And The 2009 ACC Champion is...

Carolina?!?

Yes, the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. And I promise I am not under the influence of any drugs.

Despite their 2-5 record this season, UNC has shown fans a reason for optimism. Their only loss by more than seven points came at South Florida, a team continuing to build their resume for a National Championship possibility (parity has officially arrived.)

Losses to East Carolina and Virginia are bad losses, but a seven point loss at Virginia Tech and a six point loss against South Carolina have actually given reason to believe UNC could have promising seasons ahead of them.

Five reasons for a bright future at Carolina:

1. Butch Davis

Probably the most important reason because, aside from being a good coach, he brings with him a better chance at landing top recruits than previous head coach John Bunting could bring.

2. Youth

The team is full of youth - a Freshman at QB, three Freshmen Running Backs, a young receiving core, Freshman DT Marvin Austin, and Freshman FS Deunta Williams (among others) - who together have this team competing, even as underclassmen. As this team mature from Freshmen and Sophomores into Juniors and Seniors, they will have the talent and experience to win a lot of games.

3. The ACC

Whether you think the conference is full parity or mediocrity, the end result is the same: almost every team has a shot at competing in the ACC. Since Florida State was dethroned as king of the ACC, the race for the championship has been wide open. A wide open field is exactly what a team on the rise needs to realize their dreams.

4. Running Back Trio

The assault of Freshmen Running Backs Anthony Elzy, Johnny White, and Ryan Houston transcend from the new tandem halfback scheme into a triple threat. Anthony Elzy provides the speed, Ryan Houston delivers the blows, and Johnny White brings a balanced attack. The competition at the position should also add to their success, because competition makes everyone step up their level of play.

5. Hakeem Nicks

This guy is absolutely incredible, but many if not most people in the nation know nothing about him. TJ Yates can make the worst passes, yet Nicks still comes down with the catch. He has the speed to burn the Cornerback deep, the physical ability to muscle his way for extra yards, and the height to win jump balls. Most importantly, he has the best hands on the team, dropping very few catchable balls this season. This Sophomore Wide Receiver out of Charlotte Independence is the real deal.

Carolina's youth, aided by a very even ACC, should be able to turn in a good season next year, and a great season in two years. Butch Davis has his team moving forward, and the ACC better watch out.