Bleacher Report - Articles by Matt Smith

North Carolina Tar Heels' Four Keys to Victory in 2009

Matt Smith — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 15:04:07 -0400

With a successful 2008 season now in the past, North Carolina turns to 2009, hoping to continue down the winning road that head coach Butch Davis is leading them on.

After picking up more wins in 2008 than the last two seasons combined, the Heels are left with four key areas that could determine the outcome of their season.

Offensive Line Cohesion

In 2009, the Tar Heels lose two senior starters from the offensive line in right guard Calvin Darity and right tackle Garret Reynolds.

The Heels will also bring back four upperclassmen at the tackle position, as Kyle Jolly, Carl Gaskins, Mike Ingersoll and Kevin Bryant battle it out for the two spots.

Carolina is its thinnest at the guard and center positions, but senior Lowell Dyer looks to take over the center position after a move in spring practice.

The left guard spot looks to be handled by sophomore Jonathan Cooper, but a battle could ensue for the right guard spot between seniors Greg Elleby and Alan Pelc.

The O-line has to play well to allow quarterback T.J. Yates time to pass. There aren’t three NFL-ready wide receivers on the team this season.

Solid offensive line play can help keep Yates off his back and the run game moving.

Running In Style

Speaking of the run game, Carolina must continue the improvement seen in last year’s running backs.

While the talent at the position is as questionable as it has been in the past, Shaun Draughn, Ryan Houston, and Jamal Womble must keep drives alive and sustain the offense to win games this season.

Draughn rushed for over 800 yards last season while not playing the position a third of the year, and Houston scored eight touchdowns in mostly short yard situations.

If Draughn continues to improve with a spring practice and training camp under his belt and improves his ball carrying capabilities, the Heels could begin to mass produce those 1,000 yard rushers they are so well known for.

Mr. Lattimore, are you paying attention?

Defensive Presence

UNC returns nine starters on defense in 2009, but last season, the team was held back because of youth.

Tar Heel fans wanted to know why their team didn’t blitz more and why they weren't getting more sacks. Well, a young team and a new defensive coordinator will do that to you.

In 2009, the Heels will have the fastest linebackers in the ACC, with each one of them running at least a 4.4 40-yard dash, and they will be stockpiled with experience on the defensive line.

If Charles Brown can come back healthy and push senior Jordan Hemby at the cornerback spot—which was a problem last year—Carolina’s problem could be solved.

Carolina must find a replacement for safety Tremaine Goddard, but junior Da’Norris Searcy played well enough in the bowl game against West Virginia to lead fans to believe that he can handle the position.

The Tar Heels have a lot of talent on defense and hopefully in 2009, it will be unleashed so that the fans aren’t worried about the prevent-style defense played in so many late game situations that gave us all premature gray hair.

Wide Receiver Play

This is an area most talked about by analysts as the Heels’ biggest problem in 2009, but in all actuality, it isn’t.

There is talent here, just unproven talent.

Everyone remembers Greg Little’s dropped touchdown in the Car Care Bowl last season, but they don’t remember that he missed spring practice, training camp and a third of the year at the position while trying to play running back.

Little, Dwight Jones, Josh Adams and Jheranie Boyd make a group of wide receivers anyone in the ACC would covet.

But in 2009 they must prove it on the field.

With practice and a healthy Yates, the wide receivers will grow into a formidable group in the ACC.

Losing three NFL wide receivers is tough, but remember Heel fans, unproven doesn’t necessarily mean untalented.

Tate the Great: Brandon Tate Leads North Carolina Charge

Matt Smith — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 12:12:27 -0400

Brandon Tate started the year labeled as a "return man," but UNC opponents are quickly finding out that he's more than just a handy special teams player.

Tate is leading not only the ACC in all-purpose yards—he is leading the entire nation on his way to carrying the Tar Heels (2-0, 0-0) to wins over McNeese State and Rutgers.

He has totaled 616 yards on just 20 touches this season, good for a gaudy 30.8 yard per touch average.

Tate is leading the Tar Heels with 231 receiving yards and two touchdowns while also racking up 125 rushing yards and a score on the ground.

He has also already broken the century mark on punt and kickoff returns, gaining 114 and 146 yards respectively. He also added to his touchdown total with a punt return for a touchdown.

Tate already holds the ACC record for kickoff return yardage and is 473 yards away from the ACC punt return yardage record.

Tate's name hasn't been mentioned by the national media at all this season, even though he totaled over 200 all-purpose yards against Rutgers on an ESPN Thursday night match-up.

If UNC continues to win and earns a shot at the ACC championship, and Tate continues to gain ridiculous numbers, this wide receiver could be a dark horse in the Heisman balloting.

All I know is that as long as Tate the Great and his fellow teammates continue to win, Chapel Hill will be a happy place this football season.

ACC Power Rankings: Week 1

Matt Smith — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 07:55:39 -0400

After this week we should probably drop the "power" from power rankings because the ACC looked about as good as Amy Winehouse after a crack binge.

It wasn't just that the ACC lost, it was that they lost their marquee games on national television and they got embarrassed in those games.

Preseason ACC leader Clemson lost to a middle SEC Alabama, Virginia Tech was beat at their own game by ECU, NC State got whooped behind the wood shed Thursday night, and Virginia was completely out-manned by USC.

A 7-4 mark wouldn't normally be as bad, but this was a big week for the ACC to make a name for itself. Instead the conference crumbled and folded.

But, never the less, with the help of other ACC Community leaders, we bring you the ACC power rankings after week one.

Atlantic Division

Wake Forest (1-0)
Last Week: at Baylor 41-13
This Week: vs. Mississippi

Boston College (1-0)
Last Week: at Kent State 21-0
This Week: vs. Georgia Tech

Maryland (1-0)
Last Week: vs. Delaware 14-7
This Week: vs. Middle Tennessee

Florida State (0-0)
Last Week: Bye
This Week: Western Carolina

Clemson (0-1)
Last Week: vs. Alabama 10-34
This Week: vs. Citadel

NC State (0-1)
Last Week: at South Carolina 0-34
This Week: vs. William and Mary

Coastal Division

Georgia Tech (1-0)
Last Week: vs. Jacksonville State 41-14
This Week: at Boston College

Miami (1-0)
Last Week: vs. Charleston Southern 52-7
This Week: at Florida

UNC (1-0)
Last Week: vs. McNeese State 35-27
This Week: Bye

Virginia Tech (0-1)
Last Week: at ECU 22-27
This Week: vs. Furman

Duke (1-0)
Last Week: vs. James Madison 31-7
This Week: vs. Northwestern

Virginia (0-1)
Last Week: vs. USC 7-52
This Week: vs. Richmond

Those are your power rankings for the ACC. Think and discuss...

Kentucky to open the NCAA BB season with top dog

Matt Smith — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:50:30 -0400

If Kentucky fans thought they were getting a break for the opening of the 2008 basketball season they thought wrong.

The Wildcats will open with preseason favorite North Carolina in Chapel Hill November 18 in both team's first scheduled game of the season.

The game time is a result of a growing football presence in the game's usual December spot due to conference championship games. To add interest, ESPN will pick up the coverage in part with an all-day college basketball extravaganza.

The Heels will bring back all five starters from a Final Four team a year ago along with bringing in three McDonald's All-Americans.

Kentucky will be looking to continue to improve from the 07-08 season where the Wildcats struggled early, but had a solid end to last season.

Kentucky will have to replace guards Joe Crawford and Ramel Bradley along with having the possibility of Patrick Patterson not being up to speed after last year's season ending injury.

The Heels lead the all time series 20-10 and if Kentucky wants to close that gap this season they better make a deal with the Devil because it will be a tall order to beat the Heels in their season opener in Chapel Hill.

UNC Football Finalizes 2008 Recruiting with Solid Prospects

Matt Smith — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:01:18 -0400

With the Dwight Jones situation finally solved, the North Carolina Tar Heels have finally set their 2008 recruiting class.

The story of Jones has been well documented, and now that it is official that he will be with the Heels, he can finally start practicing with the team.

Jones has been touted as having great route-running abilities, good size, and good instinct at the wide receiver position. Jones can be a great possession receiver and a large threat in the red zone for the Heels over the next two seasons.

The Heels also bolster their backfield with the addition of Jamal Womble. The 13th-ranked running back out of Arizona could carry a big load for the Heels this season when starting running back Greg Little is placed out as an extra receiver.

Carolina also helps out their linebacker corps with the signing of Zach Brown from Hargrave Military Academy and Ebele Okakpu from Georgia.

Brown is an excellent athlete, winning both the 100-meter and 200-meter state championships in Maryland.

Both four-star linebacker prospects can make a big impact for a position without much depth.

Another defensive unit that needed to add depth this season was the defensive ends. Head Coach Butch Davis took care of that with the signings of Robert Quinn and Quintin Coples.

Coples also attended Hargrave and has been compared to former UNC great Julius Peppers. Coples' 4.65 40 speed shows he can rush the passer, and he could see a lot of time on third down situations this season.

There were also a few UNC recruits that did not qualify this season. Athlete A.J. Blue, defensive tackle Joseph Townsend, and linebacker Kevin Reddick will not join the Heels this season.

Townsend will enroll in the spring this year, and Reddick will attend Hargrave.

Davis' second recruiting class may not have as many big names as the first, but he addressed the Tar Heels' main needs and continues to fill the roster with athleticism and speed.

If the Tar Heels can continue to revamp their team and style of play, the Heels will be competing for conference championships for years to come.

For a complete list of 2008 UNC recruits, visit Insidecarolina.com.

UNC Football Position Preview: The Secondary

Matt Smith — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 07:10:26 -0400

Besides the defensive tackles, the UNC secondary is probably the strongest area of the Tar Heel defense.

The Heels return all four starters, an area where experience was lacking last year.

With three sophomores and a senior starting this year, UNC could have one of the most dominant secondaries in the ACC.

CB Kendric Burney

2007 Statistics:

50 total tackles

One tackles for loss

One sack, one interception

Burney started last year as a redshirt freshman, making 50 tackles as the Heels looked to find depth at the cornerback position.

Burney gave up his position as a reserve outfielder on the Carolina baseball team so he can focus on football and head coach Butch Davis said that it has, "made a dramatic difference in him [football wise]."

Burney should have a good season for the Heels as he and the rest of the squad continue to mature.

CB Charles Brown

2007 Statistics:

59 total tackles

Five tackles for loss

One sack, two interceptions

Brown was another freshman starting last season as Davis tried to figure out the make-up of his team.

Brown finished with 59 tackles, tied for second on the team, and five tackles for loss; not bad in your first full season of play.

Along side Burney, this cornerback duo should put a lot of pressure on opposing receivers, letting their talented safeties roam around and make plays.

FS Deunta Williams

2007 Statistics:

57 total tackles

Two tackles for loss

No sacks, three interceptions, FF

2007 ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year

Williams had a lot of expectations for the Heels at the 2008 Media Day, expressing that the Heels would win the division and contend for an ACC championship.

And why should Tar Heel fans believe the young safety?

With only a year of experience, Williams looks to become a standout safety, not only in the ACC, but nationwide.

If Williams continues to bring his big play ability to the field the Heels have a great chance to keep every game close defensively.

SS Tremaine Goddard

2007 Statistics:

59 Total Tackles

2.5 tackles for loss

One sack, two interceptions, three FF

And now we get to the lone senior in the secondary, a guy who has seen the bad times in a Carolina uniform and may get a chance this year to start bringing in the good times.

Goddard is a hard-hitting safety, forcing three fumbles last season, and also finished tied for second in total tackles with 59.

If Goddard can stay healthy and be on the field, a combo of Williams and himself would be a strong, intelligent duo, and the senior leadership Goddard brings to the young secondary could be more valuable to them than any playbook ever would.

That's it for the 2008 Tar Heel secondary. Up next, the final installment of my Tar Heel Position Preview, the specialists.

Linebackers
Defensive Linemen
Receivers and Tight Ends
Offensive Linemen
Running Backs
Quartberbacks

John Wall: What's Wrong With NCAA Recruiting

Matt Smith — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 09:06:13 -0400

If you haven't heard of John Wall by now you're either:
A) Not a college basketball fan or
B) Need to get your head from under the rock

The top point guard and number one rated recruit for the 2009 class may be ending his recruitment soon according to Rivals.

Wall has been burning up the recruiting trails lately playing AAU ball and competing at showcase events like the LeBron James Skills Academy and the Peach Jam held. He had a great season as well for his high school, Word of God Christian Academy out of Raleigh, NC.

So naturally when you see that he plays his ball in North Carolina and is the number one rated prospect over all you think he's either signing with North Carolina or Duke.

So why is neither North Carolina nor Duke offering him a scholarship?

Well if you read the linked article you can figure out why.

For those of you who didn't, Wall may actually sign with Baylor after his travel team D-One Sport's head coach Dwon Clifton will be announced as the new Director of Player Development this Friday.

That's why North Carolina and Duke and many other top programs didn't offer Wall.

This deal is about as shady as it can get.

In a world where players must first go to college before the NBA, we've already seen agent scandals, thanks O.J. Mayo, and European deflections, thanks to Brandon Jennings.

So now we get to see the hiring of friends and family to buy a player's way into a college. Under the table deals being made to make sure that a guy is "taken care of."

Now this isn't the first time this has happened; its happened many times, most recently at the University of Memphis when Head Coach John Calipari hired Dajaun Wagner's father as an assistant coach to make sure his boy played for Memphis.

Heck, even Kansas hired Danny Manning's father and got a national championship out of it.

It just sickens me how unattractive the underbelly of college basketball is.

Shoe deals and hanger-ons rule college basketball now, not integrity and team play.

John Wall you are what is wrong with college basketball today; a kid with immense talent that is still not good enough for you. You could probably play on any team but you leverage your abilities to buy your way onto a team.

I for one am sick of the way NCAA basketball is being run and I know as one fan I can't do anything to change it.

I just want the NCAA to know that we as fans recognize it and are disgraced at the way our favorite game has become nothing more than a pawn for the fat pockets for 17 year old kids.

UNC Football Position Preview: The Linebackers

Matt Smith — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 08:34:31 -0400

Last year was a desperate time for linebackers at North Carolina, as the unit has lacked talent and depth as of late.

Seeing the predicament he was in, Head Coach Butch Davis threw two of his most athletic freshmen, Quan Sturdivant and Bruce Carter, into the lion's den. He asking them to play substantial minutes in the 2007 campaign.

The linebacker questions still may not be solved, but Butch is bringing some talented players to Chapel Hill at the linebacker position for the future. This still may be the weakest area for an improving Tar Heel team.

WLB Quan Sturdivant

2007 Statistics

47 Total Tackles

1.5 Tackles for Loss

1 Sacks, 1 Int, 0 Forced Fumbles

Sturdivant started last year as a true freshman, racking up 47 total tackles and a sack.

Having to learn on the run as a freshman is tough, but with a full year of experience and with the absence of former linebacker Durell Mapp, Quan could shine. He has all the athletic gifts needed to become a great linebacker.

It will still be a learning experience for Sturdivant this year, but he's already ahead of the curve as far as playing time is concerned.

MLB Mark Paschal

2007 Statistics

53 Total Tackles

6.5 Tackles for Loss

0 Sacks, 1 Int, 0 Forced Fumbles

With the dismissal of linebacker Wesley Flagg early in the summer, senior Mark Paschal looks to take over the middle linebacker position for the Heels.

Paschal had 53 tackles last season, including 6.5 for loss, good for fifth on the team.

The middle linebacker is the quarterback of the defense, as all of Paschal's senior knowledge will be needed to hold together a young but talented linebacker corp.

SLB Chase Rice

2007 Statistics

1 Tackle

Rice suffered a season-ending ankle injury in the first game of 2007.

He has fully recovered and hopes to regain his starting position from sophomore Bruce Carter who played in his place in 2007.

A year to regain health and continue learning from film benefited Rice, but he remains a big question mark in 2008, because no one knows how much the rust of sitting out a season will affect him.

SLB Bruce Carter

2007 Statistics

25 Total Tackles

2 Tackles for Loss

0 Sacks, 0 Int, 0 Forced Fumbles

Carter was another talented youngster forced into playing last season.

Bruce racked up 25 tackles last season with solid linebacker play.

With Rice returning, Carter's role for the season could be diminished, but I'm sure his athletic abilities will be utilized somewhere on the field by Davis and company.

There should be some fun and exciting fall battles between Rice and Carter for the last starting linebacker spot.

Along with these projected starters, Davis has brought in many talented linebacker recruits such as Kevin Reddick, Zach Brown, and Ebele Okakpu.

If any of these guys don't produce, Davis wont hesitate to insert some of the new freshmen until he finds his starter.

Due up next on the position breakdowns, the Tar Heel Secondary.

Defensive Line
Receivers and Tight Ends
Offensive Line
Running Backs
Quarterbacks

UNC Football Position Preview: Defensive Linemen

Matt Smith — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 04:40:26 -0400

As we move from the offensive to defensive side of the ball, we first check in with the defensive line.

Carolina loses two NFL draft picks from their starting line in first-rounder Kentwan Balmer and seventh-rounder Hilee Taylor but that shouldn't stop the Heels this season as they have one of the best interior defensive lines in the conference.

DE E.J. Wilson

2007 Statistics

44 Total Tackles

9.5 Tackles for Loss

5 Sacks, 1 Forced Fumble

Wilson started 12 games for the Heels last season and with Taylor gone the Heels will need big time production from this Junior help their interior line.

Wilson had 44 tackles last season and that number should increase since both Balmer and Taylor led him in that area in 2007.

Wilson finished second on the team last season in sacks, had two fumble recoveries and forced a fumble. Who ever is on the other side of the line will need to help Wilson this season if the Heels want to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

DT Marvin Austin

2007 Statistics

26 Total Tackles

6 Tackles for Loss

4 Sacks, 0 Forced Fumbles

The former 5-star high school defensive tackles played in all twelve games for the Heels last season and started three of them showing the fans why Austin was so highly recruited coming out of high school.

The experience Austin gained as a freshman will prepare him for this upcoming season as the Tar Heels will need him to anchor the line stopping both the run and the pass.

Marvin has all the speed, athleticism, and desire needed to become one of the elite defensive tackles in the nation and if Butch can develop his talent, Austin could become his first All-American at Chapel Hill by next season.

DT Aleric Mullins

2007 Statistics

19 Total Tackles

3.5 Tackles for Loss

2 Sacks, 1 Forced Fumble

Mullins developed nicely last season, going for 19 tackles and 2 sacks.

With a strong line of defensive tackles including run stopper Cam Thomas, Mullins should be pushed this season to perform even harder or he may be pushed into the back of the rotation in 2008.

Whether is be Mullins or Thomas that starts next season, the inside line of the Tar Heels is a formidable foe. Mullins is capable of getting to the quarterback, closing running lanes, and wreaking havoc on opposing offenses.

DE Darius Massenburg

2007 Statistics

11 Total Tackles

1 Tackle for Loss

0 Sacks, 0 Forced Fumbles

Massenburg is also one of Davis' young, developing talents.

Massenburg had 11 tackles last season and is very good at both stopping the run and pass.

He may see less time on the pass as backup Darius Powell is a very talented speed rusher. With the line having so much potential, the players will need to live up to the hype this season if Carolina wants to contend for a championship.

Thats your 2008 UNC Football defensive line. Up next, the biggest question mark for the Tar Heel's defense, the linebackers.

Receivers and Tight Ends
Offensive Line
Running Backs
Quarterbacks

UNC Football Position Preview: Receivers and Tight Ends

Matt Smith — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:12:04 -0400

Besides Clemson, the UNC receiving core is probably the top group in the conference.

With Greg Little at running back this season, junior wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, senior wide receiver Brandon Tate, and sophomore tight end Zach Pianalto will probably see less balls thrown their way, but hopefully they can still keep up the success the stars had last season.

WR Hakeem Nicks

2007 Statistics

74 Receptions

958 Receiving Yards, 12.9 YPC

Five Receiving TDs

I'm only 20, so I haven't had the opportunity to see many great receivers in person, but Nicks is one of the most physically dominating players I have ever witnessed in college.

Let's face it—Carolina hasn't had much of a running game while he's been on campus. Yet through all of the double teams and constant coverage he saw last season, Nicks caught a UNC-record 74 passes and racked up almost 1,000 yards receiving.

The preseason All-ACC receiver will continue to be one of the best to ever play in Chapel Hill with the help of some run support this season.

I expect at least another 850-900 yard season, with six to seven touchdowns, and a First Team All-ACC selection at the end of the 2008 season.

WR Brandon Tate

2007 Statistics

25 Receptions

479 Receiving Yards, 19.2 YPC

Five Receiving TDs

Besides Nicks, Tate was the most productive wide receiver UNC had last season.

Tate is Carolina's only other preseason All-ACC selection, for the Specialist team, but he's no slouch at catching passes either, averaging a gaudy 19.2 YPC in 2007 while hauling in five touchdowns.

With most of the attention focused on Nicks, Tate thrived in the deep pass attacks Yates employed last season before his shoulder injury.

Look for Tate to score any way he can against opposing teams, whether it be from a kickoff, a punt, or the long ball.

TE Zack Pianalto

2007 Statistics

24 Receptions

204 Receiving Yards, 8.5 YPC

0 Receiving TDs

Pianalto was a pleasant surprise for the Heels last season, starting as a true freshman.

With a year of experience, Pianalto should understand the schemes offensive coordinator John Shoop wants to employ, helping him become both a better receiver and blocker.

Along with the wide receivers, Pianalto should benefit from an improved running game, hopefully seeing the ball thrown his way on some play action passes in the red zone.

That's it for the offense. In the next positional breakdown, I examine the defensive end position and the youth Head Coach Butch Davis has brought in to strengthen it.

Offensive Line
Running Backs
Quarterbacks

Open Mic: How Michael Strahan Showed How Smart He Really Is

Matt Smith — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 08:25:38 -0400

The question is always asked of our favorite players, when is it time to hang the old pair of cleats up?

Well Strahan, like many before him, found out the best answer to that question; you go out on top.

Now, not every great player gets the chance to go out on top. Recently, Brett Favre has flirted with possibly coming back to the NFL and an NFC Championship game loss.

There was no way the future Hall of Fame quarterback could go out with a Super Bowl win.

But Favre needs to look at the Strahan situation. Strahan could probably play another two, maybe even three years. He could rack up more sacks to his total but probably could not play at the high level he had in previous years.

He's good enough to play but not at the same level we all know he could.

Favre, on the other hand, like many before him including Emmit Smith, Jerry Rice, and Randall Cunningham, still believes he can be an instrumental cog to any team he joins.

Sure, Favre had a great season last year, but look at the names on this list. Rice didn't win a championship in Oakland, Smith didn't turn the Cardinals into a contender, and what in the world was Cunningham doing in Dallas and Baltimore?

If Favre doesn't stay with the Packers, which both parties seem to have no interest in, then Favre needs to hang it up.

You don't win championships one year with a team. Probably not two years. It takes too long to mesh and getting Favre at his age is too big of a risk to imagine he would even be at his new team for more than a year.

Brett hang it up. It’s time my man. You high jacked the Packers when you were throwing upwards to 30 interceptions and when you finally give them an out they prepare their team for life without you only to hear you say you want back.

Stay retired and keep your legacy intact. The city loves you but if you go off and play for someone else the fickleness of the fans will rear their ugly heads and your image by the Bay will be tarnished forever.

For your sake, the Packer's sake, and for whatever team is interested in you for the future Brett, use Strahan's situation as a model for what to do.

If you must go play some touch football with the boys, coach a local team, or become an analyst (preferably not for ESPN).

Go out while you're a hero on your team Brett, don't go as a zero for someone else.

UNC Football Position Preview: The Big Guys Up Front

Matt Smith — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 02:38:03 -0400

As my position preview of the 2008 Tar Heels continues we get to the positions that many casual fans overlook, the offensive line.

Any diehard football fan can tell you that the big men up front set the tone for the entire season and that their success determines the success for the entire team.

With that said, here is your starting offensive line for the 2008 Tar Heels.

LT Kyle Jolly

Jolly is coming off of a foot injury but should be in good shape to start the season off.

The junior lineman is coming back to protect Yate's blind side and the left tackle's job of protecting the quarterback is a large one that Jolly is eager to take on.

In his second year under offensive line coach Sam Pittman, Jolly looks to continue the success the o-line had at the end of last season and make huge holes for running back Greg Little to race through.

LB Bryon Bishop

With former LG Aaron Stahl moving to center during the offseason, Bishop will be the only non-returning starter on the offensive line this season.

Bishop is a senior this year and even though he has not taken many snaps, three years of experience is hard to come by.

Look for bishop to succeed under the tutelage of Davis and the rest of the experienced, veteran offensive line in 2008.

C Aaron Stahl

Junior Aaron Stahl takes over the middle of the offensive line with the departure of Scott Lenahan.

Stahl has starting experience under his belt and as long as the center to quarterback exchange goes well throughout the season the Heels should be in good shape at the center position.

RG Calvin Darity

Darity is entering his third year as a starter and looks to excel as the rest of the linemen have gained experience.

Darity made 24 consecutive starts, showing not only that he as the football skills to excel at his position but the durability to last a complete season.

With Darity and RT Garret Reynolds heading the attack on the right side, the Tar Heels have a strong and senior led side to set the tone for the big games.

RT Garret Reynolds

As stated earlier Reynolds, a senior, is also entering his third year as a starter for this Tar Heel squad.

Reynolds has a high octane motor that sets the tone for the entire line and if the Heels have success, Reynolds could be an All-ACC candidate by season's end.

Experience again can not be understated in regard to an offensive line and Reynolds has the experience and rive needed to be a top caliber tackle in the ACC.

That's it for the offensive linemen, next up the talented wide receivers and tight ends.

Running Backs
Quarterbacks

UNC Football Position Preview: Finally Another 1,000-Yard Rusher?

Matt Smith — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 12:51:58 -0400

A little known fact about North Carolina was that before USC took over the moniker, the Tar Heels were known as Tailback U.

It's been over 10 seasons since the Heels had a 1,000-yard rusher, but this season could end that streak, as running back Greg Little looks to take over for a less than productive 2007 tandem.

Greg Little

2007 Statistics

59 Rush Attempts

300 Rushing Yards, 5.1 Yards per Rush Average

Two Rushing TDs

After no one stepped up to become the feature back in 2007, head coach Butch Davis decided to ask freshman wide receiver Greg Little to step up and try his hand at the running back position.

And you know what? It worked.

Little rushed for 200 yards and scored two touchdowns last season in only two games last season, including the game-winning score in overtime against Duke.

Now I don't want to go crazy and say Little will be an instant star, but with a more experienced offensive line, Little could be more than just "productive" in the Carolina offense.

Little should be the feature back this season, but look for him to split carries with incoming freshman Jamal Womble, as Little's "stand-up" style of running works great in space but may be troublesome between the tackles.

Anthony Elzy

2007 Stats

92 Rush Attempts

321 Rush Yards, 3.5 Yards per Rush Average

Five Rushing TDs

Elzy may have been the most productive back last season, rushing for the most touchdowns on the 2007 squad and coming in second in total rushing yards.

But Elzy failed to secure his starting job during the offseason and may drop all the way down to third on the depth chart this season with the addition of Jamal Womble.

Elzy is a very capable runner between the tackles, but he needs to prove to the coaching staff that he is capable of being productive every time he gets his hands on the ball.

Look for Elzy to be a contributor this season but not have as large a role as he did last year.

Jamal Womble

2007 Statistics

DNP—Incoming Freshman

Womble, the 13th-ranked running back out of high school last season, looks to make an instant impact for the Heels.

The 5'10", 220-pound running back is touted as having great cutback ability and good tackle-breaking ability.

Look for Womble to get a shot as a freshman at running the ball, possibly taking some third down reps and carrying the ball at times when Little is slotted at receiver.

That's it for the 2008 Tar Heel running backs.

Due up next, the men that block for them, as I examine the Heels' offensive line.

UNC Football Position Preview: Quarterbacks Key to Success in 2008

Matt Smith — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:36:47 -0400

After a 4-8 campaign in 2007, the Tar Heels look to turn the corner toward the success they've been searching for so many years now. Offensive production will rest heavily on the quarterback this season, and with solid play from this position, the Heels could be poised to gain momentum for this season and beyond.

T.J. Yates

2007 Statistics

218-365, 59.7 percent Completion Percentage

2,655 Passing Yards

14 Touchdowns

18 Interceptions

Lost among the 4-8 record last season was the fact that redshirt freshman T.J. Yates threw for a school record 2,655 yards and set school freshman records for completions and attempts.

Yates also threw for 14 touchdowns but gave away 18 interceptions. With offseason shoulder surgery and a full year of experience, Heels fans hope the turnover rate goes down as the wins pile up.

Yates is recovering well from his surgery and is throwing daily. He should make it back in time to be the starting quarterback for the full 2008 season.

Mike Paulus

2007 Statistics

DNP, Redshirt

Highly touted passer Mike Paulus sat out as a redshirt during the 2007 season, but he may see action this season if Yates' recovery does not go as planned.

Paulus was a four-star recruit coming out of high school, despite only playing two full years. He has a great arm and is a solid pocket passer.

His development could put pressure on Yates to perform, and a good quarterback controversy is never a bad thing in college athletics.

Cameron Sexton

2007 Statistics

1-1, 100 percent Completion Percentage

9 Passing Yards

0 Touchdowns

0 Interceptions

Sexton saw limited time with the emergence of Yates as the starter in 2007. Sexton has continued to work on his growth as a quarterback after lackluster performances during the 2005 and 2006 campaigns.

Sexton has been working with a personal quarterback coach over the summer to improve his game and hopefully can make a positive contribution during the 2008 season.

Besides, he's a hometown guy and a friend, so hopefully he can enjoy some success while at the program.

That does it for this year's rundown of the Tar Heel's quarterbacks. Due up next, a breakdown of this season's runningbacks.

Charlotte Bobcats: Now I Know Why They Lose

Matt Smith — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 10:20:15 -0400

This is an open letter to the Charlotte Bobcats, because their recent picks in the 2008 NBA draft have made me rethink why I even try to pull for this team.

Dear Bobcats,

In lue of your recent picks in this 2008 NBA draft, I am returning my fan card to the front desk. Sure maybe I haven't been able to watch every game, mainly because you charge Boston Celtic's prices for a high school product. Also, because you are never on television because you are garbage.

But with your recent picks I have to blame it on you, not the basketball culture in the state of North Carolina.

You've been with us since 2004, and every year I think you're going to get better and better. But what do you do? You disappoint me.

You're the red headed step-child in a family of clean cut All-Americans.

Let's see, you pick up the No. 20 pick from the Nuggets and I think, wow, look at the Bobcats making moves to get some good players after signing a proven winner as a coach. Great move guys, you almost had me!

Then you choose with the No. 9 pick, D.J. Augustin. Now he's a great guy, NCAA First Team All-American even. But he's not what you need. You have an All-American and National Champion point guard, his name is Raymond Felton if you've forgot.

You needed a combo or shooting guard to help Felton out who had to play shooting guard at times last year. Then you pass on Jerryd Bayless, a guard that can handle the ball and shoot for days. Hope this undersized point guard solves your shooting guard problem, even if you decide to trade Felton to the Knicks which has been rumored today by the New York Daily News.

And let's see, with No. 20 you pick a French project in Alexis Ajinca? The man averages 5.4 rpg and 5 ppg in Europe. Sure they don't play as many minutes as players over here, and he is 7'1'', but is that really going to help you now? Fans want wins now. If you wanted a big man, pick Brook Lopez, who went 10th, with your ninth pick and pick up a later round shooting guard here.

Yes Charlotte you did pick up a shooting guard in the second round in Kyle Weaver, but there were better picks and smarter decisions to be made earlier. Fans want to win now and while I hope these picks pan out, they don't make sense.

Larry Brown has won more titles and more games than I could ever hope to even imagine, but I hope he knows what he's doing. Having to compete with national powerhouse college teams is hard enough to do without more "growing pains."

As for now I will remain a fan, but if Jordan, Brown, and the rest of the Bobcats don't shape up the franchise soon, they could go the way of the Hornets and leave for a better city, more success, and more money.

Sincerely,

Matt Smith

Brandon Jennings: Top Prospect Eyes the European Side of Life

Matt Smith — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 06:31:49 -0400

A few weeks ago I wrote a story about how the number-one ranked point guard for next season, Brandon Jennings, was still ineligible to play at Arizona.

Well, on Thursday Jennings gets his SAT scores back, and many Arizona fans feel that that date will decide what Jennings does with his future. But hold up Wildcat fans—Jennings' decision may not be as easy as black and white.

As reported by Gary Parrish on CBSSportsline.com, Jennings is actually considering playing in Europe for his one-year-wait out of high school as mandated by the NBA.

It seems easy in theory, but before I read Jennings was thinking about doing it, I had never thought about making that transition before!

I believe it would be a benefit for both the NCAA and the players involved. The NCAA would not have to worry about semi-pro athletes on campus with agents already in their pocket.

The O.J. Mayos would be a less frequent sight on campus, and the schools wouldn't have to worry as much if top prospects left the country instead of using their school as a springboard to success.

For the athlete, you wouldn't have to waste your time at a place you don't want to be while playing inferior competition that will not make you a better "prospect" at the next level.

You get to earn cash in Europe, learn the international game, which will help you both understand our game and your own skills and ability, and get to visit a beautiful continent in the meantime.

Sure, the NBA may suffer. They won't get to see the prospect develop maybe as much as they should, but if the player is a top athlete, no one is going to forget about him in a year.

The move is risky, but if more players catch on to this idea, a new fad could develop and the NBA's one-and-done rule could backfire in their faces.

As long as the NBA is limiting options, amateur athletes are going to find other ways to get things done.

If Jennings does decide to go to Europe, it could be a landmark decision not only affecting himself, but the dozens of other top athletes coming out of school each year deciding their amateur and professional futures.

Open Mic: No Soccer, No Problem

Matt Smith — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 06:19:58 -0400

With the 2008 Euro tournament and USA friendlies all being played right now, soccer has suddenly blown up across ESPN and all other media outlets.

But the question is, why? Why do Americans only care about soccer when they World Cup is on or the Champions League Final is about to begin?

The answer is simple: because Americans do not care about soccer. We play it growing up to get exercise and learn how to socialize with other children, but by the time high school rolls around, many of us trade our shin guards in for shoulder pads and metal cleats.

And why should we care? The biggest soccer superstar is the MLS isn’t even American, and what in the world has happened to the next soccer sensation, Freddy Adu?

When we are growing up we are told that we can be anything that we want, and, while in other nations soccer is perpetuated as the “end-all-be-all”, here in America, it's not. Why would a top athlete want to play soccer when no one watches if he can become a multi-million dollar hero in the NFL, NBA, or MLB?

Until the MLS can market something, anything, to draw fans into their sport, soccer will be nothing more than a second-tier sport that no one cares about here in America.

How they can compete with the other top sports organizations, I don’t know—I’m not a marketing genius and I’m sure they have tried. All I know is that everyone is fine with watching the World Cup every four years and checking out clips every now and again on Sportscenter.

I don’t think you want that to be the highlight of your organization’s career.

A 0-0 or 1-0 game doesn’t cut it when people are already emotionless about a game. Make it more interesting, develop better talent, and then maybe in 10 to 15 years people, and top athletes, will gain interest in soccer.

But for now, no soccer means no problem for this sports fan.

Open Mic: Can These Hoops Records Ever Be Broken?

Matt Smith — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 07:08:17 -0400

I'm a basketball guy, mainly college but a little NBA thrown in here and there. Basketball is my passion. With all of the controversy surrounding the sport recently, it's nice to sit back and reflect on some of the greatest records and streaks in the sport.

Here are my top three most memorable and impressive accomplishments in the sport of basketball.

3. The Lakers' 33-Game Win Streak

The Lakers' 1971-72 season gave us one of the greatest streaks in professional basketball. Just nine games into the season, Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor retired.

The day after he retired, the Lakers stepped their game up and went on to the longest winning streak in professional sports. The streak started November 5, 1971 against the Baltimore Bullets and ended on January 9, 1972 against the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks.

Of course, people say it was easy to do with future Hall of Famers Jerry West, Wilt Chamberlain, and Gail Goodrich—but Michael and Scottie didn't do it, Shaq and Kobe didn't do it, and more recently Boston's "Big Three" didn't do it.

Houston took a shot at it this season with a 22-game win streak, but the old Lakers never felt threatened. Thirty-three is an immortal number and probably won't be reached in our lifetime, no matter how good the team.

2. Wilt Chamberlain's 100 Points

Whether or not you believe the hype that old Wilt the Stilt slept with over 20,000 women, you can believe that he scored the most points by an individual in a single game.

While playing for the Philadelphia Warriors on March 2, 1962, Chamberlain went on his historic point run that still stands today. Wilt had 23 points in the first quarter, 41 at halftime, and only 69 after the third.

With 1:27 left on the clock, Wilt was still one basket short of the 100-point mark. He shot, missed, got his own rebound, and missed again. Luckily, his teammate Ted Luckenbill grabbed the rebound, whipped a pass to Joe Ruklick, and Ruklick fed Wilt who threw down an emphatic dunk to get his 99th and 100th points.

Chamberlain shot 36 for 63 from the field, a record for both field goals made and attempted in a game. The only player to come close to the record was Kobe's 81 in 2006—and if the greatest player in our era can't get 100, who can?

1. UCLA and the 88-Game Win Streak

Sure, there have been rumors and reports that some of Wooden's players were "bought," but whether or not you believe those reports, the 88-game win streak his UCLA teams choreographed from January 1971 to January 1974 is the greatest basketball streak of all time.

During the streak the Bruins claimed three NCAA titles, and the streak lasted so long that no single player participated in all 88 victories. The streak began after an 89-82 loss to Notre Dame and was ended by the Irish three years later in a 71-70 defeat.

During the streak, the Bruins' largest margin of victory was a 64-point drubbing of Texas A&M, the fourth largest Bruin victory of all time. Their highest point total was in a 119-81 victory over Texas Christian.

As the streak continued, people talked about the total reaching into the hundreds, but again Notre Dame and their young coach Digger Phelps would end that task. On January 18, 1974, Notre Dame took the game 71-70 after being down 11 with 3:30 left.

As the streak ended, college basketball witnessed the greatest win streak of all time—and the greatest basketball achievement in my book.

University of Memphis In Serious Discussion With Big East

Matt Smith — Thu, 15 May 2008 06:27:39 -0400

After another 30-win season, their third in a row, their first No. 1 ranking ever, and a trip to the national title game, the Memphis Tigers are now in serious discussion with the Big East to join their conference.

Sources tell Fox News 13 that talks are underway for the school to join the Big East during their annual spring meetings.

Memphis went undefeated in Conference USA this season, winning all 16 games, but it came with some backlash. Many felt that their weak conference schedule would hurt them during NCAA tournament play, and the school and players felt disrespected due to the lack of legitimacy in their schedule.

The move makes a lot of sense for Memphis. Being affiliated with one of the six BCS Conferences not only means better games for the Tigers, but more money and a better recruiting advantage.

Many thought Memphis would be included in the Big East after Virginia Tech, Miami, and Boston College departed to join the ACC, but the school was rejected in 2003.

If this merger is completed, Memphis will rejoin its rivals Louisville and Cincinnati in the Big East since the teams departed from Conference USA.

While the move is a good fit for Memphis, is it the best for the Big East. Already labeled a "super conference", the addition of Memphis would add another team to total 17 all together in the conference. That's a lot of teams, for not many games, especially during the football season.

The deal is still up in the air, but we should hear soon if Memphis will get a spot in the conference and earn the respect they deserve with a new schedule and the reverence a BCS conference holds.

These Aren't Your Daddy's Tampa Bay's Rays

Matt Smith — Wed, 14 May 2008 07:01:25 -0400

Hell has not yet frozen over but check it out people, the Tampa Bay Rays are leading the AL East, and it’s not the first day of the season.

Last night, with a 2-1 win over the New York Yankees, the Rays took a half game lead over the Boston Red Sox for the American League East crown.

Off to the best start of their history, the Rays are looking to make some noise not just in the months of April and May, but all the way through to the end of the season.

Tampa Bay (23-16) was not expected to be a threat in the division. With their past history and payroll, next to last in the majors at around $43 million, why would they be expected to contend in a division with the Red Sox and Yanks?

Tampa Bay hasn't gotten to this position on pure luck; it's been a combination of great pitching, timely hitting, and a new attitude that's been brought into the club house.

Many people laughed a scoffed when the team decided to drop the Devil out of their name, but it looks like they dropped the name while exercising the demon that possessed it.

Through the great pitching of Scott Kazmir, James Shields, and Matt Garza, a combined 7-4 with a 3.23 ERA and productive hitting from Carl Crawford, BJ Upton, and Eric Hinske, the Rays have racked up a 15-7 record at home.

They are tied for tops in the major league with the Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks.

While many still do not look for the Rays to make any postseason noise or even continue leading the division in the following months, maybe its time to start recognizing the improvement made by the organization.

Even though only around 16,000 fans attend each home game, the team still comes out every night ready to play with a positive attitude many other players need to pick up.

Could this finally be the year the Tampa Bay Rays have a winning season? Only time will tell. If the Rays have anything to say about it, they may make this major league baseball season interesting.

OJ Mayo Case Provides Look into College Sports Corruption

Matt Smith — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:34:17 -0400

College amateurism—this novel idea has been an oxymoron since its inception and it has never been more apparent than in today’s fast-paced, got-to-get it now world.

Case in point: O.J. Mayo. A kid who admittedly didn’t have a cell phone before starting college now comes to school with a plasma television. A kid from a poor background now has the flash that you normally expect from an L.A. professional athlete.

And USC and the NCAA expect us to believe in college amateurism.

But, I don’t blame O.J. Mayo in this case. The current college basketball system is terrible. The one and done athletes give a bad name to their institution, academic integrity, and school pride. Their college choices are not chosen based on academic standards, but by a future pay check.

Mayo and his associates have allegedly been paid since Mayo was in the ninth grade. If pimping prostitutes on the street is illegal, then pimping ninth graders for their basketball skill should be child abuse.

Kentucky recently got a commitment from an eighth grader; do you think he hasn’t been contacted by an agent at this point?

I don’t believe college athletes should be paid. That’s what scholarships are for, but something has to be done so that college athletes do not become hired assassins while still in school.

The one and done rule must go. If a man wants to, and can, provide a living for himself and his family, let him; we don’t need professional athletes playing amateur ball.

The NCAA also needs to limit giving out scholarships until an appropriate age—like maybe the 11th grade. Kids have enough pressure on them without being singled out early and being subjected to the stress that may come of it.

Again, I don’t blame O.J. for this. I blame the slick agents that are promising dreams and the NCAA for allowing it while setting their own agenda.

Keep the cash out of college and keep my favorite pastime clean before it’s too late.

Indiana Basketball: the Art of Cleaning House

Matt Smith — Mon, 05 May 2008 02:11:33 -0400

Indiana basketball has been known for its hundreds of wins, multiple national championships, and its fiery coaches. Well, now their new head coach is making sure his name is known and his program is run the correct way.

Indiana Men's head basketball coach Tom Crean has made clear in the last few weeks that he will not put up with the same, for lack of a better term, crap that former head coach Kelvin Sampson stood for.

In response to NCAA sanctions for Sampson's illegal phone use and more possible violations for not adhering to the NCAA progress report, Crean is cleaning house and setting a new example for the state of basketball in Indiana.

Crean is already faced with the loss of one scholarship. It was thanks to a self-imposed sanction due to Sampson's "phone gate" earlier this season.

Since it has been reported that the Hoosiers’ team score on the NCAA progress report was an 899, well below the cut-line of 925, the Hoosiers could actually lose two more scholarships.

With the loss of Eric Gordon due to early entry into the NBA (he is projected to be a top 10 draft pick) and the losses of Big 10 Player of the Year D.J. White and Lance Stemler, Crean already had a tough job in replacing these players.

With the suspensions of Armon Basset and Jamarcus Ellis upheld and the recent transfer of Eli Holman, Coach Crean will have to replace his entire starting five from last semester.

He will also have to replace the culture that revolved around Indiana basketball last season.

In addition, Indiana's top two recruits, Devin Ebanks and Terrell Holloway, have asked out of their letters of intent and will not be joining the Crimson and Cream next year.

Crean has brought in four recruits for the upcoming season, including Nick Williams who originally sign with Crean at Marquette.

It will be a long and bumpy road for Crean and the Hoosiers. But it is a welcome change for the face of Indiana basketball that a coach will be willing to sacrifice wins to play basketball the way it should be played.

LSU Tigers: Ryan Perriloux Out, Whose In?

Matt Smith — Fri, 02 May 2008 03:55:14 -0400

Troubled quarterback Ryan Perrilloux has been dismissed from the defending national champion LSU Tigers after Les Miles kicked Perrilloux off the team Thursday.

Miles said in a press release Friday morning that, "[Perrilloux] didn't full-fill his obligations as as LSU student-athlete." No specific reason for his dismissal was given, but it has been speculated to be drug related.

Perrilloux in 12 games last season completed 51 of 75 passes for eight touchdowns and two interceptions. He played behind quarterback Matt Flynn on the way to the Tiger's title run last season.

Perrilloux was suspended last summer after being caught in a counterfeit scam where the player tried to use a fake I.D. to gain access into a Baton Rouge casino. Early into last season Perrilloux was also involved in a night club incident, but was later cleared of all charges.

Without their number one prospect at quarterback, the Tigers will look to either walk-on Andrew Hatch or redshirt freshman Jarrett Lee to take over quarterback duties. Both were reported to be having a good spring, but neither will bring the athleticism that Perriloux offered.

In an already tough SEC Conference, the loss of Perrilloux could drastically change the face of the SEC West. The hope the Tigers can take away from this is that they have a relatively easy out of conference schedule against the likes of Troy, North Texas, Tulane, and the defending champions of the championship sub-division Appalachian State Mountaineers.

You have to give it up to Miles—he gave Perrilloux chance after chance to atone for his mistakes, but I guess being the starting quarterback for the defending national champions just isn't good enough for some.

ACC Basketball: Top Incoming Recruits of 2008

Matt Smith — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 05:59:03 -0400

With the 07-08 season come and gone, its time to look ahead to the 2008-2009 season and see who the top incoming are and the impact they will bring to the next level.

#1 Al-Farouq Aminu
Stats: 6-8, 195, Norcross High School
Committed To: Wake Forest
Ranking: #2 Small Forward (5 Stars)

With a surprising seventh place finish last season in the ACC after the death of head coach Skip Prosser, Aminu could be the key for the Deacons to get over the ACC hump. Adding to a huge front line coming in this season, Aminu is a 195 pound small forward that has the ability to create his own shot and take his defender outside on the perimeter.

He has a great face up game and can beat his man to the basket, but needs to work on his low-block scoring game to become one of the elite in the ACC.

#2 Ed Davis
Stats: 6-8, 215, Benedictine High School
Committed to: UNC
Ranking: #3 Power Forward (5 Stars)

With the potential loss of Tyler Hansbrough and the sometimes inconsistent play of Deon Thompson, the polished Davis could keep the Heels not only in contention for another ACC title, but for a national title as well.

Davis, the son of a twelve year NBA veteran, has great rebounding ability and a good face-up game to go along with his length. Like Aminu he needs to work on his low block scoring but could be the perfect compliment to the front line of the Heels.

#3 Iman Shrumpert
Stats: 6-4, 175, Oak Park & River Forest High School
Committed to: Georgia Tech
Ranking: #5 Shooting Guard (5 Stars)

Georgia Tech was another one of those ACC teams jumbled in the middle of the pack for most of the season and with an electric guard like Shrumpert coming in he could be the player that lights the spark under this program.

Shrumpert is a combo guard with great intelligence for either position and has a lethal perimemtier shot. Shrumpert will need to work on his ball handling and defense, but hey that’s what college is for.

#4 Elliot Williams
Stats: 6-4, 170, St. George’s-Collierville High School
Committed to: Duke
Ranking: #4 Shooting Guard (5 Stars)

Duke has been known over the years to hand pick some of the best shooting guards in the nation. While they do not address their largest need in the post area, they get a great player in Elliot Williams that could be an impact star the moment he steps on the court with the loss of Taylor King due to a transfer.

Williams is multi-positional and can drive to the basket whenever he chooses, a great fit for the dribble and kick Blue Devil offense. Williams can work on his mid-range game, but with a shot like his it shouldn’t take long to develop.

#5 Catalin Baciu
Stats: 7-0, 225, Veritas Christian Academy
Committed to: Clemson
Ranking: #10 Center (4 Stars)

While Baciu may not be the highest ranked player coming into the ACC this season, the success of Clemson could depend on how this kid produces. Clemson is loosing a lot on their frontline this season and anytime you add a 7-footer to the mix good things can happen.

Baciu has a good face-up game and has great passing ability, which could come in handy for guards on Clemson like Ogilsvy that love to spot up and shoot the three. Needs to work on his low block finishing game and his strength.

These are the top impact recruits coming into the ACC this season. Look for these players to break out and have a stellar year on their squads and be in the running for ACC Rookie of the Year.

All stats and rankings provided by Scout.com