Thursday, September 03, 2009

GAME DAY!!!!

The BEST ACC Football Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:


SEC vs. ACC: League rivalry adds to opener




The Conference Headlines

NC State


Gameday preview: USC vs. N.C. State


For Pack, debut vs. Gamecocks is tailor-made: "N.C. State couldn’t have asked for a better way to start the season."



Spurrier: Gamecocks must have balance to beat Pack: "COLUMBIA , S.C. — Coach Steve Spurrier has made it clear that South Carolina quarterback Stephen Garcia will play the whole game against North Carolina State unless he gets injured"


USC's Saunders makes himself a target : "Gamecocks tight end Weslye Saunders is drawing the ire of the Wolfpack and their fans — just like his father, a newspaper columnist in Raleigh."






North Carolina
Yates, Heels looking for variety in the air: "When North Carolina quarterback T.J. Yates dropped back in the pocket a year ago, he automatically looked for one of hi..."

UNC defense looks to develop swagger



Clemson
Tigers in a rush to rack up sacks : "Da'Quan Bowers says surpassing Clemson's record-low sack total of a year ago will be a family matter."



Clemson opener pits old receiver coaches : "Jeff Scott could not understand why so many media members awaited his arrival to a recent interview. Because as Clemson’s receivers coach, it was explained, Scott figures to be one step away from being a head coach."

More to come.......

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Thursday, September 03, 2009 |

Wednesday, September 02, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Football Coverage!!!

The Conference Headlines:
NCSU
NCSU football game will pit fans vs. commuters: "N.C. State University has a football game at 7 p.m. Thursday in Carter-Finley Stadium, so get ready for a special pre-game feature on the streets of West Raleigh: a rush-hour traffic contest between fans and commuters."

Schools have lots in common :"The two programs that will meet to kick off the college season Thursday night at Carter-Finley Stadium are eerily similar, and their likeness goes well beyond nearly identical records over more than a century each of football."

Pack ready for a show: "N.C. State football coach Tom O'Brien couldn't ask for better exposure as he tries to build his program."


Pack better than Heels - for now: "The balance of power could be completely changed by the time North Carolina and N.C. State meet on Nov. 28, but the Wolfpack is the better team entering the third seasons for Butch Davis at Carolina and Tom O'Brien at State."

Unhappy fans force Pack to abandon its new look : 'After receiving negative feedback from fans, N.C. State has scrapped a new design for its men's basketball jerseys, athletic director Lee Fowler said Tuesday."

Pack CB Morgan will miss opener: "N.C. State cornerback DeAndre Morgan will miss Thursday's season opener against South Carolina with an ankle injury, the school announced Tuesday evening."


North Carolina
UNC defense prepared to take on leading role : "Between the records and SportsCenter highlights, receiver Hakeem Nicks was the face of North Carolina football by the end of the 2008 season."


FIU's Thomas comes full circle: "Florida International has decided it will play North Carolina on Nov. 9 in the Coaches vs. Cancer tournament as previously scheduled, the school announced Tuesday."


Wake Forest
Freshman to play for Deacs : wow...that's different


Duke
Devils 'punching in' at practice: "During the season, Duke coach David Cutcliffe names the days of the week to match the mood he wants set in practice."

Cutcliffe has Blue Devils building up to season kickoff: " Duke doesn’t officially open its season until Richmond visits Wallace Wade Stadium on Saturday night, but the Blu..."
More to come.....

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Wednesday, September 02, 2009 |

Monday, August 31, 2009

It's on.....ACC Football 2009!

Welcome to the new season. Let's jump right in, and, be on the lookout for mobile blogging entries from our group of ACC Sports contributors from across the region.


When They Made It Big: "Ten years ago, Virginia Tech arrived in the big time, riding the arm and legs of Michael Vick to the national championship game."

Sports: Don't-miss games for 2009 : "Staff writer Ken Tysiac of the Raleigh News and Observer has done his homework. Now, he tells you what to expect from the college football season."

The pressure is already on Wall : "Staying humble and hungry. That's an objective set by Kentucky basketball freshman John Wall."

Michigan investigates charges: "The University of Michigan announced Sunday that it has launched an investigation into allegations that its football program regularly violates NCAA rules limiting how much time players can spend on training and practice." Crazy story....

Bowden family won't go gently into that good night


ACC Columnists and General
Jeff Schultz » If ACC wants to get noticed, it needs to step up against SEC

Aaron McFarling: UVa's spread offense equals fresh thinking

Morris: At long last, a title for Tigers : "Give Tommy Bowden credit for putting Clemson in position to challenge for an ACC championship every one of his 9½ seasons as coach. The missing ingredient nearly every year seemed to be a coach who could elevate his team to the championship level."

Linda Robertson Miami Hurricanes will weather recent adversity: "A quarterback exodus. Randy Shannon in coaching-contract limbo. A player's jaw broken when he was cold-cock..."

Furman Bisher » The Case of ACC basketball

ACC Football Spotlight: Coach masterminds turnaround

ACC Football Spotlight: 1st-year coach faces challenges

ACC Football Spotlight: Turner finally clear-cut starter at quarterback

ACC Football Spotlight: Wake's Skinner quiets his doubters


Conference Headlines
Virginia Tech
When They Made It Big: "Ten years ago, Virginia Tech arrived in the big time, riding the arm and legs of Michael Vick to the national championship game."

HOKIES NOTEBOOK: Drager Making the Transition From Offense to Defense

The 'Godfather's' Son Aims to Shine on Field

Va. Tech's Stinespring: Offense should be improved

College football preview: Virginia Tech players, coaches say chemistry is superb

College football preview: The coach-in-waiting game


North Carolina
Ex-UNC receiver earns plaudits from Giants

Mike Paulus is looking to improve on shaky start: "Quarterback Mike Paulus’ debut season at North Carolina didn’t go exactly as he planned."

Tar Heels trim down on defense, look to apply even more pressure: "North Carolina defensive tackle Cam Thomas is a self-proclaimed Southern boy who likes to eat greasy food. But when UNC’s def..."

Cavaliers sign Danny Green:"The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed rookie forward Danny Green, their second-round pick in this year’s NBA draft."


Georgia Tech
Classroom blitz: "Here a handful of Jackets who aspire for more than football glory."

Ga. Tech's receiver Thomas loves Jackets' offense

Are two kickers better than one?

Media guide typo shows UGA tied Tech last year

3 strong Georgia Tech freshmen will impact defense


Florida State
Florida State running backs struggle with assignments: "After watching three of his players go down with minor injuries in the first two weeks of practice, running backs coach Dexter Carter finally has his full complement of five tailbacks again."

Florida State's Louis Givens wants 'to be a spark': "After struggling with a hamstring injury for the first week of preseason practice, senior receiver Louis Givens is starting to regain his form."

Kicking battle going down to the wire at Florida State: " When Dustin Hopkins arrived on campus this summer as the nation's top-rated kicking prospect, it was assumed that the Texas native would be handed Florida State's place-kicker position."

Florida State practices in rainy conditions: "Coaches had been wishing for a wet and nasty practice to see how their players would handle those conditions, and they got it when a steady rain doused the practice fields Thursday."

Florida St. safety Jamie Robinson makes strides at new position: "FSU's Jamie Robinson struggled at times last season with the transition from cornerback to safety, but he's soaring now."

Florida St. safety Jamie Robinson makes strides at new position: "FSU's Jamie Robinson struggled at times last season with the transition from cornerback to safety, but he's soaring now."

Florida State D-line depleted by injuries: "After opening preseason practice with three senior defensive tackles, the Seminoles practiced with none of them Wednesday. "


NC State
Pack's Wilson aims to avoid more injuries: " Nothing could make Russell Wilson forget last year’s visit to South Carolina."


Clemson
5 reasons to be confident in (or worried about) Parker : "It has been 64 years since Clemson has started a freshman quarterback in its season opener, and that player went on to become an All-American by his senior season."

Age is no issue for Tigers' Napier

Game-by-game: Forecasting Clemson's schedule

Grading Clemson position-by-position

Clemson football 2009 depth chart

Veteran Cloy poised to anchor Clemson line

Practice report: Swinney encouraged by kicking

All over but the waiting for Tigers


Miami
Miami Hurricanes' A.J. Highsmith embraces his new role

A.J. Highsmith getting thrust into Miami spotlight

Miami Hurricanes coach Randy Shannon: 'No' to incoming transfers

Miami Hurricanes QB Cannon Smith chooses Memphis: "The University of Miami quarterback transfer saga has come to a close. Redshirt freshman quarterback Cannon Smith, who told UM coach Randy Shannon on Monday he was leaving the Hurricanes to pursue another college, has chosen Memphis as his new school."

Miami Hurricanes' Jimmy Graham continues to impress: "Senior tight end Jimmy Graham, the Hurricanes' former power forward who is playing college football for the first time, continues to be the focus of plenty of buzz around the program."

Burden on Miami Hurricanes' seniors to lift team, impress NFL: "For all the young talent on this University of Miami football team, it's critical the senior class makes a big impact. NFL evaluators will be watching."

UM coach Randy Shannon mum on starters

Miami Hurricanes begin pre-dawn practices: "The Hurricanes had their first 5:45 a.m. practice Thursday under the lights at Mark Light Field, home of th..."


Wake Forest
Paul discovers basketball is the universal language


Maryland
For Terps, 'Mature' Turner Is the Man at Quarterback

Walk-ons defy the odds, make Terps offensive line: "Realistically, Alfonso Gonnella knew he didn't have the money to send his son, Andrew, to play..."

Tracking the Terps: Football team elects its captains

Terrapins Notebook: Coaches Look for Playing Time for Backup QB

Friedgen Has It Under Control

At Safety, Tate's a Big Hit

Terrapins Notebook: Douglas Finds Himself in the Mix at Running Back

Sports Digest: Riley to be Cal's starting QB for opener against Terps: "Coach Jeff Tedford announced that Kevin Riley will be his starting quarterback when No. 12 California opens the season against Maryland on Sept. 5. Tedford made the announcement after practice Monday. Riley had been competing with Beau..."


Virginia
For Cavs, Many Happy Returns

Cavaliers Notebook: Poindexter Returns to the Secondary -- as Coach

Fans Cannot Be Involved in Recruiting, but the Line Blurs

Cavs Looking for Help From Ex-Head Coaches

Cavaliers Notebook: Second Scrimmage Could Bring Shape To Depth Chart

College football preview: Opportunity knocks for UVa's Vic Hall

College football preview: Ups, downs plentiful in Groh's UVa tenure

Former star still shines at UVa


Duke
Duke scrimmages for opener under lights: "The Duke Blue Devils held their final scrimmage of the preseason Tuesday night at Wallace Wade Stadium to help prepare for opening night against Richmond, but some of their stars ..."

Scott steps up early for Devils

Cutcliffe: Blue Devils finally get on track


Boston College
BC quarterbacks starting to score some points

Change a familiar pattern for BC’s Gunnell

BC quarterbacks rusty in scrimmage, coaches left scrambling

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Monday, August 31, 2009 |

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Ok...we're back!

For those of you still around we appreciate your patience. We're back and excited about the new season. Here is todays breakdown.

ACC general articles




BC





Clemson










Duke




FSU








GT









Maryland




Miami











NC State



UVa



VT







North Carolina



More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Tuesday, August 25, 2009 |

Monday, July 27, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Monday

Hectic summer. Having said that, here are your headlines:

The Conference Headlines:
ACC Football Kickoff: Your first look at the upcoming season: "The ACC football season begins in just a little over a month. Staff writers Dan Wiederer and Sammy Batten attended the ACC Football Kickoff in Greensboro to bring you your first look."






Seniors return for unfinished business : "N.C. State's Willie Young, Duke's Vince Oghobaase and Clemson's C.J. Spiller abstained from the normal post-junior-year exodus of top players to the NFL. Their return boosted their teams' prospects for the coming season and all three said they have more to accomplish this fall."

ACC football needs way to boost image: "With Bobby Bowden nearing retirement and his Florida State program no longer an automatic national contender, the Atlantic Coast Conference will begin its 57th year without a clear face for its football programs."

Changes in BCS unlikely: "Even after two Congressional hearings and a plea from President Barack Obama, the Bowl Championship Series won't be changing any time soon."




Wake Forest
Wake returns with veteran offense: "Summer kickoff: Wake Forest has nine offensive starters from last season’s final regular-season game against Vanderbilt return, led by Riley Skinner, the ACC’s most experienced quarterback."




North Carolina
Heels looking for more progress at ACC kickoff : "With construction crews scurrying around the Kenan Stadium Football Center working hard to finish refurbishing the fourth and fifth floors, signs of progress aren't hard to find these days."



Hansbrough gets things started at Indy :"Tyler Hansbrough found himself as a rookie Sunday in a way other than his role as a recent first-round NBA Draft choice."



Duke
Oghobaase ready for senior run : "Duke defensive lineman Vince Oghobaase ranks second among active ACC players with 29 tackles for loss and third with 11.5 sacks, but those aren't the kinds of numbers that drove Oghobaase to return for his senior season after flirting with an early jump to the NFL. "



NC State



Clemson

Sapp eyes early start to season : " Clemson defensive end Ricky Sapp is among those skeptical that a player can regain their full ability within months of a torn anterior cruciate ligament."

Morris: Tigers need fewer mottos, more wins : "THREE BANDS ADORN EACH wrist on C.J. Spiller, Clemson’s senior running back and Heisman Trophy candidate. He says they serve as tattoos since he does not have any of those."

Dabo?s media golf kickoff, from tee to green


Maryland


Virginia





Virginia Tech




Georgia Tech
Scheming to stop Jackets: "Virginia Tech and North Carolina players think they have figured out how to defend Georgia Tech's option offense."



Florida State
















Miami
'Canes ready for showdown vs. Seminoles: "A reporter asked Miami senior Jason Fox what venue in the ACC he considered the most intimidating."


Top 60 Countdown: No. 33, WR Kendall Thompkins : "As we move along further down our list of the Top 60 players at Miami, we take a look at another talented receiver at No. 33: Redshirt freshman Kendall Thompkins. The ..."

Observations from CanesFest :" Even if you don't bleed green and orange, Saturday's CanesFest event at Land Shark Stadium had to be one of the most fan friendly events I have ever covered. Not once in ..."

Kosar, Reed helping Graham's transition to TE : "In his first four seasons at UM, Jimmy Graham was being taught how to improve his jumper, his rebounding skills and how to take a charge. The last four months, however, ..."

Miami Hurricanes linebacker Colin McCarthy ready for big return: "UM Colin McCarthy had big plans for his junior year, but they were scrapped when he sustained a season-ending shoulder injury against North Carolina on Sept. 27."

Miami Hurricanes receiver looks to earn his spot: "Hurricane wideouts have been told that only four or five of them will see extensive action. LaRon Byrd intends to be in that group."

CanesFest brings out the fans again: "Players and Hurricanes followers mingled at Land Shark Stadium, renewing their passion for another season as coach Randy Shannon's team prepares to open its fall camp Aug. 8."

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Monday, July 27, 2009 |

Friday, June 26, 2009

A Return for the Draft

Wow...that was some break we took and we needed it!!!! Here is a little recap of last nights NBA Draft.

ACC has 7 first-rounders
Duke wing Gerald Henderson was the first of seven conference players taken in the first round. He was chosen 12th overall by the Charlotte Bobcats. North Carolina forward Tyler Hansbrough went 13th, the first of four Heels to go in the draft.

NBA draft: Pick-by-pick analysis
As expected, the Los Angeles Clippers took Oklahoma's Blake Griffin (above) with the first overall pick in the NBA draft Thursday night. Memphis selected Connecticut's Hasheem Thabeet with the second pick and Oklahoma City took Arizona State's James Harden at No. 3. In the second round, two players with local ties -- Georgetown's DaJuan Summers (McDonogh) and Miami's Jack McClinton (Calvert Hall) were picked by Detroit and San Antonio, respectively



Michael Jordan interested in buying Bobcats
The Charlotte Bobcats are for sale and Michael Jordan is interested.


Meet your new Hawks
Atlanta finalized its deal for Jamal Crawford (left), then picked up Jeff Teague from Wake Forest in the draft.

Wizards Will Regret Rubio
MICHAEL WILBON The Wizards' draft-night dream could have come true if they'd held on to the No. 5 pick and taken Spanish guard Ricky Rubio.



Duke
Williams could help Memphis
If the decision to relocate closer to home means Duke's Elliot Williams will soon play basketball for Memphis, it would be another sign the school easily can survive the losses of coach John Calipari and player Tyreke Evans, plus possible NCAA sanctions.

New Devil serious about workouts
Desmond Scott arrives at Duke today for the start of his college football career. He'll unpack, meet his roommate and start classes on Monday.

NC State
NCSU builds on success
N.C. State's success in football recruiting this spring and summer was a factor in the Wolfpack getting a commitment from 6-foot-2, 315-pound defensive lineman Thomas Teal on Wednesday.


Boston College
QB backs away from BC
The ever-changing quarterback situation at Boston College was jolted again when Joe Boisture, the junior from Saline, Mich., backed out of the verbal commitment and switched to Michigan State.


Clemson
Like cousin, like brother
While Clemson forward Trevor Booker and younger brother Devin are visiting Serbia and Clemson, respectively, their mother Tracey will be elsewhere.

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Friday, June 26, 2009 |

Monday, May 11, 2009

The Return of the Daily Roundup: Monday

Sorry folks, had to take some time away from the blog. So here we go.....

Getting your mind right:
GREG COTE of the Miami Herald: Former Virginia Tech QB Vick deserves a chance

Mr. College Football: ACC Atlantic: What we still don’t know
Race City USA etches its passion in granite: "Mooresville creates a walk of fame for great NASCAR drivers on Main Street."

Dan Shaughnessy : "Imposing man, even bigger shot - It's the one you shoot in the driveway every day when you are a kid. You do this even if you are a big fella and everybody wants you to play close to the basket. "

The conference Headlines:
ACC teams' academic progress

Some question ACC lodgings: "Conference officials hold spring meetings at The Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island in Florida."

ACC faces big changes

Dan Wiederer of the FayObserver - John Wall carnival still rolling on

Mark Bradley of the AJC: Bradley’s Buzz: More bad news for Georgia Tech hoops


Duke
Devils' Gerald Henderson to sign with an agent: "Duke junior Gerald Henderson intends to sign with an agent and thus eliminate the possibility that he would return to school, according to a FoxSports.com report, but a Duke official said that Henderson is yet to do any official."

Devils still in contention: "Duke standouts Matt Danowski and Zack Greer rank as the all-time points leader and the all-time goals leader in Division I men's lacrosse history."


North Carolina
Tar Heels to meet Obama today : "One of the perks of winning a national championship is a meet-and-greet with the president. Today, UNC's men's basketball team gets its moment with President Barack Obama."

Nicks impresses Giants at minicamp


Georgia Tech
ACC hosts Orange Bowl in new schedule

Murton finds his sweet spot

NCAA academic progress: Tech hoops fails; UGA passes

ACC teams' academic progress

ACC baseball tournament moved from Fenway

Dogs, Jackets adjusting to life in NFL

The stars of spring in the ACC, SEC


Clemson
Recruiting: Manning DB favors Alabama
USC and Clemson will have to come from behind if one of them is going to land standout defensive back John Fulton (6-foot-0, 180 pounds) of Manning.

Tigers switch up duties to reflect new philosophy : "Together, Clemson's Billy Napier and Kevin Steele form a combo that appears to devote substantially more of their attention to recruiting than any other coordinator duo in the ACC, and perhaps most in the Southeast."

Big third inning boosts Tigers : "Clemson scored eight runs on eight consecutive hits in the third inning en route to an 11-3 victory against UNC Wilmington at Doug Kingsmore Stadium on Saturday night."

Clemson tennis routs Tar Heels

Tigers ground Seahawks


NC State
Pack stops Heels: "To keep its slim hopes alive for a bid to the ACC baseball tournament, N.C. State had to pull off the improbable: win its third ACC series of the season against one of the country's top-ranked teams." Big win for the Pack...

Miami

Wall gives UM high marks after visit : "The Miami Hurricanes took their best shot at the nation's No. 1 available basketball recruit this weekend. So, did staying on South Beach and hanging out with Jack ..."


Lamar Miller is scary fast : "Lamar Miller hasn't had a conversation with a University of Miami coach since he attended the spring game last month. It's not because Miller is mad at the Canes, or the ..."


Why John Wall should pick Miami before going pro : "In a little more than a year, John Wall will walk to a podium in New York City, shake NBA commissioner David Stern's hands and walk out a happy 20-year old millionaire. ..."

Virginia Tech
Hokies land 2nd quarterback

Virginia Tech: Players did nothing wrong

Virginia Tech lands star quarterback from D.C.

Tech basketball aide resigns post

Dr Pepper case nets probation

Hokie women add 1

Tech basketball aide resigns post

Dr Pepper case nets probation

Hokie women add 1


Wake Forest
Focus On Golf: Deacs ready for NCAA Regionals

Just for Kicks: Swank, ex-kicker for Wake Forest, to try out for Eagles


Florida State
Florida State softball falls to Georgia Tech in ACC title game »

FSU football right on target in recruiting for 2010 class »

FSU women's tennia falls to Florida in NCAA Tournament »

Live blog: FSU baseball at Georgia Tech »

Seminoles tennis lands in Sweet 16 »

Gast FSU's unsung hero in win »

FSU rallies past Ga. Tech »

A New Orleans adventure for the Seminoles in 1983 »

FSU women's tennis advances »

Former Lincoln standout helps 'Noles tennis into Sweet 16 »



Virginia
Phillips goes to Dallas in second day of draft

Jaguars select Virginia OL Monroe in NFL draft

Virginia's Eugene Monroe: Best yet to come in NFL draft?

Virginia coach Bennett quick to address tempo

Williford back with UVa

Bennett's dad led to McKay hiring

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Monday, May 11, 2009 |

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
From basketball to NFL?: "Greg Paulus hasn't played a down of college football, but the Duke basketball player worked out for the NFL's Green Bay Packers last week." This should be interesting.....


The conference headlines:
John Wall may be eligible for NBA draft: "NBA spokesman Tim Frank told Tom Ziller of fanhouse.com that if Wall applies for 2009 draft eligibility, the NBA will do its "due diligence to determine his eligibility.""

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer: NFL should give a look to ACC backs in 2010 "After a long wait that's likely to continue later this month, ACC running backs are on the verge of regaining significant popularity with NFL scouts."

Wake Forest
Curry invites Alabama youth recovering from cancer to come to New York with him for NFL Draft: "When linebacker Aaron Curry of Wake Forest realized that he would be one of nine players invited to the NFL." He better do something after that stunt he pulled in SI last week listing "North Carolina Basketball" as his favorite team. Class act....way to rub your fans and school's faces in it, Aaron



Georgia Tech
Jackets wrap up practiceTech will strap on pads on Wednesday for last time before Saturday's T-Day game.

Aminu boosts NBA chances: "Hartstein: Former Jackets big man impressive during last weekend's Portsmouth Invitational."


Miami
UM's Santana shuts down FAU, again: "Florida Atlantic University's frustration with playing the University of Miami in baseball continued Tuesday night. The Hurricanes used a strong pitching performance from Jason Santana to shut down the Owls 3-1 in front of 1,603 at Alex Rodriguez Park."

University of Miami tennis star follows family tradition: "UM's Julia Cohen, one of the top collegiate tennis players, is following a family tradition of champions."

UM splits doubleheader against Clemson: "The fifth-ranked University of Miami baseball team hit three home runs, and it held on to defeat Clemson 12-8 on Saturday in the first game of a doubleheader in Clemson, S.C."

Matt Sanders' bat lifts Clemson past Miami Hurricanes: "Matt Sanders went 3 for 4 with a homer and four RBI to lead No. 20 Clemson to a 9-6 victory over No. 5 Miami on Sunday in Clemson, S.C."

Intruders breaching UM's local recruiting wall : "Cover your eyes Canes fans, or just turn away. What you are about to read might burn your eyes and cause your blood pressure to rise. Consider this your final warning. ..."

FSU series has evolved into real dislike : "Florida State and Miami are rivals when it comes to every sport. But there may not be more real hate involved in any of them moreso than in baseball. At least that's ..."

A chat with Kirby Hocutt & more : "Two weeks ago when the University of Miami was on the road in the NIT at Providence, I got a chance to catchup with athletic director Kirby Hocutt and pick his mind on a ..."


Florida State
Florida State offense torches Andrews' defense: "Florida State Seminoles football notebook: Offense torches Mickey Andrews' defense Twenty minutes after Florida State's final spring practice, defensive coordinator Mickey Andrews trudged off the practice fields Wednesday afternoon and met reporters."

Ranking the state's top NFL draft prospects: "Though UM's streak of 14 consecutive NFL Drafts with at least one first-round pick will end, at least a half-dozen in-state players likely will be selected April 25-26. Sporting News draft analyst Russ Lande, an ex-Browns scout, ranked for us the top 10 in-state prospects and projected round:"

FSU's receiver Rod Owens suspended after DUI charge: "Florida State's already-depleted receiving corps took two more hits Monday, as senior Rod Owens was suspended indefinitely and the NCAA denied an extra year of eligibility for senior Corey Surrency."


North Carolina
Scouts: Hansbrough is still 1st-rounder - "North Carolina senior Tyler Hansbrough shouldn't worry too much about what pro scouts think of him."




Virginia Tech
Professional wrestling helped change Hokie LB Jake Johnson: "Virginia Tech linebacker Jake Johnson shows off the large tattoos on his arms. The sophomore-to-be saw action in 11 games last season as a true freshman."



Virginia



Clemson
Tigers' big bats rip the Catamounts :"Jeff Schaus, Ben Paulsen, and Kyle Parker combined for nine hits and seven runs to lead Clemson to an 11-1 victory against Western Carolina in front of 1,249 fans at Hennon Stadium on Tuesday."

Clemson football: 5 issues to solve : "Dabo Swinney jokes he was so flustered with Clemson’s place-kickers early in spring practice that he nearly set up a table at the local grocery store to recruit more kickers." Gallery: Clemson spring game 2009

Check back on QB situation in 3 months :"It is premature to project Kyle Parker as the team’s starting quarterback come August, much less lock him into the spot. That’s not a vote for Willy Korn, either."

Baseball pregame: Clemson vs. Western Carolina : "Clemson (23-12) vs. Western Carolina (20-12) WHEN: 7 p.m. today, Hennon Stadium, Cullowhee, N.C.; 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Doug Kingsmore Stadium, Clemson"

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Wednesday, April 15, 2009 |

Tuesday, April 07, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Tar Heel Tuesday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!

Photo: Congratulations to the North Carolina Tar Heels, National Champions for the 5th Time.

Getting your mind right:
Bob Ryan of the Boston Globe: Tar Heels' hallmark is staying power: "In the last four years, Carolina quietly has separated itself from the rest of the ACC, Duke included. And it didn't take the Heels long to put some distance between themselves and Michigan State, not to mention its hordes, last night."




Goal reached in emphatic fashion: "After North Carolina dashed past Michigan State and everyone else to the national basketball championship, the best description of the 2008-09 Tar Heels' superiority remained the words spoken by Brad Greenberg way back on March 18."


The Conference Headlines
North Carolina
Not even close: UNC rolls to title : "No matter the outcome of Monday's game, Tyler Hansbrough -- one of the most decorated players in school history -- would have left UNC a winner. But by helping shellac Michigan State 89-72 at Ford Field, he finished his career with the pride of being a national champion."

Return engagement ends perfectly : "Bobby Frasor remembers hearing it from the moment Ty Lawson, Wayne Ellington and Danny Green announced on June 16 they were returning for the 2008-09 season instead of leaving for the NBA."

Heels fulfill their destiny : "At North Carolina, basketball has long been about winning championships, clipping nets, hoisting trophies and hanging banners."

Full Throttle: UNC wins fifth title, and second under Williams: "North Carolina's battle-scarred veterans won the one significant game missing from their resumes, defeating Michigan State 89-72 last night in....."

Tar Heels Roll to Fifth Title (Washington Post): "North Carolina completely dominates Michigan State on a near home court for the Spartans, cruising to an uneventful 89-72 win for its fifth national title in school history."


High Heels (Boston Globe): "It was party time for Tyler Hansbrough and his North Carolina teammates after they romped past Michigan State for the NCAA championship."

Lawson steals show: "Throughout Ty Lawson's career, coach Roy Williams has said the North Carolina point guard was only scratching the surface of his ability to be disruptive as a defender."
Jordan speaks on title: "Since he didn't do it when North Carolina won the 2005 national championship in St. Louis, Michael Jordan did not plan to speak to the Tar Heels before they played Michigan State on Monday night for the NCAA title at Ford Field."

Lawson grabs his award: "All eyes were on point guard Ty Lawson's grasp on the Cousy trophy Monday morning when he accepted the award for the nation's best point guard."

UNC seniors end their careers with a flurry: "Tyler Hansbrough, Danny Green and Bobby Frasor were entrusted as stewards of the North Carolina program back in 2005, baby-faced freshmen coming to a school that had just won its fourth NCAA championship."

Tar Heels all contribute in NCAA championship win: "As is tradition, every North Carolina player got the pleasure of climbing the ladder and snipping a section of the net after the Tar Heels claimed the NCAA championship Monday night."

NCAA Champs: "Tar Heels dominate Spartans to win title."

It was a game to remember: "It was there in Danny Green's head-bob and smile during pregame introductions. It was there in Tyler Hansbrough's clenched-teeth chase of the game's opening tap."







Other Conference News

Clemson
USC, Clemson rivalry offers no rest : "If Clemson and South Carolina were looking for a respite from their weekend series against two of the toughest college baseball conferences in the country, they will not find it this week."

Steele tries to mix, match LBs : "Before spring practice kicked off last month, new defensive coordinator Kevin Steele planned to mix and match Clemson’s returning linebackers at the three linebacker spots in his scheme."

Golf: Clemson men leads U.S. Collegiate : "At Alpharetta, David May fired a five under par 67 on Sunday to lead Clemson to a five under par team score of 283 and a one shot team lead after the first round of the United States Collegiate at the Golf Club of Georgia."

Tennis: Tiger women blank Boston : "At Clemson, senior Alexandra Luc won in straight sets in her final regular season match at the Hoke Sloan Tennis Center, and Clemson posted a 7-0 victory against Boston College. ..."


Georgia Tech
Want to return punts at GT?: "Hartstein: Auditions for punt returner continuing as Jackets look to improve at key position."


More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Tuesday, April 07, 2009 |

Monday, April 06, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Championship Monday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!
PHOTO: The winner of the Lawson v. Lucas matchup will determine the outcome.

Getting your mind right:
Hansbrough can cement place in Tar Heel history: "Tyler Hansbrough's career will be defined by 40 minutes. For better or worse. Like it or not."

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer: Running final lap to title: "It's all simple in North Carolina's camp. Unlike opponent Michigan State, the Tar Heels aren't on a profound socio-economic mission tonight to make folks back home forget slumps."



Rochelle Riley of the Detroit Free Press: Thanks, Spartans! We really needed this: "Thank you, Spartans, for more than you know. Saturday's victory tasted sweeter because we've been counting them on one hand lately. This was the second stimulus package that we needed."

John Feinstein of the Washington Post: Final Has an Epic Feel: "Monday night's championship game has all the makings of a David and Goliath classic."

MITCH ALBOM of the Detroit Free Press Pride not pity should be legacy: "It will not save us. No basketball game can do that. No matter who wins tonight, Tuesday morning the jobs still will be gone, the factories still silent and empty, the houses still for sale or abandoned altogether."

MICHAEL ROSENBERG of the Detroit Free Press: The Spartans are underdogs, but does that mean they don't have a chance? :"I have a theory about upsets: They usually aren't as big as we think they are. One team gets overhyped. (Typical headline: "These guys make Superman jealous.") The other team, the underdog, is outstanding, but people don't realize it yet."

It could be another Magical moment for Michigan St.: "All of the following scenarios would work for Michigan State tonight when it plays for college basketball's national championship against North Carolina at Ford Field."

Bob Ryan of the Boston Globe: Hansbrough spurs bull sessions: "He is the most recognizable player on the most recognizable team. All college basketball fans have their feelings about North Carolina's Tyler Hansbrough, and they're not always favorable. He has taken the baton from J.J. Reddick as the Man You Love To Hate."

Lucas and Lawson drive their teams with dazzling quickness : "Ask North Carolina point guard Ty Lawson the first word that comes to mind when he thinks of Kalin Lucas and he doesn't hesitate. "Speed," Lawson said."

Tudor's Take: Title game thoughts


The Conference Headlines:

Falling short in NCAA: "Even if North Carolina gives the ACC its second national championship in five years tonight, the NCAA Tournament continues to produce evidence that the conference isn't as good as it was before it added a 12th team in 2006."


Who's worth their salary?: "ACC coaches continue to make big money. Who's earning their pay? Who isn't?"



North Carolina
For Heels, the dream is now : "The Tar Heels face a Spartans team they beat by 35 points here in December. But Michigan State has since been lifted by the return of injured players and the hopes of an economically depressed city."



UNC goes after fifth NCAA title :"The Tar Heels (33-4), who are gunning for their fifth NCAA championship (and second in five seasons) always expected to be here. That was a motivating factor as to why seniors Tyler Hansbrough and Danny Green, as well as juniors Ty Lawson and Wayne Ellington, chose to put off the NBA for another year." Well....6th if you count the Helms Cup....



Lawson UNC's Brightest Star


'Embarrassing' Loss Solidified Spartans

Roy working hard to keep his Heels humble: "North Carolina can play dumb, ignore what December seemed to have illustrated in painstaking detail and pretend there isn't a gulf between the Tar Heels and Michigan State."

Reality Check: Lawson living out his dream: "There are players, and then there is North Carolina's Ty Lawson. There are dreamers, and then there is Ty Lawson."

End Is Near: UNC seniors seek fantastic finish

Hansbrough, Heels trying to go out on top: "You could see it in Tyler Hansbrough’s eyes late Saturday night. You know, those always intense, always focused, wider-than-the-Detroit River eyes? Only now, after North Carolina’s 83-69 Final Four beatdown of Villanova, Hansbrough’s trademarked stare had a new glint to it."

Roe nearly was a Tar Heel : "Two years ago, Delvon Roe found himself "a pen and paper" away from signing to play basketball for North Carolina, but earlier this season, he got an ink job in the form of a Michigan State tattoo just below his left shoulder."

A year building to this: "Tyler came back ... Ty came back ... Wayne came back ... Danny came back ... For this -- another shot at an NCAA men's basketball championship."

You can see it in their eyes: "You could see it in Tyler Hansbrough's eyes late Saturday night. You know, those always intense, always focused, wider-than-the-Detroit River eyes?"

Heels' haven't seen a close one yet this tourney: "Ty Lawson hates close games. "I don't like close games -- close games are a little more scary than blowouts and things like that," North Carolina's point guard said Sunday ahead of tonight's NCAA Championship game between the top-seeded Tar Heels (33-4) and second-seeded Michigan State (31-6) at Ford Field (WRAL, 9:21 p.m.)."

Taking Center Stage: Heels, Spartans are focusing on just one thing: title


Clemson

Golf: Clemson men leads U.S. Collegiate
At Alpharetta, David May fired a five under par 67 on Sunday to lead Clemson to a five under par team score of 283 and a one shot team lead after the first round of the United States Collegiate at the Golf Club of Georgia.

Tennis: Tiger women blank Boston : "At Clemson, senior Alexandra Luc won in straight sets in her final regular season match at the Hoke Sloan Tennis Center, and Clemson posted a 7-0 victory against Boston College. ... "

Recruiting: Rivals battle for defensive back recruit : "THE OFFERS ARE piling up for defensive back Bashuad Breeland (6-foot-2, 200 pounds) of Allendale-Fairfax, but this still looks like a Clemson-USC battle. He attended junior days at both and found something to like at each place."
Baseball: Leggett notches 700th win : "Deeming a four-run inning to be an offensive onslaught summarizes Clemson’s prolonged labors in the scoring department."




Georgia Tech

Favors committed to Tech: "Nation's top high school basketball player not considering UGA or Calipari, Kentucky."

More Travel with the Jackets: "Here's a guide to help fans plan for the Tech's 2009 football season and games away from the Flats."

Former Tech star has record-setting quarter

Safety Taylor tackles new role in defense

Defense misses shots during Tech scrimmage

Yellow Jackets O-line hit by injuries

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Monday, April 06, 2009 |