chapel Hill, where the Tar Heels reloaded with five top 100 recruits. The Yellow Jackets also had a monster class that is expected to make a huge impact right away.

Perhaps the most overlooked freshman class in the ACC was Clemson's. They brought in four top 150 recruits, including two top 30 recruits in Milton Jennings and Noel Johnson, making this perhaps the greatest class in their history.

2. Some Leave Early, Some Stay

Perhaps the greatest losses of early entries will be felt in Chapel Hill and Winston Salem, where the Tar Heels lost star point guard Ty Lawson, and the Deamon Deacons lost James Johnson and Jeff Teague. On the other hand both programs should feel optimistic with who returns and the freshman classes.

3. What Should We Think of the Dukies?

The Blue Devils have made a habit of fading in the tournament the last few years, and alot of it may have to do with their lack of athleticism.

The sharp shooting Dukies can win on any given night if they get a barrage of three-pointer's or are playing at Cameron Indoor, but it seems they can't compete with the bigger more physical teams game in game out.

The transfer of Elliot Williams, perhaps their most athletic player other than Gerald Henderson who left for the NBA, leaves Duke searching for the athleticism. The late recruitment Andre Dawkins will provide some help, as will the added height of their other two freshmen.

4. The Parity of the ACC Will No Longer Be Only in Football.

This season is perhaps the most evenly talented ACC I can ever remember. Although the talent might be higher in some places, experience and coaching seems to make up for it in other places.

To start the season it is unreasonable to think that any of the 12 teams won't at least have a dream of playing in the big dance. While there might be a few more questions for some teams, there is a huge muddle at the middle of the ACC and it should provide for an amazing season.

Who Are the Best Players?

First Team All-ACC

Ed Davis, UNC

Trevor Booker, Clemson

Grevis Vasquez, Maryland

Al-Farouq Aminu, Wake Forest

Kyle Singler, Duke

Second Team All-ACC

Malcolm Delaney, Virginia Tech

Gani Lawal, Georgia Tech

Derrick Favors, Georgia Tech

Deon Thompson, UNC

Soloman Alabi, FSU

Third Team All-ACC

Jon Scheyer, Duke

Ish Smith, Wake Forest

Dwayne Collins, Miami

Jeff Allen, Virginia Tech

Demontez Stitt, Clemson

All Freshman First Team

Derrick Favors, Georgia Tech

Mason Plumlee, Duke

Milton Jennings, Clemson

Jon Henson, UNC

Michael Snaer, FSU

All Freshman Second Team

Ryan Kelly, Duke

Noel Johnson, Clemson

Andre Dawkins, Duke

Dexter Strickland, UNC

Ari Stewart, Wake Forest

A Rundown of the Teams:

It is a little too early and difficult to decide how the ACC will rank, but here is a rundown of the teams and the best and worst case scenarios.

Boston College: The Eagles lost one player from last year's tournament team. Unfortunately it was Tyrese Rice. Rice might have been the leader and best player for the Eagles over the last few years, but it was the players that surround him that make the future bright.

The Eagles only have one senior this season, and need to find more consistent three-point shooting if they want to make it two years in a row dancing.

Key OOC games: vs. St. Joe's, vs. Purdue, at Michigan, at Providence, Rhode Island, South Carolina

Worst Case Scenario: The Eagles find losing Rice harder than thought and can't seem to get enough good victories to warrant a NCAA berth and end up in the NIT.

Best Case Scenario: The youthful core from last year continues to grow up and no one remembers Rice at the end of the year as the Eagles make an unexpected run to the Sweet 16.

Clemson: The Tigers have gotten slack for finishing slow the last few years, but they really have only twice. This year might be opposite of that, as the Tigers will rely on the strongest class in school history to join low block master Trevor Booker. The Tigers have a much tougher schedule but this is perhaps the most talented group under Purnell.

Key OOC games: vs. Texas A&M, vs. West Virginia/Portland, vs. UCLA/Butler/Minnesota, South Carolina, Illinois

Worst Case Scenario: The Tiger youth doesn't come together so fast and they struggle at times to deal with speedy teams; they sneak into the tournament but lose again in the first round.

Best Case Scenario: The most talented team in Tigertown lives up to it and delivers as they prove to be a top 15 team and advance to the Sweet 16.

Duke: The Blue Devils have been haunted by the lack of height and athleticism over the last few years. This year they add a little bit of both, but not together. The Blue Devils will miss Gerald Henderson more than you think, but will show signs of turning a corner as they look like a bigger team down low with the freshman additions.

Key OOC games: NIT games, at Wisconsin, St. John's, vs. Gonzaga, vs. Iowa St, at Georgetown

Worst Case Scenario: The Blue Devils prove too un-athletic and not physical inside and are beaten by the teams who are. They do plenty to make the tournament as a seven seed, but are upset in the first round and questions swirl about the future of the program.

Best Case Scenario: The freshman come up big and add what was needed to the core of returning players. The Dukies win the ACC and advance to the Final Four before getting downed by the eventual National Champion.

Florida State: The 'Noles lose their key player much like Boston College, but the amount of talent leftover might even be better. With another great freshman class, Leonard Hamilton has the 'Noles thinking another solid NCAA berth.

Key OCC games: at Florida, vs. Baylor/Alabama, at Ohio State, Auburn

Worst Case Scenario: The 'Noles don't mesh and they underachieve again, barely miss the tournament, and end up in the NIT.

Best Case Scenario: The freshmen add more to the huge lineup they have and the team continues to grow after a great season last year. They end up making an NCAA run to the Elite 8.

Georgia Tech: The Yellow Jackets' freshman class highlighted by top recruit Derrick Favors gives them hope of returning to the NCAA tournament again this season. The Jackets also return a host of players who showed lots of promise in what was an underachieving last season.

Honestly this team has top 10 talent, and remind me of a lot of Wake Forest last season, if you want to take that as a positive or a negative.

Key OOC games: vs. Dayton, vs. Villanova, vs. Kansas State/Indiana, USC, at Charlotte, at Georgia

Worst Case Scenario: The Jackets' history of underachieving with loads of talent continues under Paul Hewitt; they improve from last year but only enough to see the NIT.

Best Case Scenario: The Jackets have the talent to compete with anyone in the ACC and around the country and it shows. They are the biggest turnaround in one season we can remember and win the ACC and advance to the Final Four.

Maryland: The Terps are feeling good coming off an NCAA berth and the return of their star Grevis Vasquez. They don't lose much from last year, but were perhaps the most inconsistent team in the ACC last season. The reason might be for the height, or lack thereof.

The other might just be Vasquez, who can carry the Terps, but if he's not on then they can look lost. The Terps have been hyped as a top 25 team for this coming season and a contender in the ACC, but only time will tell if they can live up to those expectations.

Key OOC games: vs. Vandy/Cincinnati, at Indiana, vs. Villanova

Worst Case Scenario: The Terps look like the team that got crushed at times last year, and they can't find the big wins that they did to reach the tournament last year. They fail to reach the tournament and the Gary Williams talk resurfaces.

Best Case Scenario: The Terps live up to the hype and are a top 15 team; they reach the tournament, and make a run to the Sweet 16.

Miami: The Hurricanes lose their sharp shooter Jack McClinton, who carried them at times last year. The Hurricanes' recruiting has picked up quite well the last couple of years and they will rely on some young guys to carry them this year.

The team underachieved and disappointed last year, so for them to make noise they'll have to turn it around fast.

Key OOC games: vs. Penn State, Minnesota

Worst Case Scenario: The freshmen prove too young to help this team who can't click again this season. They drop to the bottom of the ACC and are a borderline NIT team.

Best Case Scenario: The Hurricanes end up as the surprise team of the ACC, they have plenty of young talent, and Frank Haith gets them to come together early and they end up sneaking in the big dance.

North Carolina: The Tar Heels are back with a lot less experience but just as much talent. They will rely heavily on guys who haven't see the court before, or haven't started before. You know that they are just building up for another National Championship run, just maybe not this year.

They have the talent to compete with anyone out there but it will be key for them to come together and develop a more low post oriented team for this season.

Key OOC games: vs. Ohio State, vs. Cal/Syracuse, Michigan State, at Kentucky, vs. Texas, Rutgers

Worst Case Scenario: The Tar Heels look really young and the freshman can't seem to find it. They finish fourth in the ACC and make the tournament before a second round upset loss.

Best Case Scenario: The Tar Heels just reload again and after a few early losses end up as a No. 1 seed in the tourney, where they make another Final Four appearance, but can't make it back to back National Championships.

NC State: The Wolfpack haven't had a great last few years, but last season started to show signs of getting closer to being back. They have a great freshman class coming in and Sidney Lowe needs to get it done this year if he wants to keep his job in Raleigh.

Key OOC games: vs. Auburn, Northwestern, at Marquette, at Arizona, Florida

Worst Case Scenario: Everything seems the same in Raleigh, and the Wolfpack are at the bottom of the ACC, failing to even make an NIT appearence.

Best Case Scenario: The Wolfpack finally click and they make a run and sneak into the tournament as a bubble team.

Virginia: The Cavaliers finally moved in a new direction this season as they hired Tony Bennent. Bennett, known for his defensive and half court oriented teams, will be successful at Virginia; it's just a matter of how fast. They had a lot of young talent on the court last season and we'll see if Bennett can utilize it better.

Key OOC games: South Florida, vs Stanford, vs Cleveland St, Penn State, at Auburn

Worst Case Scenario: The Cavs look too young and they can't learn Bennett's system that fast and fall to the bottom of the ACC

Best Case Scenario: The team is an instant success in Bennett's system and they become the pest of the ACC, and make the big dance.

Virginia Tech: The Hokies have plenty of talent back but they have had lots of problems early in the year and can't seem to quite make up for it come selection Sunday. The Hokies will try to avoid another early season swoon this year, and try to finally break through to the tournament for the first time in a few years.

Key OOC games: vs. Temple, at Iowa, Georgia, at Penn State, vs. Seton Hall

Worst Case Scenario: The same old tune is written for the Hokies and the loss of Vassallo is worse than they thought. They have some moments where they look great but another NIT.

Best Case Scenario: The Hokies finally don't trip early, and they play solid in conference, and make the trip to the big dance and win a game.

Wake Forest: The team that lost the most talent from a year ago might have been Wake Forest, but doesn't mean there isn't a lot leftover. The Deacs looked like a legit Final Four team in January, but then faltered down the stretch.

Dino Gaudio stills needs to prove himself and by sending this Deacon team to the tournament, it might be just what the doctor ordered.

Key OOC games: at Purdue, at Gonzaga, Xavier

Worst Case Scenario: The Deacons of February and March continue to show in Winston-Salem and they don't do enough and end up in the NIT.

Best Case Scenario: The Deacons still have enough talent to be a top 25 team and they prove it, by finishing third in the ACC and making it to the Sweet 16.

Bowl Season: Who Plays Who and Who Wins?

Sam Schmieder Mencher — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:42:09 -0400

Well here is a crazy and long look ahead to the bowl season and what I think might happen as we wrap up the season we are just beginning. It's time to see who goes home happy for the winter, and who leaves with a bad taste in their mouth. Here goes the predictions, final standings and polls:

Predictions:

(Las Vegas Bowl)

Oregon St 17, Utah 14

(Poinsettia Bowl)

Arizona 27, Air Force 17

(Emerald Bowl)

NC State 27, Stanford 20

(Meineke Car Care Bowl)

Miami 24, Pittsburgh 17

(Music City Bowl)

Florida State 31, South Carolina 17

(Independence Bowl)

Arkansas 28, Colorado 24

(Champs Sports Bowl)

UNC 20, Illinois 14

(Holiday Bowl)

California 37, Oklahoma State 31

(Humanitarian Bowl)

BYU 34, Boise State 31

(Sun Bowl)

Oregon 34, Missouri 24

(Insight Bowl)

Minnesota 23, Texas A&M 17

(Chick-Fil-A-Bowl)

Clemson 24, Tennessee 17

(Outback Bowl)

LSU 27, Michigan State 13

(Capital One Bowl)

Ole Miss 23, Iowa 14

(Gator Bowl)

Georgia Tech 31, Notre Dame 21

(Cotton Bowl)

Georgia 27, Nebraska 20

(Papa John's.com Bowl)

South Florida 21, Kentucky 17

(Alamo Bowl)

Kansas 35, Wisconsin 21

(Rose Bowl)

USC 34, Penn State 20

(Sugar Bowl)

Alabama 24, TCU 17

(Fiesta Bowl)

Oklahoma 41, Ohio State 27

(Orange Bowl)

Virginia Tech 20, West Virginia 13

(BCS National Championship)

Florida 34, Texas 24

NON-BCS

1. BYU 11-2

2. Boise State 11-2

3. TCU 11-2

4. Utah 9-4

5. Notre Dame 8-5

PAC TEN

1. USC 12-1 (8-1)

2. California 11-2 (7-2)

3. Oregon 11-2 (7-2)

4. Oregon St 10-3 (6-3)

5. Arizona 7-6 (4-5)

6. Stanford 6-7 (5-4)

7. Arizona St 6-7 (4-5)

8. UCLA 5-7 (3-6)

9. Washington 3-9 (2-7)

10. Wash State 2-10 (0-9)

SEC

East

1. Florida 14-0 (9-0)

2. Georgia 10-3 (7-1)

3. Tennessee 8-5 (4-4)

4. South Carolina 6-7 (4-4)

5. Kentucky 7-6 (2-6)

6. Vanderbilt 4-8 (1-7)

West

1. Alabama 12-2 (7-2)

2. LSU 10-3 (5-3)

3. Ole Miss 10-3 (5-3)

4. Auburn 8-5 (3-5)

5. Arkansas 7-6 (2-6)

6. Miss St 2-10 (0-8)

BIG TEN

1. Penn State 11-2 (7-1)

2. Ohio State 10-3 (7-1)

3. Iowa 9-4 (5-3)

4. Wisconsin 9-4 (5-3)

5. Illinois 8-5 (6-2)

6. Minnesota 8-5 (4-4)

7. Michigan 8-5 (3-5)

8. Michigan State 7-6 (4-4)

9. Northwestern 6-6 (2-6)

10. Indiana 4-8 (2-6)

11. Purdue 2-10 (0-8)

BIG 12

North

1. Nebraska 9-5 (6-3)

2. Kansas 9-4 (5-3)

3. Missouri 8-5 (4-4)

4. Colorado 7-6 (4-4)

5. Kansas St 5-7 (2-6)

6. Iowa St 3-0 (0-8)

South

1. Texas 12-2 (8-1)

2. Oklahoma 11-2 (7-1)

3. Oklahoma St 10-3 (7-1)

4. Texas A&M 7-6 (3-5)

5. Texas Tech 7-6 (3-5)

6. Baylor 5-7 (2-6)

BIG EAST

1. West Virginia 10-3 (6-1)

2. Rutgers 11-2 (6-1)

3. Pittsburgh 9-4 (5-2)

4. South Florida 9-4 (5-2)

5. Cincinnati 8-5 (3-4)

6. UConn 4-8 (2-5)

7. Louisville 4-8 (1-6)

8. Syracuse 2-10 (0-7)

ACC

Atlantic

1. Clemson 10-4 (6-3)

2. Florida State 9-4 (6-2)

3. NC State 8-5 (4-4)

4. Wake Forest 6-7 (3-5)

5. Maryland 5-7 (2-6)

6. Boston College 5-7 (2-6)

Coastal

1. Virginia Tech 12-2 (8-1)

2. Georgia Tech 11-2 (6-2)

3. North Carolina 10-3 (5-3)

4. Miami 10-3 (5-3)

5. Virginia 3-9 (1-7)

6. Duke 3-9 (0-8)

FINAL POLL:

1. Florida

2. USC

3. Oklahoma

4. Texas

5. Virginia Tech

6. Alabama

7. California

8. Georgia

9. Oregon

10. Georgia Tech

11. Penn State

12. LSU

13. Ohio State

14. Clemson

15. Rutgers

16. BYU

17. Ole Miss

18. Florida State

19. TCU

20. Oklahoma State

21. Oregon State

22. Iowa

23. West Virginia

24. Miami

25. UNC

Just out: Boise State, Utah, South Florida, NC State, Kansas

That's all; hope you enjoyed this ridiculous look ahead at this year's college football season.

College Football Countdown: Top 50 Teams of 2009

Sam Schmieder Mencher — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 17:17:52 -0400

Today I will countdown the Top 50 College Football Teams in 2009. I realize this is only my opinion, but I do have a pretty good knowledge of the College Football landscape.You might see teams ranked higher than others despite having worse records. This is a product of schedules, some teams I think are better than others head to head, but will end up with a worse record. I'd love to hear what you think and I hope I'm looking forward to the season as much as you are.

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The Uneven Schedules Of College Football: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Sam Schmieder Mencher — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 16:04:34 -0400

Each year, the BCS discussion always includes a comparison of schedules that contenders played in. There have been years when a weak schedule can cost a team a trip to the National Championship, or they can mask the true identity of team that makes it to a BCS game.

Looking at the schedules of teams before the season starts can give us an idea of which teams have the cojones to play teams that will make them better, or teams that shy away from non-conference competition in hopes of making a run at a BCS berth.

Some conferences are known for playing tougher schedules than others. For example, teams from the ACC play perhaps the toughest non-conference games, while the Big 10 seems to avoid competition from tough non-league games. Of course in each conference it depends on the schools because there are exceptions.

Here is a look at 10 teams that are trying to fool us with their schedules:

Boston College: Northeastern, Kent State, Central Michigan, @Notre Dame

Michigan: Notre Dame, Western Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Delaware State

Penn State: Akron, Syracuse, Temple, Eastern Illinois

Wisconsin: Northern Illinois, Fresno State, Wofford, Hawaii

Michigan State: Montana State, Central Michigan, @Notre Dame, Western Michigan

Kansas: Northern Colorado, UTEP, Duke, @Southern Mississippi

Texas: UL Monroe, @Wyoming, Central Florida, UTEP

Texas Tech: North Dakota, Rice, @Houston, New Mexico

Florida: Charleston, Troy, Florida International, Florida State

LSU: @Washington, UL Lafayatte, Tulane, Louisana Tech

As you can see, there are some teams on here that are legitimate National Title contenders. While you see teams such as Boston College and Michigan State playing against other contenders like Notre Dame, playing the Irish and three pushovers doesn't impress anyone right now.

A team like Florida is on the list because they should play more highly competitive teams like Florida State, especially when they are reigning national champs.

Last year playing Miami was good enough for Florida, but no mid-level BCS conference teams and their schedule is very unimpressive, even if the Seminoles have a breakout year.

On the other hand here are 10 teams that aren't afraid to play against a little competition:

Oklahoma: BYU, @Miami, Idaho State, Tulsa

Virginia Tech: Nebraska, @East Carolina, vs. Alabama, Marshall

Oregon: Boise State, @Utah, Purdue

Florida State: Florida, @BYU, South Florida, Jacksonville State

Georgia Tech: Georgia, Vanderbilt, Mississippi State, Jacksonville State

Miami: Oklahoma, @South Florida, Central Florida, Florida A&M

West Virginia: East Carolina, Colorado, @Auburn, Liberty, Marshall

UCLA: @Tennessee, Kansas State, @San Diego

California: Maryland, at. Minnesota, Eastern Washington

Georgia: @Oklahoma State, Arizona State, at. Georgia Tech, Tennessee Tech

In this list, we also have some great teams with hopes of reaching the BCS. These teams will have a leg up on any team from the previous section if they have the same record at the end of the year. By challenging themselves, these teams will be better at the end of the season and because of their strength of schedule, they will have an advantage if selected for a bowl game.

Overall, we see teams from every conference each year try and get a leg up on going undefeated or a leg up on actually improving themselves. In my opinion, each team from the SEC, Big 12, Big 10, and ACC, who each have four out of conference games, should have at least two decently challenging games.

I will give more respect to any team that dares to schedule three out of conference games with good competition because they are confident in their teams and aren't afraid of a challenge. In the Pac-10, teams play only three non conference games; so playing one real good game or two middle-of-the-road ones are acceptable.

In the Big East, where they play five non conference games, teams should always play two, and having a third would be good too because the conference is a bit weaker.

Overall it's really disappointing to see a team like Texas, Penn State, or LSU play such a weak schedule when they have hopes of reaching a BCS game. As far as teams like Georgia, Oklahoma, or Virginia Tech, who challenge themselves, I tip my hat to you.

The ACC's Best Intra-Conference Game's Of 2009

Sam Schmieder Mencher — Thu, 28 May 2009 22:42:55 -0400

A follow up to the best non-conference ACC games of 2009, here I will take a look at the best intra-conference games of the coming year.

21. Duke at. Virginia—Oct. 31

Perhaps the honorary worst game of the ACC season, these two teams could be the worst in the conference this coming season. Although both aren't bad and are improving, this game could be the difference between last and possibly a chance at a bowl.

20. Wake Forest at. Duke—Nov. 28

This game is actually interesting because I see this as a golden opportunity for the Blue Devils to win at the end of the year.

19. Virginia Tech at. Virginia—Nov. 28

This is a big time rivalry in the state of Virginia and playing at home this year the Cavaliers are never written off, even against the ACC favorites.

18. North Carolina State at. North Carolina—Nov. 28

Another rivalry, to a lesser extent, could be a big factor in bowl seeding for both teams this year.

17. Maryland at. North Carolina State—Nov. 7

This game could be important to the Atlantic Division race, Maryland might not have hopes of a division title, but State could find the Terps to be a bump in their road.

16. Maryland at. Boston College—Nov. 28

Last year's game was as important as they get, and the Eagles dominated. This time around the game likely will not have the same meaning, but revenge on rival turf will be in order.

15. Clemson at. North Carolina State—Nov. 14

The last two seasons the Tigers have dominated the Wolfpack, but this go around the Wolfpack might be the favorites. The Tigers speed has proven to be the kryptonite of State, but can a new season spell anew for the Pack.

14. Florida State at. Boston College—Oct. 3

The Seminoles should have the upper leg in talent this year, but the Eagles have been the overachieving team of the Atlantic lately. An upset here would likely cause chaos above and beyond that already expected in the ACC.

13. Clemson at. Miami—Oct. 24

This should be a good game that will propel one of these two teams into their divisional races. The loser on the other hand probably loses their shot at an ACC title.

12. North Carolina State at. Virginia Tech—Nov. 21

A late season matchup that could be crucial for each team. A home loss for Tech would possibly ruin their run at a third ACC title in a row, while State will possibly be vying for the title run in the Atlantic.

11. Georgia Tech at Miami—Sept. 17

A Thursday night showdown early in the year. Tech will be coming off a matchup with Clemson, while Miami will be in the middle of a brutal stretch to open the season. This might be Miami's best chance to win in the first four games, but after last year's performance in Atlanta, it hard to believe the Canes can stop the option.

10. Florida State at. North Carolina—Oct. 22

Another Thursday night game, this time in Chapel Hill could be a cooker. Middle of season, and lots on the line, the Tar Heel faithful should be out in plenty of baby blue.

9. Florida State at. Clemson—Nov. 7

The former Bowden Bowl will still feature a pair of rivals in Death Valley. If Clemson can play up to their potential then this game could be for the Atlantic Division title.

8. North Carolina at. Virginia Tech—Oct. 29

And another great Thursday night showdown, which will be a rematch of a great game last year in Chapel Hill. North Carolina should have the athletes on defense to make this another classic.

7. North Carolina at. Georgia Tech—Sept. 26

I see this as a swing game in the Coastal Division, the winner will mostly likely be the only of the two teams with a potential shot at the Coastal division title.

6. Clemson at. Georgia Tech—Sept. 10

Just five days after each team opens with a very winnable matchup this game will most likely set the tone for the rest of the season for both squads. Georgia Tech has dreams of an ACC title, but a trip up here and that might escape after just one game. Clemson on the other hand could pull the huge upset and get confidence to get rolling.

5. North Carolina State at. Florida State—Oct. 31

This is another game that could very well decide the winner of the Atlantic division. With the Noles playing in Tallahassee it could be a tall order for the Wolfpack who have struggled against the Noles for a while.

4. Miami at. Virginia Tech—Sept. 26

Game three of the brutal stretch for the Hurricanes, it is going to be tough for them to leave Blacksburg with a win. The Hokies could be red hot if they can beat the Crimson Tide in the Georgia Dome in week one, but the Hurricanes could easily be trying to avoid a 0-3 start.

3. Miami at. Florida State—Sept. 7

A fun labor day evening special between the two ACC Florida teams. Originally balloted to be a yearly showdown of top five teams, the two schools have looked downward of late. The good news is both should be improved this year, with their sights set on getting back on the national stage.

2. Georgia Tech at. Florida State—Oct. 10

The best inter-divisional matchup of the season could be a preview of the ACC championship game. Unfortunately, the loser here could have their hopes dashed if they don't win in this one.

1. Virginia Tech at. Georgia Tech—Oct. 17

The game on the countdown is a matchup of the possibly the best two teams from the ACC in 2009. Although Virginia Tech is the favorite for the title, the game is being played in Atlanta, Georgia, and if last year's game was a sign of how this one could play out, then we are looking at a classic.

The ACC's Best Stadiums

Sam Schmieder Mencher — Thu, 28 May 2009 01:01:35 -0400

The ACC might not be the best football conference in the land, but they do have some stadiums worth visiting. I will rank the ACC's stadium's from worst to best based on how good the crowd's are, how loud it gets, and also take into account the beauty of the stadium, area and the tailgating. Of course there is no way to measure it and of course I'm sure everyone has a different opinion. Either way, I hope you enjoy my insight into the ACC's football stadium's.

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Best Non-Conference Games of the ACC in 2009

Sam Schmieder Mencher — Tue, 26 May 2009 12:32:34 -0400

Every year the Non-Conference Schedule gives each conference the chance to prove itself against others. Some conferences play harder schedules than others. The ACC historically plays one of the toughest non-conference schedules and this year is no different. I will now count down the best non-conference games of the ACC in 2009.

I'm going to try and cover as many teams as possible, because even the lower profile games are important for a conference's image.

25. Indiana at. Virginia- Oct. 10

If UVA wants a chance at a bowl and respect this year they better take care of cellar dweller Indiana out of the Big Ten. Early Prediction: UVA

24. Georgia Tech at. Vanderbilt- Oct. 31

Another game that is against a big conference, but Georgia Tech should over match the Commodores, even on the road. A must win for GT and the ACC. Early Prediction: GT

23. Stanford at. Wake Forest- Sept. 12

An early season matchup for the Deacons that they should have the edge in, especially playing at home. Early Prediction: Wake

22. Baylor at. Wake Forest- Sept. 5

An improving Baylor team will come to Winston-Salem on the first weekend of the year, but the Deacons home field should give them an edge. Early Prediction: Wake

21. TCU at. Virginia- Sept. 12

TCU should be a top 15 team preseason, and with most of their offense returning the Horned Frogs will travel to Charlottesville as the favorites. Early Prediction: TCU

20. Georgia Tech at. Mississippi State- Oct. 3

A slightly tougher matchup for the Jackets, over the Commodores, but still a game they must win. The Bulldogs will look to revenge the beating they took last year in Atlanta. Early prediction: GT

19. Duke at. Kansas- Sept. 19

This is Duke's only legitimate non-conference opponent and a decent one at that. The Jayhawks are coming off back to back bowl trips, and the Dukies will have their hands full on the road. A win here though, and Duke might be thinking they have a chance at a bowl. Early Prediction: Kansas

18. East Carolina at. North Carolina- Sept. 19

A possible matchup of top 25 teams from NC, this game doesn't quite have the appeal that the VT/ECU matchups does though. The Tar Heels will be at home, and it will be interesting to see how ECU handles them after a tougher end to last season. Early Prediction: UNC

17. Rutgers at. Maryland- Sept. 26

Rutgers should be improved this year, and could fight for the top of the Big East. Maryland will have an opportunity to win this game at home and gain some respect, despite losing alot on defense. Early Prediction: Maryland

16. North Carolina at. UConn- Sept. 12

The Tar Heels will travel to Stoors this time around and will face a UConn team that might not be as good. Despite that UNC must win this game for the ACC because UConn might not be a bowl team this year. Early prediction: UNC

15. Virginia Tech at. East Carolina- Nov. 5

A Thursday night rematch of last years upset. This time around the Hokies will be ready and deeper into the season when they started to get it rolling last year. Early Prediction: Virginia Tech

14. Pittsburgh at. NC State- Sept. 26

NC State had a great finish to last year and expectations are high in Raleigh. Pitt returns a decent amount from a bowl team last year and could challenge for the Big East title. Early Prediction: NC State

13. Boston College at. Notre Dame- Oct. 24

Boston College returns to South Bend again against an improving Irish squad. BC on the other hand might be taking a step back this year, with big losses on both sides of the ball, and their head coach. Early Prediction: Notre Dame

12. South Carolina at. NC State- Sept. 3

This should be a great start to the football season on Thursday night. Expectation will be high and the Wolfpack will look to revenge the beat down they took last year on this same night. Early Prediction: South Carolina

11. South Florida at. Florida State- Sept. 26

The Bulls have high expectations this season and they will travel to Tallahassee for this September matchup. The Seminoles will look to continue their recent non-conference success outside of the Gators. Early Prediction: Florida State

10. Clemson at. South Carolina - Nov. 28

The annual matchup of bitter rivals should be as competitive as ever as they matchup in Columbia this year. Early Prediction: South Carolina

9. Maryland at. California- Sept. 5

Last year the Terps surprised the Bears by thumping them in College Park. This time around the Terps will have to travel all the way across the country and play a very late game. Early Prediction: Cal

8. Miami at. South Florida- Nov. 28

A potentially very tough end of the season game for each team as they might for bowl placement. Hurricanes might have more talent on the field but playing the game in Tampa will be a huge edge to the Bulls. Early Prediction: Miami

7. TCU at. Clemson- Sept. 26

Just two weeks after visiting the Cavaliers in Charlottesville, TCU will return to ACC country and take on the Tigers. A good defensive matchup should be a battle in the trenches in this one. The atmosphere in Death Valley will play big in this one, as the Tiger faithful should be pumped. Early Prediction: Clemson

6. Nebraska at. Virginia Tech- Sept. 19

A rematch from a good game in Nebraska last year. The Hokies stifled the Huskers powerful offensive attack for much of the game and playing at home this year could give them the edge in this one. Early Prediction: Virginia Tech

5. Florida State at. BYU- Sept. 19

An underrated September game, this game has all the signs to be a good one. The Seminoles will have the edge in speed but a rowdy crowd in Utah could make this one very interesting. Early Prediction: FSU

4. Florida State at. Florida- Nov. 28

Last year the Seminoles got battered again by their in state rivals at home. Returning another National Championship caliber team and playing at home doesn't spell good signs for the Noles. Early Prediction: Florida

3. Georgia at. Georgia Tech- Nov. 28

Last year the Yellow Jackets stunned the Bulldogs, who were preseason No. 1. This time around the Jackets will have the senior squad and the benefit of the home crowd. Early Prediction: Georgia Tech

2. Oklahoma at. Miami- Oct. 3

A huge chance for the Hurricanes to prove early on that they are back. Returning nearly everyone from last year and playing at home, a victory would be huge for the ACC. Early Prediction: Oklahoma

1. Virginia Tech vs. Alabama- Sept. 5

The best game of the non-conference slate will be the first weekend in Atlanta. Last year the Tide rolled over Clemson in an early season upset. This time around the Tide will be the favorites in this matchup of preseason top 10 teams.

It might seem unpopular, but I feel an upset brewing here. Tech brings back experience, most of all in the trenches, where the game was won last year. Early Prediction: Virginia Tech

It should be a great season for college football in the ACC and around the country. A few big victories for the conference and respect could come quickly.

The Importance of Offensive Lines: Reflection On a WSJ Article

Sam Schmieder Mencher — Tue, 19 May 2009 17:12:43 -0400

Recently an article appeared in the Wall Street Journal describing the importance of having a veteran offensive line. The correlation between teams with veteran offensive lines and winning games is apparent.

Of course, how veteran your line is doesn't mean it's good, but in most cases in college football, the difference between a freshman lineman and a senior lineman can be the difference between a benchwarmer and a first round draft pick. Many teams in the past have had some amazing talent at the skill positions, but high expectations from stars were debunked by bad play of an offensive line.

On the other hand, some teams with really great lines can make mediocre skill position players look better because they are given time to throw, and holes to run through.

In my opinion, I think the offensive is the most important part of a team, at least offensively. Without at least a decent line, there is no way skill position players can overcome bad play and be consistent winners.

Last year we saw two preseason top 10 teams, Missouri and Clemson, fail because of young, inexperienced, and sometimes downright awful offensive lines. The stars each team possessed at skill positions could help either of the teams overcome the lines and resulted in disappointing seasons, which originally were expected to be punctuated with BCS bowl berths.

In light of this article, I will go through each of the conferences and analyze some of the teams that might be like Clemson and Missouri, while also discussing those who should live up to, or beyond expectations.

I know it's not the absolute best way to judge a team's skill on the line, but statically, it does have some history of being right.

To give you an idea of what kind of scale we are working on here, if you have 50-75 starts returning, that is respectable and about average to above average. Anywhere fro 75 to above 100 and you have a very experienced line coming back. Anything lower than 50 and down to about 20 and we are talking about young lines that might be good one day, but likely spell the signs of a team that is overrated.

First let's look at some teams outside of the major conferences:

Utah, 39 starts returning

BYU, 22

Ball State, 16

Notre Dame, 100

Colorado State, 125

As you can see, all the first three teams saw some great success on the field last year, and that might be attributed to having good lines. Although expectations are lower at all three schools, anyone who might be overly optimistic might want to reconsider.

Notre Dame and Colorado State were both low-end bowl teams last season and could both see continued improvement this season. Notre Dame has a schedule with lots of game against middle of the road teams, which they could all theoretically win if the line turns out to be this good.

Southeastern Conference:

Alabama, 50

Florida, 51

Georgia, 99

Tennessee, 80

LSU, 79

Alabama and Florida are both rather average in terms of their lines, a clear fall from last year when both had very good lines. Although they are just average, it will be interesting to remember as the season rolls on that they won't be as solid up front.

All three had disappointing seasons last year but could rebound this year. Georgia lost its main playmakers, but having the most veteran line in the conference might help the guys who step in find success on the field fast. LSU and Tennessee could see significant jumps in their win totals.

Pac-10 Conference:

USC, 91

Oregon, 20

Oregon State, 37

This clearly shows to me that the Trojans are legitimate national title contenders again. Although they lost a lot, they always have five-star athletes waiting in the wings.

Oregon and Oregon State have high expectations this year, but maybe it's time to curb some of that enthusiasm. Oregon has a lot of skilled players on offense, but as a preseason top 10-15 team, I might look for them to one of our bigger disappointments if our formula holds true.

Big Ten Conference:

Iowa, 98

Penn State, 30

Minnesota, 96

Wisconsin, 49

Michigan State, 47

Ohio State, 62

First off, it looks like Iowa might be poised to be the surprise out of this conference in 2009. Coming off a good end to the '08 campaign, the Hawkeyes could be in the top three of this conference when all is said and done.

Ohio State is right in the middle and should be in the mix for another BCS berth. Minnesota could return to a bowl with a solid line returning. On the other hand, Wisconsin, Michigan State, and especially Penn State might want to curb the optimism.

The Nittany Lions have reason to be hopeful with some of their skill players returning, but they could be a big disappointment if their line struggles.

Big East Conference:

UConn, 91

Rutgers, 83

West Virginia, 25

South Florida, 29

While UConn lost alot from last year, they can bank on a good line and that might be good enough for another bowl appearance. Rutgers could be the surprise of the conference in 2009 as they return a veteran squad. On the other hand, South Florida and West Virginia might struggle as they look to rebuild up front.

Big 12 Conference:

Texas, 91

Oklahoma State, 86

Oklahoma, 29

Kansas, 26

Texas Tech, 52

The powerful offenses in Austin and Stillwater have reason to be hopeful as they both look to be legit top 10 preseason picks. On the other hand, Kansas and Texas Tech could see a fall off next season. Finally, Oklahoma might want to hold off on booking a return trip to the national championship; with a weak offensive line, Oklahoma might even play there way out of a BCS berth.

Atlantic Coast Conference:

Virginia Tech, 100

Florida State, 86

Clemson, 79

Maryland, 27

Miami, 37

NC State, 45

Georgia Tech, 55

Some of the preseason hype around teams like Miami, NC State, and even Georgia Tech might prove to fall short if their lines don't hold true. Although Georgia Tech has 55 starts returning, the option offense makes the line all the more important and dreams of winning the conference might be a bit hopeful.

Maryland could struggle to help out their returning playmakers, while they rebuild on defense. Virginia Tech looks to legitimize their place in preseason top 10s, while Florida State has reason to be favorites in the Atlantic.

Finally, Clemson might be able to find offense to complement the great defense where it couldn't last year, making them a possible surprise out of the ACC.

Overall, nothing is clear about the stats. Because Oklahoma has 29 starts returning doesn't mean they can't win the national championship, nor does it go the other way. It's a fun set of stats that can give hope to those teams that might need some, while it's reason to be cautious for others.

Either way, it'll be a fun season that can't get here soon enough!

Ranking College Football's Best Conferences In 2009

Sam Schmieder Mencher — Mon, 18 May 2009 22:34:01 -0400

Every year one of the most heated conversations in college football is which conference is the best. Although some conferences change year to year, some have better reputations than others. This coming season will see some interesting competition amongst conferences, perhaps the best ever.

In judging conferences, you must not only consider the top teams but the bottom teams. A conference is judged by all of its teams, not just one or two.

11. The Sun Belt Conference

Last season the SBC sent two teams to bowls, with four eligible. Sporting a 14-28 non-conference record, the Sun Belt certainly wasn't filled with teams that were punching bags for the power conferences.

Middle Tennessee State, who finished tied for fifth in the conference, defeated Maryland by 10. Troy nearly beat LSU in Baton Rouge after jumping out to a big lead. They also fought Ohio State and Oklahoma State.

Arkansas State beat Texas A&M. Overall, the conference has a long way to go in terms of earning respectability, but a few wins over power conference teams can go a long way in getting there.

10. The Mid-American Conference

A step up from the Sun Belt, the Mid American conference was highlighted by two stories in 2008.

One: Ball State, who fell one upset defeat shy of an undefeated regular season.

Two: Buffalo, who earned a bowl bid for the first time after upsetting the aforementioned Ball State in the conference title game.

A 22-35 non-conference record is still a long ways off, but the conference was improved last year.

There weren't any marquis wins. But some lower-power conference wins and some close battles with top tier teams showed the conference's potential.

9. The Western Athletic Conference

The clear favorite the last few years has been Boise State, who once again had an undefeated regular season in 2008. The WAC sent five teams to bowls but didn't fare so well. This year might not be as successful for Boise State, but expect the conference to send a hand-full of teams to bowl games again.

8. Conference USA

Last year the highlight of this conference was East Carolina's run at the beginning of the season. Victories over Virginia Tech and West Virginia were impressive, but perhaps product of a team that overachieved a bit at the beginning. Despite that, East Carolina could find their way into the top 25 this season with a vastly experienced bunch.

Another solid team was Tulsa, who was in the top 25 at a time last year before falling to a down Arkansas club. The conference sent six teams to bowls, including the high-powered offense in Houston. This year should be another good year for the conference with East Carolina leading the way.

7. The Mountain West Conference

After the recent success of the Mountain West, many have vouched for the conference to be represented in the BCS. Last year's Utah team made the biggest splash, as they beat Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, leaving them as the only undefeated team in the country.

The success Texas Christian and Brigham Young can't be overlooked, either, as both teams had very good seasons.

This year Utah may not be looking at another BCS berth, but the Utes should field a solid team. BYU always has a good club, and TCU should be the favorite, as they will be ranked in the pre-season top 20.

The conference has had success on the top, but level of competition at the bottom is still not on the same level as the BCS conferences.

6. The Big East Conference

Last year the Big East had good success in Bowl games, which has been a pattern over the last few years. But much of that can be attributed to match ups. The Big East has ties with many bowls against inferior competition, and the most important game, the Orange Bowl, they lost.

Cincinnati was a big surprise last year, while West Virginia was disappointing. This season should be slightly worse than last year, as many teams graduated a lot of talent.

Pittsburgh might be the favorite, along with Rutgers and West Virginia sporting good teams.

5. The Pac-10 Conference

The Pac-10 has been a strange conference to judge the last few years.

Southern Cal might be the most talented team year in and year out, but always seem to trip up once on some lowly conference opponent. On the other hand, they seem to destroy everyone else in the conference.

Oregon should be good this year, and California could be a bit of a surprise. Oregon State should be decent, along with Arizona State.

Last year the bottom of the conference was terrible, with Washington and Washington State combining for just two wins—one of which was an inevitability, as the two squads faced off in the season finale.

This season should be a bit better down at the bottom, as both UW and WSU should be improved. This, along with USC being a national title contender, propels the Pac-10 ahead of the Big East

4. The Big Ten Conference

The inability of Big Ten teams to win bowl games is much documented, but regular-season success can not be ignored.

Ohio State should be decent this year, along with Penn State again. Iowa could be a surprise, while Michigan State and Wisconsin should be good, too.

Michigan's worst season in a very long time hurt the conference last year, but the emergence of Minnesota and Northwestern made up for it. Overall, the conference might not be what it was a year ago, but it won't be off by much.

3. The Big 12 Conference

This might be a surprise, but I'm not convinced about this conference being as good this year.

Last year they played second fiddle to the SEC despite having four top-10 teams. I'm never impressed by the non-conference schedules of conference teams, and the bowl losses of Oklahoma and Texas Tech did nothing to help the reputation of terrible defense.

This year Oklahoma, Texas, and Oklahoma State could all be top-10 teams, while Nebraska should be in the top 25.

Beyond that, Missouri and Kansas should be good enough for bowl bids, but aren't top 25 clubs. The bottom of the conference will be weaker because Texas Tech will drop off this year, and bottom feeders Baylor and Iowa State aren't ready to break through.

Overall, the top is nice, but the middle and bottom of this conference don't stack up against the top two conferences this season.

2.The Atlantic Coast Conference

Yes, the ACC.

Really.

It's getting better. Although they were mediocre in bowl games last year, the conference showed plenty of signs that it's ready turn the corner and become the conference it was supposed to be when it was reformatted a few years ago.

Virginia Tech is a top-10 team, and Georgia Tech is on the border. Florida State is definitely a top-25 team, while N.C. State, Clemson, Miami, and UNC all could find their way in, too.

Boston College and Maryland both look to be good enough to make bowls, while Wake Forest could, as well. Virginia and Duke look like they will round out the bottom, but are no pushovers.

Duke won four games last year and will have a better team this season, while Virginia barely missed out on becoming the 11th bowl-eligible team from the conference.

Although a repeat of 10 bowls bids isn't likely, nine is certainly very possible. There will be plenty of non-conference tests to help the ACC prove itself, and I'd rather see teams challenge themselves than load up on low-end FBS and FCS schools.

Overall, the conference is going to be better than last year and might just be better than the Big 12, top to bottom.

1. The Southeastern Conference

Not a surprising pick on top, as the SEC has been the class of college football the last few years. This season Florida is the pre-season favorite to win it all, while Alabama, Louisiana State, and Mississippi all could vie for the top 10.

Additionally, an improved Tennessee and Auburn will help, while Georgia, South Carolina, and Kentucky could all wind up in bowls. The conference's competitiveness from top to bottom is unrivaled, as even the bottom teams seem to have success out of conference.

Overall, this should be a fun year and the difference in the conferences is too minimal to even be sure.