Daily Links, Nov. 6

Beth Mechum

November 6, 2009

Another set of links to post while marveling at the genius which is Parks & Recreation. People, if you’re not watching this show, please start.

We start today in Winston-Salem and hunt for links until we reach Chestnut Hill. All names in bold are those of recent ACC Sports Journal contributors.

Wake Forest will need to be consistent from the 3-point arc to get anywhere this season, writes Winston-Salem’s Dan Collins. If not, the Deacons’ season could end up similar to last year’s: full of bitterness and unfulfilled goals.

Virginia Tech avoided its first three-game losing streak in six years last night, beating ECU 16-3. The Hokies finally got their third-down defense in gear, notes **Norm Wood** of the Newport News Daily Press. Lyndell Gibson made his first career collegiate start, reports Norfolk’s Kyle Tucker. He recorded one tackle in the first half, and recovered a fumble early in the third quarter.

Al Groh might not be coming back to Virginia, but committed recruits aren’t changing their minds. Roanoke’s Doug Doughty takes some time to dish on insider UVA news.

Raleigh’s Ken Tysiac reports that N.C. State kick returner and wide receiver T.J. Graham is done for the season. Freshman Scott Wood made a name for himself Thursday night as the Wolfpack beat St. Paul’s College 84-42.

Teams can’t reveal specific details about workouts with other Division I schools, so after North Carolina scrimmaged with Vanderbilt Sunday, Roy Williams was cryptic with his report. Hmm, if only we could decipher what he really meant by yucky and ugly. This basketball season will bring a lot of change for the Tar Heels, but the end goal is the same, writes Winston-Salem’s Bill Cole.

Miami’s injury report, though getting better, still has a significant number of important players on it, writes Manny Navarro of the Miami Herald. Fort Lauderdale’s Shandel Richardson writes about how Hurricane injuries this season have shaped the team.

Maryland needs to win its last four games to be considered for a bowl, and the Terrapins are trying to remain upbeat about the situation, reports the Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell The team is still trying to win games, but Friedgen is also hoping to get some young players playing time. Those goals are likely to clash.

Georgia Tech’s offense can look as great as anybody’s in the countries at times, so Atlanta’s Ray Glier asks why are the Yellow Jackets the only ones running it? Sometimes a team needs something more than the blue chippers to beat the big names, and Georgia Tech’s offense is that something more. Macon’s Coley Harvey has a Q&A with offensive lineman Nick McRae.

I wonder if FSU’s new lightweight Nike uniforms will make the defense more effective? At least they’ll look good, eh? Tampa Bay’s Brian Landman writes that the uniforms will be unveiled at the Nov. 21 game against Maryland. That’s the same game in which Florida State will honor Mickey Andrews, reports Orlando’s Andrew Carter.

On a more serious note, Duke’s J.J. Redick is releasing a rap album, writes Raleigh’s J.P. Giglio. Some teammates questioned Conner Vernon’s speed when he arrived on campus this season. They’re not questioning it anymore.

Kyle Parker might be young, and there was never any question of his raw talent, but Clemson was wary at first of having him the steer the offense. Greenville’s **Ed McGranahan** writes that there is a lot more confidence in the Tiger locker room now. Parker and other Clemson players came from a 160-mile stretch of Interstate 10 in Florida. It’s one of the most important recruiting corridors Dabo Swinney has.

Rich Gunnell is not the flashiest receiver Boston College has ever had, but he’s inching toward becoming one of the best, reports the Boston Herald’s Steve Conroy. There’s no question that the Eagles are going bowling, but there is no answer as to where. The Boston Globe’s Mark Blaudschum tries to figure it out. Earlier this season former BC quarterback Matt Hasselbeck benched himself on his fantasy team. His real self then went out and threw for four TDs while his fantasy self languished on the bench. That, folks, is fantasy football in a nutshell.

That’s all for today. High school football tonight. College football tomorrow.

Daily Links, Nov. 5

Jim Young | Mailbag

ACCSports.com

November 5, 2009

Another set of links to post while trying to cope with a world in which the Yankees are again the champs. Ugggh.

We start today in Eagles Country and keep posting links until we reach the land of the Demon Deacons. All names in bold are those of recent ACC Sports Journal contributors.

Grant Fitzgerald contributed heavily to this links compilation.

Want to know why Josh Haden is transferring? Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald has the story. You know you’re doing something right at Boston College when you get the attention of the Boston Globe’s top columnist. Bob Ryan sings the praises of Frank Spaziani.

Clemson has a recent history of making bad opposing defenses look good, so the Tigers are ignoring Florida State’s struggles, reports Columbia’s Paul Strelow. The Tigers have struggled to find a wideout to play opposite of Jacoby Ford, but it appears Clemson has some promising young receiver talent on its roster. This Saturday will be a homecoming for safety DeAndre McDaniel, who went to high school in Tallahassee. Think FSU would like to have him in its secondary right now?

This year’s Duke-UNC game is different than in past years, writes Winston-Salem’s Bill Cole. Tis time there are bowl ramifications.

Florida State’s last home game against N.C. State was its lowest attendance since 1993 . That’s bad news for the local economy. With the departure of longtime defensive coordinator Mickey Andrews, Bobby Bowden said Wednesday that he will be the one who chooses his replacement.

One reason why Georgia Tech is the ACC’s top team is that its tackling has improved, reports Macon’s Coley Harvey. But the Yellow Jackets still have a tendency to give up big plays on defense.

With the season just under way, Maryland basketball has already suffered a setback with the indefinite loss of forward Dino Gregory, according to Baltimore’s Jeff Barker. Washington Post columnist Mike Wilbon has a piece on former Maryland great Len Bias, in the wake of ESPN’s documentary on Bias.

Miami’s defense was not good against Wake Forest last week, but it is hoping to improve against Virginia this week, reports Palm Beach’s Jorge Milian. Jacory Harris knows what mistakes he’s been making. Now it’s just a matter of correcting them, writes Manny Navarro of the Miami Herald.

Tyler Hansbrough may be gone for UNC this season, but Roy Williams isn’t having trouble finding replacements, write Fayetville’s Dan Wiederer. Don’t be surprised if Larry Drew and Ed Davis have good seasons for UNC this year - it’s in their blood.

N.C. State’s Phillip Rivers has become one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks, but the Charger is still looking for his first ring..

Roanoke’s Doug Doughty takes a look at one of the unsung heroes on UVa.’s football team. As new basketball coach Tony Bennett prepares for his first game, here’s a look at Virginia’s schedule

As basketball season gets under way in Blacksberg, Seth Greenberg took some time out to fight a different kind of opponent. Virginia Tech will have revenge on its mind this Saturday when it faces ECU, reports Roanoke’s Doug Doughty.

Wake Forest play its first home basketball game tonight against, and Dion Gaudio expects his lineup to be very big, reports Winston-Salem’s Dan Collins.

That’s all for today. Virginia Tech-ECU tonight, but don’t forget to record The League. I highly, highly recommend it.

Daily Links, Nov. 4

Jim Young | Mailbag

ACCSports.com

November 4, 2009

Another set of links to post while still wondering if the ACC fantasy hoops team I drafted is any good. I’ll have more on that later this week. I know you’re waiting with bated breath.

We start today in Winston-Salem and don’t stop linking until we reach Chestnut Hill. All names in bold are those of recent ACC Sports Journal contributors.

Wake’s running out of time to turn its season around, writes Winston-Salem’s Dan Collins. Oh, and it’s still not clear if Riley Skinner will play this Saturday against Georgia Tech. But other than that, things are great for the Deacs.

The typically stingy Virginia Tech defense is struggling on third downs, writes Richmond’s Darryl Slater. Very interesting blog post by Norfolk’s Kyle Tucker. Apparently he’s taking heat from having the audacity to defend Bryan Stinespring. Now that takes guts, people.

Wow. I knew UVa’s offense was hurting, but I didn’t know it was fourth-worst among BCS conference programs. Yikes. But the Cavaliers have still managed to secure a commitment from a running back recruit, reports Roanoke’s Doug Doughty.

Russell Wilson sounded off on several topics at his weekly press conference and Ken Tysiac was there taking notes.

Winston-Salem’s Bill Cole pointed out yesterday that UNC and Duke will both carry winning records into their rivalry game for the first time since 1994. A Duke-UNC football game with more than just pride at stake. These are strange times, my friends.

The Hurricanes may be 6-2 but that Randy Shannon is still hearing from critics, writes Fort Lauderdale’s Shandel Richardson. Shannon is shortening practices to reduce wear and tear on his team.

Maryland forward Dino Gregory has been suspended for violating team rules, reports Patrick Stevens of the Washington Times. That meant lots of playing time for the Terps’ freshmen big men in their exhibition win over Indiana (Pa.).

The injuries are starting to mount for the Yellow Jackets. Maybe Paul Johnson should check out what Randy Shannon is doing. The offensive line, in particular, has been bitten by the injury bug, reports Macon’s Coley Harvey.

It’s the end of an era in Tallahassee. Longtime FSU defensive coordinator Mickey Andrew announced he’s retiring at the end of the season, reports Orlando’s Andrew Carter. ESPN’s Mark Schlabach weighs in on Andrew’s legacy. Leonard Hamilton played a bunch of players in FSU’s easy exhibition win over Delta State.

Duke played the first half of its exhibition win over Findlay without Nolan Smith. Why? To get used to playing without Smith. Why? Because Smith has been suspended for two games by the NCAA for playing in an unsanctioned summer league, reports Raleigh’s Ken Tysiac.

Clemson defensive coordinator Kevin Steele faces one of his old teams when the Tigers play Florida State this weekend, writes Columbia’s Paul Strelow. Steele was an assistant at FSU from 2003-2006. Greenville’s Ed McGranahan catches up with Tommy Bowden, who’s taking it easy this season but eyeing a return to coaching.

Former BC quarterback Dominique Davis will be playing at East Carolina next season, reports Mark Blaudschun of the Boston Globe. Mark Herzlich has been awarded an honorary Lott Trophy

That’s all for today. Gotta catch up on the World Series of Poker. DVRed it last night. No spoilers, please.

Daily Links, Nov. 3

Beth Mechum

November 3, 2009

Another set of links to post while cursing Pierre Thomas’ name. Maybe it’s time to just give up on fantasy.

We start today at Boston College and don’t stop until we get to Wake Forest. All names in bold are those of recent ACC Sports Journal contributors.

After returning his first career interception, Boston College’s Luke Kuechly was named ACC football’s defensive back of the week.

Defensive end Da’Quan Bowers is doubtful for Saturday’s game against FSU after spraining ligaments against Coastal Carolina, reports Greenville’s Ed McGranahan. It’ll be a big loss this week, but he is expected to play again this season. Anderson’s Greg Wallace writes about coach Kevin Steele’s homecoming at Florida State where he’ll meet up with two guys that gave him a chance: Bobby Bowden and Mickey Andrews. The Tigers probably aren’t too concerned with Christian Ponder’s sore ribs, but they do have his passing game on their minds.

Kyle Singler was the only ACC member to make the AP All-America team, reports Raleigh’s Ken Tysiac. Maybe I’m partial, but really, two guys from Kansas and only one ACC player? Three games later, and Thad Lewis and the Blue Devils are proving they can stand up to the pressure of ACC football, writes Durham’s Bryan Strickland.

Bobby Bowden was surprised at the homecoming attendance at Doak Stadium Saturday, writes Orlando’s Andrew Carter. In the Seminoles’ defense, wasn’t it drizzling or something? Mickey Andrews said a lot of things in his press conference Monday, but what has people most intrigued is what he’ll say about his future today. Christian Ponder is feeling fine after bruising his ribs Saturday, and is expected to play against Clemson, reports Tallahassee’s Steve Ellis.

The Georgia Tech defense could look different on Saturday because there will now be open competition at defensive end, cornerback and safety. The whole team might look different due to uniform choice. Paul Johnson is worried the Yellow Jackets are just too nice, writes Macon’s Steve Ellis. Something tells me Frank Beamer would disagree.

After a week or so of practice, one of Maryland’s bright spots has been its forward play, especially the freshmen. Patrick Stevens of the Washington Times laments the lack of good storylines so early in a season, but his take on most improved players is worth a read.

Miami’s Manny Navarro takes a look back on the Hurricanes’ October. It’d look a lot better without some major injuries, and some minor ones too. Maybe they’re looking for help from somebody not dressed in the green and orange. Apparently Jacory Harris is crediting God with some of his success, writes Fort Lauderdale’s Shandel Richardson.

Here’s an excerpt from Roy Williams’ autobiography, which was co-written by ACCSports.com’s own Tim Crothers. Speaking of Crothers, he’s finally back writing columns for us. In today’s he talks about the experience of working with Williams. Was UNC’s win a fluke? Even if it was, it saved the Tar Heels’ season. They’ll need to win at Duke to keep bowl hopes alive, writes Raleigh’s J.P. Giglio. The main thing is for North Carolina to move forward.

Tom O’Brien is throwing kind words all around to fellow coaches, writes Raleigh’s Ken Tysiac. I bet he has less for his N.C. State squad that’s winless in the ACC. The Wolfpack might be down, but they are not out.

Jameel Sewell could be an incredibly effective player if he spent more time on the field, writes Roanoke’s Doug Doughty.

Virginia Tech started the season running on all cylinders, but lately things have slowed. Now, it’s time to figure out why. Newport News’ Norm Wood is reporting that Lyndell Gibson is taking Jake Johnson’s starting spot at linebacker. Michael Via is also excited about getting his first start, writes Roanoke’s Randy King.

Everyone in Winston-Salem is on the edge of their seats about Riley Skinner’s status. Coach Grobe said he’s improving, but he won’t practice tomorrow, reports Winston-Salem’s Dan Collins. Grobe said Skinner is going to class and doesn’t have a headache. That’s a good sign for the Deacon fans.

That’s all for today. I’ll be taking a day off tomorrow to see The Boss. Can’t say I’ll miss ya.

Daily Links, Nov. 2

Chris Hempson | Mailbag

November 2, 2009

Another set of links to post while wondering where this edition of the Carolina Panthers was all season.

We start today in Winston-Salem and hunt for links until we reach Chestnut Hill. All names in bold are those of recent ACC Sports Journal contributors.

Winston-Salem’s Dan Collins writes that Riley Skinner suffered a concussion against Miami. One that could have a prolonged effect. Apparently, the Demon Deacons’ loss was a gift of sorts to Miami. I didn’t know Jim Grobe and Randy Shannon were basically doing a Secret Santa – only two months early. How cool.

Ryan Williams tried shouldering the blame for Virginia Tech’s loss to UNC. Frank Beamer, though, wouldn’t let him. Roanoke’s Randy King writes that Lyndell Gibson will get his first start this week.

Roanoke’s Doug Doughty reports that a walk-on punter is showing some potential for Virginia. So what if he kicked an 18-yarder against Duke. Here are some grades for the Cavaliers’ performance against the Blue Devils. They look like my report card. Yikes. Charlottesville’s Jay Jenkins writes that the Virginia players are playing for the coaching staff.

Raleigh’s Ken Tysiac reports that N.C. State is dealing with an abundance of injuries on its defense. Thus, some players are playing unusual positions.

Look’s like we’re about to get an excellent Roy Williams autobiography. And who better to write it than Tim Crothers. Here’s some excitement: Duke-UNC is going to be televised on ESPNU. Deunta Williams and his teammates sure had a fun ride home from Blacksburg.

Palm Beach’s Jorge Milian writes that Randy Shannon likes the word proud. If only Shannon could pull out a Super Troopers moment and use it like meow. Former Hurricane Ken Dorsey says the team is on its way back. The Miami Herald’s Manny Navarro gives some postgame thoughts on the game. He even evokes Dennis Green. Nice. Fort Lauderdale’s Shandel Richardson reports that Miami’s defense gave up its most yards in 10 years – and yet the Hurricanes still won.

It’s basketball time in Maryland. I know I’m pumped. Greivis time! Still, the Terps aren’t being ranked highly just yet.

Georgia Tech doesn’t have too many problems right now. Special teams might be one of them, but not for long, according to Paul Johnson. The Yellow Jackets struggle initially on defense as well. But that changed for the last 25 minutes.

As we all are beginning to see, Florida State is going to have to turn every game into an offensive shootout. Tallahassee’s Steve Ellis writes that Mickey Andrews sure thinks highly of Christian Ponder. Jarmon Fortson came up big with a forced fumble against N.C. State.

Even though Thaddeus Lewis is currently on fire at the quarterback position, it’s the Duke defense that is spurring the team forward. Normally, I wouldn’t link this, but look at Shelden Williams. Who saw this coming? Not this guy, but kudos.

The State’s Paul Strelow reports that Dabo Swinney wasn’t going to take any chances. He was going to rest C.J. Spiller early in the game. Spiller may not have been playing, but Willy Korn certainly was. He was sighted in a game! Clemson’s win over Coastal Carolina was a given. The same cannot be said for this week’s matchup with FSU.

The Boston Globe’s Mark Blaudschun writes that BC kicker Steve Aponavicius became the school’s all-time leading scorer during Saturday’s game. Now that’s a cool story. Congrats. Blaudschun also reports that even though the Eagles are 6-3, Frank Spaziani thinks his team could be doing even better – record-wise that is. The Boston Herald’s Steve Conroy writes that BC’s ACC title dream is still extremely alive.

That’s all the links for today. Monday Night Football tonight. Find a couch. Get comfy.

Daily Links, Oct. 30

Jim Young | Mailbag

ACCSports.com

October 30, 2009

Another set of links while trying to figure out what’s more strange - that North Carolina started 0-3 in the ACC or that we all once thought Virginia Tech had a shot at a national title.

We start today with the Eagles and keep posting links until we reach the Demon Deacons. All names in bold are those of recent ACC Sports Journal contributors.

Grant Fitzgerald contributed to these links.

Don’t let those two late interceptions against Notre Dame fool you, writes Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald. Dave Shinskie has made incredible progress since arriving at Boston College this summer. The Eagles’ depth at running back thinned ever more with the news that backup Rolandan Finch is out with mono, reports Mark Blaudschun of the Boston Globe.

Clemson safety DeAndre McDaniel may get a chance to play some on offense, writes Columbia’s Paul Strelow. Coastal Carolina’s coach grew up a big fan of the Tigers, writes Greenville’s Ed McGranahan.

Want to know what Harrison Barnes thought of his official visit to Duke? Well then check out his diary entry about the trip. Note the shout-out to the tour guide. Yep, Barnes is a different sort of cat. Here’s a Q&A with Jon Scheyer. Titanic is a big part of the discussion.

Florida State’s year of shootouts should continue this Saturday, writes Tallahassee’s Steve Ellis. Orlando’s Andrew Carter notes that it’s been almost a year since FSU beat a Division I team at home. Wow. Just … wow.

Georgia Tech is on a roll, but the Yellow Jackets would still like to get off to quicker starts. Being a Georgia Tech receiver means being a team player.

Look for Maryland to start playing more young guys, writes Patrick Stevens of the Washington Times. Some of this youth movement is out of necessity, writes Eric Prisbell of the Washington Post.

Miami quarterback Jacory Harris has been under a lot of pressure this season, but the sophomore is doing his best to stay calm and composed. Ray Ray Armstrong and Javarris James will miss the Wake game.

Embattled UNC quarterback T.J. Yates is not having the year he imagined, but the junior quarterback found some redemption on Thursday night. Here are some more observations from the Tar Heels’ big win. Roy Williams and Mike Krzyzewski may be rivals on the court, but, according to Raleigh’s Ken Tysiac, off the court they have some things in common..

NC State has had FSU’s number in recent years, but the Wolfpack will be missing several key players on Saturday, writes Ken Tysiac. Several Wolfpack players will be going up against their former coach on Saturday, but insist there will not be any hard feelings, Tysiac writes.

Virginia and Duke may be seeing double on Saturday because the two teams are having very similar seasons, writes Charlottesville’s Jay Jenkins. The Cavaliers are looking to get back on track in basketball, and Coach Tony Bennett has one newcomer who is ready for big things, reports Charlottesville’s Whitey Reid.

The air got ripped right out of Blacksberg last night, right along with the Hokie’s preseason goals. Despite his critical fumble last night, Virginia Tech running back Ryan Williams is still well on his way to breaking his predecessor’s record, writes Roanoke’s Randy King.

Winston-Salem’s Dan Collins has the lowdown on a certain Demon Deacon football player who is exceeding everybody’s expectations this year.

That’s all for today. High school football tonight then back to the big boys tomorrow.

Daily Links, Oct. 29

Jim Young | Mailbag

ACCSports.com

October 29, 2009

Another set of links to post while still trying to process the most recent episode of Sons of Anarchy. Man has Samcro gotten itself into a mess … or three.

We start today in Winston-Salem and don’t stop linking until we reach Chestnut Hill. All names in bold are those of recent ACC Sports Journal contributors.

A quick shout-out to Grant Fitzgerald, who contributed heavily to these links

Wake Forest’s Jeff Teague made his first NBA appearance last night and the rookie has been a good addition to the Atlanta Hawks, the Indy Star’s Mike Wells reports.

Need proof that Blacksburg is a football school? How about shutting down the campus for tonight’s football game. The Hokies apparently will be in a bad mood when they take on North Carolina tonight, writes Roanoke’s Randy King. Virginia Tech’s defense had a tough time last game with Georgia Tech’s triple option, but Norfolk’s Kyle Tucker has reason to believe that it will improve.

It will be a quick transition this Saturday for Virginia. After facing Georgia Tech’s rushing attack last week, the Cavaliers face Duke’s lethal passing game. Virginia’s offense has made great strides in the last couple of weeks, but the special teams still has a lot to improve upon. According to the Charlottesville’s Jay Jenkins, Virginia is struggling with making halftime adjustments.

Christian Ponder has been having his way with opposing defenses this year, and Tom O’Brien doesn’t expect his team to slow him down , reports Raleigh’s Ken Tysiac.

UNC’s first Thursday night game didn’t go as planned, Raleigh’s Ken Tysiac reports that Butch Davis is still eager for more prime time games. It’s been a rough season so far for UNC quarterback T.J. Yates, to say the least. His former favorite target Hakeem Nicks was just named the NFL’s offensive rookie of the month for October.

Miami’s Brandon Harris isn’t satisfied by his nation-leading 11 pass break-ups. He wants the ball. Palm Beach’s Jorge Milian reports that Frank Haith will be relying greatly on his transfer point guard Malcolm Grant this year.

With Maryland football on a bye week, here’s a look at 2010 basketball recruit Terrence Ross.

A lot of scrutiny has been placed on officials with recent slip-ups in the SEC, but Georgia Tech’s Paul Johnson is one coach sticking up for the zebras, reports Macon’s Coley Harvey. Defense has been a liability for Paul Johnson this year, but he believes that the defense is starting to show progress, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Doug Roberson reports.

Tallahassee’s Steve Ellis notes that, not only are Florida State’s receivers no longer in trouble, they’re also getting it done on the field. Here’s a story with the same theme by Orlando’s Andrew Carter.

Look for Duke to expand its crunch-time options this season, writes Ken Tysiac. Thaddeus Lewis is still struggling to come to terms with the death of his childhood friend, Connecticut defensive back Jasper Howard.

Columbia’s Paul Strelow writes that Clemson is using its tight end more than it has in decades. Tiger quarterback Kyle Parker may be stubborn, but he’s also a playmaker.

Some Boston College players are not happy with the decisions of Josh Haden and Josh Tuggle to announce their transfers in the middle of the season, writes Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald. Gotta admit, it raised my eyebrows as well.

That’s all for today. Virginia Tech-UNC tonight. Awesome. Which means more Craig James and Jesse Palmer. Not awesome.

Daily Links, Oct. 28

Beth Mechum

October 28, 2009

Another set of links to post while wondering how it got to be basketball season already. Where does the time go?

We start today in Chestnut Hill and don’t stop linking stories until we reach Winston-Salem. All names in bold are those of recent ACC Sports Journal contributors.

Boston College quarterback Justin Tuggle and running back Josh Haden have decided to transfer. Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald takes a closer look at the departures and what they mean for BC.

If Clemson expects to make a splash in the postseason, C.J. Spiller will be invaluable to that run. DeAndre McDaniel has a knack for catching balls thrown by the other team’s quarterback. He calls it luck, Anderson’s Greg Wallace calls it hard work. Michael Palmer is doubtful for Saturday after a nasty head-to-head collision against Miami.

Though Duke is having a hard time running the ball, its passing attack is sixth in the nation. That’s being attributed in part to the Blue Devil’s versatile tailbacks. Duke had the same record at this juncture last year, but Durham’s Bryan Strickland writes that the team is poised for greater success than 2008.

Quick update in the ongoing saga between Florida State Supreme Court and the NCAA. The court denies the NCAA’s motion for a stay, reports Tampa Bay’s Brian Landman. Landman also questions whether Christian Ponder was snubbed when he didn’t make the list of 15 finalists for the O’Brien quarterback award.

The chop block debate continues, and Frank Beamer clarifies his statements while apologizing to Paul Johnson. Interesting Q&A with defensive tackle Ben Anderson. He likes Kenny Chesney and is excited to be in the home of country music Saturday against Vanderbilt. To each his own. Coaches aren’t sure exactly why Anthony Allen has has such a high level of production, but they’re sure happy it’s happening.

James Franklin has to wait a while to coach the Terrapins, but he’s using this time to recruit. It’s hard to win games when there’s not much confidence in third and fourth-down plays, writes The Washington’s Times’ Patrick Stephens.

Sean Spence’s injury could prove painful for the whole Miami team, writes Palm Beach’s Jorge Milian. The loss to Clemson has upped the ante for Miami, whose players say they are practicing with more intensity than before.

Zack Pianalto is listed as probable to play Thursday for North Carolina, even though he suffered a concussion just a week ago.

If the Wolkpack wants to turn things around, it’s got to happen soon. Tight end George Bryan is progressing as a pivotal member of the team faster than anybody thought he would, writes Raleigh’s Ken Tysiac.

Zane Parr had 12 tackles Sunday, and is playing a key role in Virginia’s pass rush, reports Roanoke’s Doug Doughty. Tony Bennett’s first task as UVa coach: get his players to buy into playing defense.

Virginia Tech played Georgia Tech a while ago, but you wouldn’t know it from all the talking that’s happened after the game. It’s safe to say the Hokies still have the Yellow Jackets on their mind.

Wake Forest is finally getting healthy, writes Winston-Salem’s Dan Collins. It’s just in time if Wake Forest wants to make any sort of run in the ACC; their offense needs some help.

That’s all for today. I’ve decided to root for neither the Yankees nor the Phillies. But tonight I will be rooting for Jay-Z and Alicia Keys.

Daily Links, Oct. 27

Beth Mechum

October 27, 2009

Another set of links to post while thinking about how awkward it feels to watch Jim Zorn coach the hapless ‘Skins. Has there ever been a more appropriate time to use the term “dead man walking?”

We start in Winston-Salem and end up in Chestnut Hill. All names in bold are those of recent ACC Sports Journal contributors.

Light news day for the Demon Deacons. One NBA reporter thinks Chris Paul will be a key figure in the league this season.

Virginia Tech used its bye week to get some recuperation time in. John Graves thinks his ankle will be ready for Thursday, and Stephan Virgil continued to move forward in the rehabilitation of his knee injury. Norfolk’s Kyle Tucker writes about Greg Boone’s diminished role as other Hokie receivers have stepped into the spotlight.

Rob Randolph is kicking a lot of field goals for Virginia. That means the Cavaliers’ offense isn’t reaching the end zone too much, writes Ronaoke’s Doug Doughty.

N.C. State freshman running back James Washington is out for the season, reports Raleigh’s Ken Tysiac. It’s halfway through the season, and the Wolfpack are looking for a new beginning., writes Winston Salem’s Bill Cole. Tom O’Brien is hopeful that new beginning included a recharged defense.

Apparently T.J. Yates is feeling heat, and feeling criticism, and my guess: feeling tired of being asked questions about how he feels. Winston-Salem’s Bill Cole writes that the Tar Heels will try to put the disappointing loss behind them and get ready for another Thursday night game.

Before Miami can focus on Wake Forest, the players need to get over the loss to Clemson. At least the Hurricanes have kicker Matt Bosher’s performance to look back on and be proud of.

Gary Williams is expecting big things from the Terrapins this season. Football recruit Matt Robinson had a big weekend.

Frank Beamer says Georgia Tech uses illegal blocks to fuel the high-powered offense. Of course Paul Johnson denies it. (Thousands of Hokie message board members would disagree.) It’s the tale of the two Johnsons this Saturday.

Have you ever wondered how Christian Ponder and Tim Tebow compare? Yeah, me too. Orlando’s Andrew Carter breaks it down for us. Florida State’s much maligned defense is ready for the challenge of N.C. State, writes Tallahassee’s Steve Ellis.

Is Duke the best football team in the state? There’s an argument for it. The Blue Devils are improving while most others are falling or stalling.

The Tigers have a history of letting down after big wins, writes Anderson’s Greg Wallace. Tight ends are bolstering Clemson’s offense, reports Greenville’s Ed McGranahan.

Former Boston College standout B.J. Raji’s ankle looks to finally be getting close to 100 percent for the Green Bay Packers. (Third item.)

That’s all for today. Now to decide who I hate more: the Yankees or the Phillies?

(Ed note: Yankees. Not even close)

Daily Links, Oct. 26

Chris Hempson | Mailbag

October 26, 2009

Another set of links to post while giving props to Manny Acta. He got another job. Who woulda thunk it?

We start in Boston College and hunt for links until we reach Wake Forest. All names in bold are those of recent ACC Sports Journal contributors.

First, two links from ACC’s Operation Basketball. Duke and UNC tied at the top of the preseason poll. Here’s how Jim Young’s ballot compared to the masses.

The Boston Globe’s Mark Blaudschun writes that Rich Gunnell isn’t feeling Jimmy Clausen too much. I can’t imagine someone not liking Clausen. Oh, wait. Blaudschun also reports that yes, beating Notre Dame would’ve been nice. But it has no effect on the team’s master plan. The Boston Herald’s Steve Conroy writes that BC may have found some positives in its loss, but as Frank Spaziani puts it, losing is never ok.

C.J. Spiller may just be the most valuable player in college football. Greenville’s Bart Wright writes that even Kevin Steele was surprised by the amount of points in Saturday’s game. The State’s Paul Strelow reports that Jacoby Ford helped adjust the play that gave Clemson the win. Greenville’s Ed McGranahan writes that it’s pretty simple: Win out, and Clemson’s in the ACC title game.

Ex-Blue Devil Elliot Williams could be playing point guard for Memphis this year. Usually turnovers and penalties doomed Duke football in years’ past. Well, not this day! Aragorn anyone?

Tallahassee’s Steve Ellis writes that Florida State is aiming for more smiles – like the one Bert Reed had on Thursday night. I wonder why. Ellis also reports that a player named “Old School” beat UNC for a 98-yard touchdown. Orlando’s Andrew Carter writes that FSU basketball isn’t getting much respect within its conference.

It looks like the Georgia Tech defense gets inspired by music from Travis Porter. If I only knew who exactly Travis Porter was, this would be all the better .I know who Joey Porter is. I know who Terry Porter is. I even know a Peter Porter. But no Travis. Jonathan Dwyer may be back to 100 percent healthy. Yikes for the rest of the conference.

Maryland’s freshmen big men - James Padgett in particular - have impressed in practice so far. The Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens reports that the weather kept Maryland from running its usual offense. Stevens also writes that the Terps aren’t worrying this week. And why not? They have a bye.

Palm Beach’s Jorge Milian reports that Randy Shannon and Mark Whipple are cool. No beefing there, apparently. The Miami defense came up with several huge plays, but the loss stung too much to acknowledge them.

Wow, thank you Marcus Ginyard. The Duke-North Carolina rivalry gets an early jump this year. Apparently, Ginyard thinks Duke has some dirty players. Here’s a pretty cool gesture: Donald Williams is going to get his jersey hung in the Smith Center rafters.

After replacing Kay Yow as the N.C. State women’s basketball coach, Kellie Harper has gotten very ambitious with her goals for the program’s future. Men’s coach Sidney Lowe wants his team to run and defend.

No matter what the Virginia defense did, it just couldn’t get Georgia Tech off the field, writes Roanoke columnist Aaron McFarling. Not many people can, folks. Roanoke’s Doug Doughty writes that Nate Collins couldn’t rescue the Cavaliers for the second week in a row. He could, however, get 16 tackles. Are you kidding me? That’s unbelievable. He’s a defensive lineman.

Richmond’s Darryl Slater reports that it’s been a little while, but the Virginia Tech basketball team is trying to get back to the NCAA Tournament. Slater also writes that losing his first-team spot actually inspired Hokies wideout Jarret Boykinthe wide receiver.

Former Wake Forest star Chris Paul may be playing off the ball more with the New Orleans Hornets. I know I’m excited.

That’s all the links for today. My roommate returns from India in mere moments. The excitement is too much.