More Than Pass Catchers: Ranking the Five Best Tight Ends In the ACC

We've reached the end of our offensive player rankings with a look at the ACC's best tight ends for 2010. A tight end can be anything from a sixth offensive lineman, to an extra receiver. Pure stats don't always tell the whole story of a tight end's value to a team.

Who are the best one's the ACC has to offer?

Completed Rankings at All About Sports .

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1) George Byran, NC State

Byran is the ACC's best pass catching tight end. He had 40 catches for 422 yards, and six touchdowns last year. He's 6'5" and 265 pounds, so he's a nice-sized target for NC State quarterback Russell Wilson. Bryan did get in some trouble during the offseason, as he was the tenant of an apartment police busted for marijuana. We'll have to see how coach Tom O'Brien handles this situation.

2) Zack Pianaloto, North Carolina

North Carolina's offense won't be explosive this season. Most of the Heels playmakers will be on defense, but Pianaloto will provide one of North Carolina's best options on offense. That is, if he can stay healthy. He's been hampered by injuries over the last few years. When healthy, he's a very reliable receiver. Pianaloto had 33 receptions for 334 yards in 2009. He could have a 50-catch season if he can avoid injuries.

3) Chris Pantale, Boston College  

Pantale had a very nice freshman year at BC, with 25 catches for 223 yards. Pantale is 6'6" and 244 pounds, so he has a solid frame to build on. Pantale is also a solid physical blocker who's only going to get better as a player. He has the talent to one day be an All-ACC performer.

4) Joe Torchia, Virginia

Torchia might be the best blocking TE in the ACC. At 6'6" and 250 pounds, he's like having an extra offensive lineman. When given the opportunity, he's also shown the ability to be a good pass catcher. As a junior, Torchia had 15 receptions for 150 yards and two touchdowns. Expect new coach Mike London to use the senior more in the passing game.

5) Dwayne Allen, Clemson

Allen is a star in waiting for the Clemson Tigers. I think Allen has tons of potential. He's big at 6'4" and 255 pounds, and has great hands. He had 10 receptions last season while playing behind Michael Palmer. Allen was a four star, top 20 tight end when he committed to Clemson in 2008, and he's only a RS-sophomore.