The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

We crossed the 50,000 visitor milestone yesterday and just wanted to send a big THANKS to you all for sticking in there with us through a slowwwwww summer. We have some exciting things planned so keep it locked!!!

The Headlines:

Duhon starts hurricane relief fund after his family home in Slidell Louisiana is destroyed by Katrina. Here is the address to make contributions. We're going to give this some permanent space on the blog's front page

Those wishing to contribute to the fund can call (312) 329-0687 for more information or send their donations directly to the Stand Tall Foundation, c/o Chris Duhon, 1151 N. State St., Box 249, Chicago, IL 60610.

The most heralded newcomer in N.C. State's football program this season isn't a blue-chip freshman, a transfer or even a redshirt freshman. He's an old pro. N.C. State is hoping that Coach Trestman, with 17 years experience in NFL, can help spark their passing attack.

Vick's 2nd Chance at Virginia Tech per the Charlotte Observer.

Lineman Overstreet expected to miss season opener for Deacs because of lingering eye injury.

The top 25 according to Carlton Tudor of the News and Observer. A little home cooking for the 4th place Pack in Tudor's top 15, don't you think? Please........beat Eastern Kentucky and Middle Tennessee State and Southern Miss and.......wow.....your schedule STINKS!!! Go play somebody for crying out loud. Just for that, you are now Kansas State University at Raleigh. You don't have to play 3 killers every year ala Coach Dumbing in Chapel Hill, but how about one competitive out of conference opponent?

It's been about four years since Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen and Navy coach Paul Johnson ate dinner together at Famous Dave's restaurant in Annapolis. The two had just left the annual Annapolis Touchdown Club banquet. "I was trying to tell him we should play each other."

Frank Dascenzo of Durham Herald Sun asks "How would the great Wallace Wade rate the Hokies?" For those who don't know who Wallace Wade is, educate yourself.

The Los Angeles Clippers signed second-round draft pick Daniel Ewing on Tuesday. Good for Daniel. They just got a great, great basketball player. I love his game. Now, if only he could speak English!!!! How does a guy get out of a Top 5 school and chop up the English language the way that Ewing does? If Duke is going to wear the crown of King Basketball Academe, then how about getting their 850-950 SAT guys in some speech/English classes. That ought to be embarrasing to them.

Former Miami TE Winslow suffers staph infection, vows to return. That guy has got to mature. He doesn't seem to be a bad person, just incredibly silly. Get back in the game, Kellen!

Is there a Red Sox-BC partnership brewing?

The great Peter Warrick is cut by Cinci. Wow....I liked him a bunch when he was at FSU.

Former New England Patriots offensive coordinator Charlie Weis, a Notre Dame alumnus, is taking on the challenge of restoring the Irish's once-dominant program to national prominence. Not the ACC, but I wish they were. It will be interesting to watch this unfold.

More to come.........

The Daily Roundup-Tuesday

The Headlines:

U.Va.'s Lundy having a 'senior's moment' . With Pearman in the NFL, Lundy again draws Cavs' backfield spotlight.

There are many who want to throw Wake Forest and Duke's programs and facilities under the same bus. That is quite misguided. Wake already has a nice facility in Groves Stadium. Once they are done with these new aesthetic renovation, the stadium will be as pleasing to the eye as their Polo Road campus is. Duke has a long way to go to catch Wake.

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer says that somebody, somewhere, has something against FSU Quarterbacks. That would be hard to argue with. Ever since Wineke left, that position has been quite questionable.

Limited by injuries last season, Georgia Tech senior Eric Henderson is eager to prove to observers that he remains a dominant force at defensive end. He won't have to wait long.

Wolfpack receiver Tramain Hall hopes to get more touches and regain some credibility this year under Marc Trestman, N.C. State's new offensive coordinator.

Special teams played a crucial role in N.C. State's 17-16 victory over Virginia Tech last season in Blacksburg. That most likely will be the case again when the teams meet in their season opener Sunday night at Carter-Finley Stadium. And that puts the spotlight on the Wolfpack's John Deraney.

Ted Roof won't even pretend to be comfortable with Duke's freshmen, but he says the team needs 12-18 of them to play during 1st season. That's not a good sign, Coach. Redshirt everybody but the true stars and continue to take your lumps for two more seasons. Follow the Wake Forest guide to being a competitive program at a small school.

Can Ralph Friedgen turn College Park into Quarterback U. again? It looks like Maryland may have their work cut out for them.

Darrell Blackman thrives on competition and will start at tailback for N.C. State in Sunday's opener against Virginia Tech. Don't read too much into his status or assume it has caused any friction with this backfield. You'll see a whole bunch of those backs this year.

Ex UNC running back Willie Parker will be the likely starter for the Steelers on opening day. You remember Willie Parker, don't you? The guy who couldn't get on the field at Carolina. The who rushed for 200 yards his senior year (and was healthy the whole season). The guy who Bunting suggested on several occasions was not tough enough to run between the tackles. Amazing how this dude can't run for the TarHeels, but can run for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Third stringer at Carolina, but is a two year pro who now has a chance to start and make a major impression. Sighhhhhhhhhh.......Bunting, Bunting, Bunting.

Some of the leg-weary, hurting Hurricanes have returned to football practice the past few days, just in time to be able to go against Florida State in the season opener on Labor Day night. Amazing how injuries get all better when the big game gets close.

Think the state of Virginia lacks football tradition and might? John Markon of the TimeDispatch asks you to think again.

Duke quarterback Mike Schneider can see it now -- fourth quarter, game tied, a minute and a half to go and the Blue Devils have a third-and-6 on the East Carolina 38-yard line. Dascenzo of the Durham Herald Sun thinks that if the Devils are to succeed this year, these scenarios are going to have to come out in a quite uncommon way: In favor of the Blue Devils.

Season opener with the Pack worries Beamer. The Pack's new coordinators have forced Tech to go back to school on a team that defeated them last season. He should be worried. That is going to be one tight game.

More on Duke: What gives the Blue Devils a little hope is the fact that four members of the Blue Devils' offensive line have experience this year and can no longer be called "green." Will it make that big a difference...........doubtful. Hear is some more not so good news for Duke: Vince Oghobaase's college debut will have to wait a week, at least. The prized freshman defensive tackle, who chose Duke over Miami and Oklahoma, will not play Saturday against East Carolina because of a knee injury, Duke coach Ted Roof said Monday.

More to come.....

The Daily Roundup: Monday

5 DAYS UNTIL THE RETURN OF BIRKEL: As most of you have figured out, our schedules have changed a bit. Starting next week, we'll bring you the headlines in the morning and Birkel will bring the afternoon words of wisdom from sports blogs across the country. Individual team commentary will resume and the Blog will be off and running for this college football season.

Until then....

The Headlines:

With Maryland and Navy scheduled to play each other this week for the first time in four decades, all anyone wants to talk about is the one-fingered salute Jerry Fishman gave the Midshipmen during the game on Nov. 7, 1964, after a sideline tackle in Byrd Stadium. Many within the academy were so offended by the gesture, it has been repeatedly cited as one of the reasons, if not the main one, that Navy refused to schedule the Terps until this season. For his part, Fishman isn't ready to apologize. Wow.....i had no idea.

Redshirt freshman Derron Thomas has opened eyes since last spring, and the future -- and maybe present -- of the Canes' running game appears safe.

Scott Fowler asks the question that has often been floated among Tar Heels: Could an all Carolina Team rule the NBA? Nope....no legit inside game to speak of besides Wallace. Don't agree? Take it to the comments section.

In just the second game of his Georgia Tech career, Ajenavi "Ace" Eziemefe, then a true freshman in 2002, rushed for 136 yards and a touchdown on 32 carries in a 21-13 victory at North Carolina. He hasn't been back to that level since. This year, he looks to start.

How about 105 blocked kicks in 214 games? That's the record of Virginia Tech's special teams since the arrival of Beamer.

A strong FSU defensive unit could be the saving grace for a young offense. This was a defense expected to carry the offense during the early part of the season. Then came the loss of its best player, cornerback Antonio Cromartie, as well as starting defensive lineman Clifton Dickson. Brodrick Bunkley. Seminoles should still very well win their division and play for the title.

Virginia Tech Notes from the TimesDispatch.

JR Smith: a Tar Heel today and for life according to the alum who dressed Smith in blue during the game this weekend. He signed a national letter of intent to play at UNC so I guess that's good enough??!??!?

UVa. Notes from the TimesDispatch.

When the Deacons take the field Thursday night to play Vanderbilt in the 2005 season opener, they'll be banking on a fleet of big, fast linebackers to anchor a defense too thin for comfort in the line and too green for comfort in the secondary.

The numbers on Boston College's roster are dwindling. And that might be a good thing. Unlike a year ago, when the Eagles listed 17 true and redshirt freshmen on their depth chart -- the most of any team in the Big East, according to BC coach Tom O'Brien -- the Eagles yesterday listed seven first-year players as backups on their roster for Saturday's season-opener at Brigham Young.

Jimmy Williams, the Virginia Tech star cornerback who passed up big money in the NFL to return for his senior season, is back, but not brash.

Hit you with a little CIAA action. Catawba College's 20 unanswered points in the fourth quarter would prove to be the Rams' undoing on Saturday evening at Bowman-Gray Stadium as WSSU drops a 20-10 decision.

NFL: Maurice Clarett's first stab at the NFL will end the same way his past two seasons on the sideline did: no carries, no yards, one big disappointment. This is going to turn into a never ending saga with this guy. Too bad.

More to come.....

The Daily Roundup: Free Throw Friday

The Headlines:

Maybe $20 million would make the University of Tennessee change its mind about turning down a chance to play Virginia Tech at Bristol Motor Speedway. Bruton Smith, chairman and CEO of Speedway Motorsports, which owns the half-mile track with steep, stadium-style seating, says he will offer $20 million to both schools to play on turf he will install on the infield. Do this....please!!!!!

NCSU unveils the $39 million Vaughn Towers. Next up: an estimated $15 million enclosure of the north end zone that would add 5,458 seats to the stadium.

UVa Notes from the TimesDispatch.

The competition at safety is strong for the TarHeels. That's good, b/c the rest of the squad has me a bit worried.

Malcolm Ruff has changed positions at Duke this season, but not his playing style. Ruff is at fullback, his fourth position at Duke in four seasons. He spent the past two seasons playing two linebacker positions and was a full time starter last season for the first time in his career.

Chuck says that Pack's Blackman tops tailback heap and will start against Va Tech. More on this decision.

An injury to kicker Obi Egekeze gave walk-on Dan Ennis a chance to impress Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen in yesterday's final scrimmage before the season opener, and Ennis took advantage of it.

The North Carolina football team played host to a high-profile visitor Thursday morning. Roy Williams made an appearance at practice and addressed the team for a couple of minutes about halfway through the workout.

Paul Woody of the TimesDispatch says that Beamer's price should "Groh" up in Blacksburg. Nice!

Amato is beaming with pride over the new stadium addition and the direction of the Wolfpack program. Ok.........now let's do something with it, Chuck. You people cried and moaned for years about O'Cain and wouldn't pony up for facilities. Have you done a side by side comparison of the records of those two coaches at State? Not much difference, and O'Cain did it with less. All I'm saying is that it's time to step it up or shut it up!

More to come.....

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The Headlines:

With 10 days to go before the season opener against Brigham Young in Provo, Utah, Boston College conducted its fourth and final preseason scrimmage yesterday afternoon at Alumni Stadium in the hopes of solidifying its two-deep roster.

Ever wonder exactly what a college football team does to get ready for a season? The Raleigh News and Observer spent Wednesday with Duke University's team and got a glimpse behind the scenes at team meals, meetings, weight work and practice.

Bob Lipper of the TimesDispatch on the evolution of the ACC, and the slowing pace of the Florida State Seminoles

FSU was once a college football monster. It's Frankenstein on Viagra now, no longer auto matic, no longer feared by its ACC rivals. Don't get me wrong, the Seminoles still have bite. They're not going 3-8 or 4-7. They're not junk. But they're not worldbeaters, either. They're not leaving the rest of the ACC in the dust.

UVa. hopes for more from their defensive backfield.

It appears that the youngsters at Wake Forest are quite good, even though they fell to the Vets in their scrimmage last night. When do you think Duke will get a clue about how to build a competitive football team at a small school i.e. hire someone like Grobe who is going to install a system that can work with the talent you can recruit? Also, see the job Paul Johnson has done at Navy.

There are few places in college athletics where a team can lose one game and still fall far short of expectations. The UNC Women's soccer team is one of them. Don't look now, but the rest of the field is catching up. Hey....it's all football, right!!!

UVa receiver Ottowa Anderson returns for his senior season after spending last year working in a La-Z-Boy warehouse.

Virginia football coach Al Groh if Ottowa Anderson could be considered a "role model" for the Cavaliers' younger wide receivers. Anderson a role model? My, how times have changed! At this time a year ago, Anderson was nowhere to be found -- literally -- when police attempted to serve a warrant for his arrest. Anderson, who earlier had flunked out of school, was charged with assaulting his girlfriend. "It was just a bad situation that I should have ridded myself of earlier,"

This situation looked pretty bad at the time. It seems that time has changed this quite a bit.

Ronald Curry believes he's close to being his old self after recovering from a torn Achilles tendon that forced him to miss the final four games of 2004 -- and he'll get his first chance to show it in a game when Oakland plays the Arizona Cardinals on Friday. I'll say it again: UNC never deserves to have another athlete the caliber of Ronald Curry grace them. The incompetence demonstrated by that football program at the time (not counting Bunting's 1st year) in developing this guy was simply unbelievable. It is a tragedy that the program will not soon live down on the recruiting trail, especially in Virginia. If you were top talent in Virginia, would you EVER consider UNC after what happened to a guy who is still held in idol status by local high schoolers? Don't agree? Take it to the comments section.

......and just as I say that: Virginia star Ed Barham commits to the Tar Heel football program. Funny.....this guy is not the type of "top talent" I'm speaking of, but the coincidence is amusing.

The Trio of strength at Maryland (their linebackers) understand their mission: 'As we go, so goes the defense.' That may be so, but it appears that there are still lots of jobs on the line as the Terps enter their last scrimmage.

Surprise, Surpirse: Frank Dascenzo of the Durham Herald Sun reports that Skip Holtz is upbeat about his ECU Pirates.

More to come......

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

Updated 10:45 am
The Headlines:

Looks like Florida State will remain the Seminoles after all. Dang it, I was looking forward to the school replacing the spear on their helmets with the androgeny symbol!!!!!!

WFU's hopes for a better season rest on its offensive line.

Virginia Tech coach insists that his aides be given raises as part of his next contract. I like that!!!
The 2005-2006 ACC Hoops Schedule. A break down by the N&O.

UVa. co-captain Tony Franklin, a fixture in Virginia's secondary for the past 1 1/2 seasons, could be coming at opponents from a different angle this season.

ACC officials practice their new instant replay procedure at Duke scrimmage high in the Wallace Wade Stadium press box. This is how it will work for the '05 season.

ACC notes from the Times Dispatch.

North Carolina Central is trying to decide whether they should make the move to Division I. Let me answer that for them. NO!!!

Duke lists Marcus Jones as a quarterback/athlete in its football media guide. This kid has star potential and they need to take full advantage of his speed and quickness.

Cinci gives Hugg's the boot. I don't like this kind of politics. They should have fired the guy 4 years ago when he was out of control and graduating 0% of his players. By all accounts, he has turned a positive corner in his life and is now actually graduating some of his guys. I understand the DWI concerns, but they should have acted then. This just smells bad to me. Don't agree? Take it to the comments section.

Frank Dascenzo of the Durham HeraldSun says QB's don't need to be babied. That's right! Take those red jerseys off and man up!

When Duke's football players trotted off the Wallace Wade Stadium turf after Tuesday's scrimmage, the Blue Devils left one phase of preseason practice behind and looked forward to the next.

More to come........

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

Updated at 11:45 am
The Headlines:

After an often cantankerous two-year struggle to expand ended earlier this summer when Boston College officially joined Miami and Virginia Tech as transplants from the Big East, the ACC is finally whole. Let the games begin!

Hokies offer Beamer $2 Million!!!

There are high expectations for TarHeel running back Barrington Edwards. If he doesn't produce, Carolina is going to hit the bottom a lot harder than is already predicted.

The Packs Stone watches, learns, and stays ready. I get the feeling that this guy is going to see some very significant playing time this year.

It seems that 'Ol Roy has decided to pass on the 6'10 Turkish wonder who, apparently, is also considering Indiana. Might this be directly connected to the apparent qualification of Winston-Salem big man, Mike Copeland? It appears that even that is not a done deal at this point.

The Miami Hurricanes spent the end of their practice Monday night in the shrouds of darkness, but that changes tonight when they scrimmage under the bright lights of the Orange Bowl.

Very quietly Georgia Tech senior cornerback Dennis Davis has played through fall practice and is quite comfortable going into the season.

Deacons fullbacks are back in the picture as McWhite, Belton and Winfrette give Wake depth at this key position.

Florida State DBs listen to James Colzie because he speaks from best possible place: experience.

The Fridge tries to get Terps up and running after a rash of injuries.

Beamer makes stopping kicks a high priority and uses some of his best performers to do it.
More to come.......

The Daily Roundup: Monday

Updated at 11:30 am
The Headlines:

One week after the University of Miami offense looked much improved in the first scrimmage of fall camp, Hurricanes coach Larry Coker said that same offense was ''just bad'' in the second scrimmage on Saturday morning at Greentree Field.

Carolina's Jarwarski Pollock will play the slot this year and continue bringing toughness to the Heels receiver corps.

UVa. football notes from the Times Dispatch.

Former Virginia defensive back Jamaine Winborne is counting his blessings and trying to make the Baltimore Ravens.

FSU tailbacks have faith in their offense.

Jackets get chance for "special" attention. Just ask Gary Guyton, who was just another young player toiling on special teams last season until he flattened a Virginia Tech defender with a snot bubble block on a punt return.

According to his family, Mike Copeland will be joining the Tar Heel basketball program after making a qualifying SAT score.

Virginia cornerback Tony Franklin could go back to his old high school spot and play safety for the Cavs in '05.

On the eve of Florida State's second scrimmage of the preseason, Bobby Bowden announced that sophomore Chase Goggans would be given a shot at winning the kicking job

Hollenbach gets nod as Terps' starting QB.

UNC's Page and Seagraves get one last crack at collegiate football together after recovering from injuries.

After a very impressive scrimmage showing, Clemson freshman James Davis apologizes for leaving the team and missing practices. Apparently, the she caught a case of home sicknesss.
Beamer wants new deal to share wealth. The Hokies' head coach says any contract he signs will also include big raises for his assistants.

When something is broken, you fix it. Nobody knows that better than Andy Roland, Duke's 6-4, 235-pound fifth-year senior tight end, who has experienced more different offenses than most players do in their college careers. He's hoping that Version '05 holds the key to victory.

Backup QB Bozich is not giving the Carolina coaches much insurance as they continue to look for a suitable player to relieve Baker.

Wake Forest looks a little weak in the secondary heading into the season opener against Vandy.

Even with the much hyped Barrington Edwards in the backfield, the Heels running game looked quite spotty in their scripted scrimmage over the weekend.

More to come......

The Daily Roundup: Free Throw Friday

Updated at 10:00 am
The Headlines:

Injuries are biting the Terps, and frustrating the Fridge.

Memorize this, if you haven't already. The new-look ACC has two divisions - the Atlantic Division and the Coastal Division. Teams will play every opponent in their division and one primary crossover opponent every year, plus two rotating opponents from the other division. Got it?

NC State now boasts six back of backs. I must admit, if the talent hype is determined to be true, that backfield will, indeed, be quite a challenge to stop.

Despite the bad news at quarterback, FSU should still prove plenty strong.

While Roy Williams waits on Mike Copeland to qualify, the Tar Heels have apparently made preliminary inquiries about adding a big man from Germany to their 2005-06 team.

Upon further review, ACC coaches say they are behind the idea of instant replay.

Surprise, surprise, surprise: Randy Moss admits to pot use "every once in a blue moon."

Injuries, grades, and the law could end any hope of Georgia Tech contending this year.

With Andre Maddox, Lamont Reid and Dovonte Edward gone, Wolfpack searching for starters to fill vacancies in defensive backfield.

Virginia Tech is looking to repeat. They have a tough opener with the Pack. If they win that one, watch out!

UNC Sophomore Roger Heinz, the only eligible backup quarterback in training camp who has taken a snap in a college game, missed his third straight day of practice Thursday because of a sore back.

For the second straight season, Duke coach Ted Roof knows he's going to have to count on some true freshmen to contribute at wide receiver.

While the ACC's newest members should rule, they will have some very tough challenges.

More to come.....

Updated 9:00
The Headlines:

Word has it that the NCAA has ended its dispute with the NIT by forking over almost $60M to buy the broken down franchise. How about this: Keep the preseason tourney and make the post season NCAA tournament a double elimination affair with the NIT tournament serving as the losers bracket. I haven't looked at exactly how that would work from a brackets standpoint, but it could be interesting. Other ideas? Take them to the comments section.

Former Wolfpack DB, Andre Maddox, plays these days for his father.

Dukes Dargan refused tho let injuries stop him.

Virginia Tech's Duane Brown is already established on the football field. Now he's looking to become the latest football/basketball double threat. At 6'5 278 lbs, he could make some noise.

Despite critics, Coach Groh at UVa. is taking a more patient view of his much maligned receiver corp.

Since we're talking about UVa., who will backup QB Hagen if he goes down? Coach Al Groh would like to know just as much as we would.

In other NCAA news, UConn suspends guards Williams and Price for a little USC style laptop computer theft.

Virginia Tech star Daryall Tapp has said that he will play wherever the coaches need him. That might very well mean making the move from defensive end to tackle.

Frank Dascenzo of the Durham Herald Sun says that Phillip Rivers' pro career has been set back by awful timing. Don't worry.....Mr. Rivers will be in the NFL for many years.

Roof says that time is a ticking on this Duke football team and that they need to develop a sense of urgency. Hmmmmmm....seems like we've been hearing the same story on these guys for....ohhhhh....15 years.

Wake's Tucker is unmoved by his transition from defensive end to tackle.

City embraces NASCAR in hopes of bringing their Hall of Fame. Don't you think with 90% of the teams being located in the Charlotte area that it's pretty clear where the hall should be?

WSSU'a Champaign works his way back after being kicked off the football team last year.

OK, so I've ignored the states NHL franchise long enough: Canes aim to fill seats again.

More to come ........

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

Updated at 11:54 am
The Headlines:

North Carolina running back, Barrington Edwards, finally gets to do his talking on the field.

ACC Football Roundup from the Charlotte Observer.

Heat-related setbacks this summer have not deterred Canes junior wide receiver Ryan Moore, who's ready to turn his game up a notch.

ACC still climbing in football.

Virginia Tech Notes from the Times Dispatch.

Scott Fowler says that the Eagles ordeal won't go away if TO stays. They may win a Superbowl, but the headache will definitely remain.

UVa. notes from the Times Dispatch.

Georgia Tech notes from the Macon Telegraph.

New Duke offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien has decided to use a melting pot style offense in order to turn the Devils fortunes.

FSU coaches are all excited about another North Carolina player who left home: Freshman linebacker Derek Nicholson.

How about a game between the NC and SC 4A High School State Champs? It could happen this year as both teams need a game and have the same open date. That would be a nice game to have every year aside from the Shrine Bowl game.

The Deacs Justin Gray speaks on his time representing the USA in the World Championships.

Ohhhhh, Wolfgang, looks like UNC's young Paschcal will be back after all. Charges dismissed by the Orange County DA (who happens to be a Carolina undergrad and law school grad and loves the Heels. Hey, I'm not implying a thing......I'm just saying. He's a very good guy and an exceptional DA) in exchange for a "deferred prosecution.

Wake Forest Notes from the Winston Salem Journal.

Season ending injuries to Henderson and Heyer for Terps and the Fridge to adjust.

Looks like the Devils will have a true freshman taking over their kicking duties. If history in any indicator, he'll be getting a lot of work.

Chase Page is back in action for the Heels after a bizarre practice injury ended his '04 season.

Wake QB Corey Randolph has lost his starting job, but gained the respect of his coaches and teammates.

More to come........

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The Headlines:

Frank Dascenzo of the Durham Herald Sun gives his thoughts on the upcoming ACC football season.

North Carolina's top player, Eric Wallace, gives up on the idea of moving to St.Marys in Cleveland for his senior season and will remain in Winston-Salem. Good move, Eric.

Two more Wolfpack players, Raymond Brooks and Chip Cross, are gone for the season for unspecified reasons. Brooks will be missed while Cross seemed to be practice fodder.

Wake senior (and Carver High School graduate) Goryal Scales will be counted on to anchor the Deacons defense.

David Poole of the Charlotte Observer says that the NASCAR Hall of Fame location is a done deal for the folks in Kansas City. KC invested a whole lot to get the track they have and they desperately want another race. Speculation is that the Hall of Fame was part of a under the table bond deal when the track was built. If they get the Hall of Fame, don't you think that the All Star Race currently in Charlotte (along with a made for TV induction ceremony) will be soon to follow? Brace yourself, Charlotte. You're getting ready to lose a race and a Hall.

Staying sharp: Wolfpack cuts back on two-a-days.

Chris Duhon has come up on loot! Bulls match Toronto's offer sheet and sign the former, much maligned Blue Devil to a 3 year, $9 million deal. I remember so many Duke fans who talked poorly about this kid when he very well could have left after a highly productive freshman year. He was another victim of the Coach K system. Good for these guys, and K, that Duke basketball has branded itself as the official "stamp of approval" for developing sound collegiate basketball players.

Cary High's Josh Adams is a kid that the nation is after on the football field. Let's see if the North Carolina schools can keep one at home this time.

Then again, there is always the norm: In state stand out Raeshon McNeil spurns in state schools for playing time and "academic reasons" to attend Notre Dame. Great football history and tradition, great academics. Hard to argue. Another one bites the dust!

Senior Warrick moves to Duke's Offensive line after spending his career on defense.

A broken ankle ends Xavier Rainey's football career at UNC. An English major, it appears that he will continue on at UNC and work toward his degree.

Moore to come.......

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The Headlines:

A fresh start for Virginia Tech's Marcus Vick.

Ron Green of the Charlotte Observer on the farce that is Duke and "Big 4 Football" more generally.

Davis' confidence is key to the fortunes of NC State during the '05 season.

The linebacker position at UNC has finally been rebuilt and for the first time in many years, looks like a strength for the '05 Heels.

Georgia Tech's Tashard Choice made a move back home from the Sooners in a nod to family. Nice read.

The Wolfpack D is long on talent but lacks experience in certain areas. I'll take talent any day of the week. These guys were great last year and I believe will be very strong again in '05, no matter their experience.

Speaking of linebackers, the Team Formerly Known as the Florida State Seminoles may have one of the best in the nation in Buster Davis. He has matured and is ready to go.

NFL - This much is clear after Carolina's preseason victory over Washington: If they can stay healthy, they are going to be very, very good.

How about a few words from Clemson on their Saturday scrimmage.

Terps top offensive lineman, Heyers, tears his ACL and may be lost for the season.

The Devils Den goes one on one with starting Duke QB Mike Schneider to discuss Dukes chances during the upcoming season.

More on Maryland: The Fridge keeps his players on the run during practice.

Audio and quotes from NC State's Chuck Amato during the Wolfpack "Day of Champions."

Virginia Tech notes from the Times Dispatch.

UVa. rookies are really showing their goods in their NFL preseason games.

Wake's Kenny More talks about his shoulder injury and prospects for recovery.

More to come......

The Daily Roundup: Free Throw Friday

The Headlines:

Now, for the 6th story on UNC QB Matt Baker: It's Baker's Turn!

Tiger not off to a good start at the PGA.

After being shelved for much of last season, Virginia's Darden hopes to make an impact in '05.

Ball's goal for the year is to lead the Yellowjackts back into contention.

Wake gets a commitment from West Forsyth linebacker Kyle Jarrett.

Virginia Tech Notes from the Times Dispatch.

TO says that his attitude regarding his contract is not going to change. Ashely Fox says if that is the case, the Eagles should trade him or cut him. The Eagles have now set the ground rules for his return. I say he's right to ask for the $$$ and the Eagles are perfectly within their rights to refuse. Tough situation.

Hokies hope to find the right fit at the rover position.

Wake punter Plackmeier is hoping that red shirt freshman can relieve him of his kick off duties.

Former NC State star Phillip Rivers throws a 34 yrd TD, but Favre is Favre. Packers win!

The Daily Roundup - Thursday

Updated at 10:30 am
The Headlines:

Pack brings in three refs this pre season to help them hone their penalty prone team.

Duke and Carolina lead the way as the ACC posts their Academic Honor Roll. I wish they would rank the schools by percentage of athletes making the team and not by total athletes. It may throw things out of wack for a school like Wake Forest who ranks near the bottom of the conference on this list with only 130 athletes making the cut. How many varsity teams does Wake field compared to Maryland or UNC? I'd rather see a percentage rank than a totals ranking.

The reinstated James Pickney will work as the #1 QB for ECU.

Bob Lipper: NCAA ruling on mascots out of bounds.

T.O. gets heated, booted from Eagles camp.

A year after Mich Harris' death, Duke offensive tackle John Moravchik will wear the number #79 to honor his memory.

UVa. notes from the Times Dispatch.

Duke defensive lineman Alexander is back after a broken leg bigger and stronger.

Think FSU supporters respect the Seminole Tribe and the trials that Native Americans endured? Try this comment from an FSU trustee on for size

Unlike Florida's Seminoles -- who supported FSU recently in a rare written resolution -- the tribe's members in Oklahoma are less enthusiastic of the ''Scalp 'em'' refrain in FSU's fight song and its flaming spear-throwing mascot, Chief Osceola. ''They got run out of here by, who was it, Andrew Jackson? The Trail of Tears. The real Seminoles stayed here,'' McFarlain said, echoing statements made last week by former state Senate President Jim King, an FSU booster.
David Narcomey, an Oklahoma Seminole opposed to the use of American Indian imagery in sports, said comments such as McFarlain's are ignorant but telling.

Exactly: Ignorant, but telling. FSU might really have the law on their side, but poor timing, a big mouthed trustee, and a vocal sense of entitlement will undo their case if they are not very, very careful. The best thing for them to do is to not handle this in the newspapers, encourage alum and supporters to keep their mouths shut, and reign in (or REMOVE) stupid board of trustee member's.

Hurricane walk-on Trey Burklin feels that he can step in and play the QB spot for The "U" if called on to do so.

Freshman Richard Graham reported to Virginia Tech's camp with more weight, more endurance, and ready to contribute wherever the Hokies might need him.

It's official: Wake's Swanson and Barclay have been reinstated and are back at practice. However, both will miss the opener against Vandy.

Bobby Bowden and his FSU staff are keeping an open mind and a keen eye on the talent rich running back position. They'll have a good one, count on it.

More to come...........

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The Headlines:

The Headlines: It’s heating up in Florida as the governor weighs in on the situation with the NCAA ban on Native American mascots and its impact on The Team Formerly Know as the Florida State Seminoles.

"I think it's offensive to native Americans ... the Seminole Indian tribe who support the traditions of FSU," Bush said on his way into a Cabinet meeting. "I think they insult those people by telling them, 'No, no, you're not smart enough to understand this. You should be feeling really horrible about this.' It's ridiculous."I’m telling you, have Prince open up the season, paint the androgyny symbol on the side of their helmets…..

Roof says attention to detail is a must for the ’05 Blue Devils as they prepare for the season.

ACC Notes from the Times Dispatch.

Now that FSU defensive lineman Andre Fluellen is convinced that he can play with the big boys, the league may be getting ready to witness his coming out party.

The “U”’s Tony Tella may be out for a little while as he arrived to practice yesterday in a knee high cast.

Spurrier: “I don’t say, I promise.” Nice.

How about a few Virginia Tech Notes as well.

UNC seeks in state talent early while NC State often waits on the “big” recruit. A look at rival recruiting tactics.

At 6’6, 318 lbs Virginia freshman Eugene Monroe cuts a very large figure and plans to have a big impact for the Cavs this season.

Bobcats look to win over fans and cultivate support.

Wake Forest has a five way fight for the starting tailback position for the Deac’s season opener against Vandy. That’s nice, but Mr. Barclay will come out the long term winner in this battle.

Duke picks up four more recruits in an ever growing recruiting class. More to come.......

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

Updated at 9:50
The Headlines:

Bill Plaschke says "It's about time" to the NCAA and their ban on offensive Indian names and mascots at NCAA tournament events. This is a very interesting note on FSU and their relationship with the Seminole tribe and, I believe, places them in a somewhat different category from a practical and social standpoint

While the NCAA has no jurisdiction over the conference-ruled Bowl Championship Series, look for the football playoff folks to eventually follow suit. And wouldn't that be fun for Florida State then? Although, officially, the Seminole Tribe of Florida has no problem with it. Known as the unconquerable Seminoles, it is the only tribe that never lost a war and never signed a treaty. It carries huge weight in their state, particularly in Tallahassee, where tribal consultants have helped the horse-riding Seminole mascot remain true to their heritage. Said Max Osceola, a tribal council member: "We have a great relationship with the university, we think our tribe is represented well." Said Red Cloud: "I'm glad for them. But very few tribes are like that." Said Osceola: "I agree, I am angered by many other things I see, I can only speak for us."

That being the case, why does UNC-Pembroke (Braves) get a pass and FSU doesn't? I understand that historically UNCP was chartered for Native Americans students and has a 30% Native American right now, but it seems that FSU has formed, if nothing else, an agreeable business relationship with the unconquerable Seminole tribe. Perhaps FSU should just pull a Prince and for one school year actively promote themselves as "The Team formerly Known as the Florida State Seminoles."

That would be too funny, classic, and for their situation only, I believe completely appropriate.

Walk on linbackers Grimm find happiness as Hokies.

UVa. notes from the Times Dispatch.

Are these criminal Gamecock players serious? Apparently, a couple of the guys feel that they they were "mislead" b/c the 'Ol Ball Coach told the team that if the equipment they stole was returned to the stadium, none of the guys would face criminal charges. Whatever guys.....go to jail, or at the very least, don't make yourselves look like bigger dumb asses than you obviously are.

The Winston Salem Journal reports that Duke has signed "3 Georgia stars" to football scholarships. One of the guys has been clocked at 4.2 40 speed. I've got to see these stars to believe it.

Team player Hussey puts off graduation from WSSU to help the school win a championship.

The Blue Devil football team start their drills for the '05 season under the lights. Sighhhhh......

Jim Grobe is looking forward to bringing the heat through full contact practice for his Deacs.

Brandon Gore is in the mix for a starting spot on the Virginia Tech OLine.

Offense is the priority for the Terps as their practice season starts.

More to come.........

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The Headlines:

Wake Forest's Robinson uses a nasty on field attitude to make up for his lack of size.

Justin Gatlin dominates the 100mm at the World Championships. This is pretty impressive stuff

The 23-year-old Olympic champion bolted away from the overmatched competition Sunday night to win in 9.88 seconds, 17-hundredths of a second ahead of runner-up Michael Frater of Jamaica. The margin of victory was the largest in the 10 world championships that have been held since the meet's inception in 1983.

Former UNC QB Durant has been very popular in the Ravens camp, but still faces long odds on making the cut.

Wolfpack get after it during their first practice. Chuck seems happy.

This is how a 57 year old coach can impress his players (or break his neck). The Larry Coker school of motivation.

The states top recruits say they would like to play in North Carolina, but at the end of the day must make the best career decision for themselves. Hard, but fair. The schools in state simply have to do better at making these programs highly viable options.

Former Duke leaper Robert Brickey will lead Shaw University as their new head coach. This dude could jump clear out of the gym. I was at the Duke v. Carolina game in 1986 or 87 when this guy dunked on Scott Williams from one toe inside the free throw line. I was in the Carolina student section jumping up and down, screaming in excitement for at least 3 minutes. Needless to say, the natives were not pleased. Hey, a nasty dunk is a nasty dunk!

Charlotte has gone the JUCO route in basketball, and it has worked out quite well for them.

Looks like the Pack got them a good one in QB Burke. He even cited NC States academics as a reason for coming to Raleigh. Now I KNOW they are cheating and lying in Raleigh! Just kidding, Wolfgang. Some of my best friends went to NC State. I like you people :-)

Dan Marino and Steve Young enter the NFL Hall of Fame.

With 3 incumbents and 3 impressive newcomers, NC State is going to have some real options in the backfield in '05. Any get the sense that they won't miss my man T.A. one bit?

Maryland hopes to revive their offense in '05 with a balanced attack and improvement at the QB position.

Wake's guys are a little banged up right now, but they are still walking and getting ready.

This is interesting: Freddie Jones retires "for family reasons" before ever playing a down for the Panthers. I heard this guy on talk radio in Charlotte just last week and he sounded very upbeat. I'm sure we'll learn more as the week progresses. Good luck, Freddie!

Virginia Tech Notes from the Times Dispatch

Despite the tight summer school schedule, the Cavs manage to squeeze in one more telling practice.

The 'Ol Ball Coach says that it's time for his Gamecocks and their supporters to turn down the volume and show some restraint while this team proves they can play, and win. Hmmmmm, I think I know of another football program about 170 miles to the Northeast who should take that same advice. Here is proof that my advice is being heard and followed on the State College campus.

Georgia Tech's Paul Hewitt gets a well deserved contract extension.

The "U" struggles under the glaring heat of the Miami sun, sending several players to the hospital

Despite the loss of Sexton, FSU Offensive coordinator Jeff Bowden is upbeat (and happy his daddy's name is Bobby). This dude should not be the OC for FSU. Just my nickel.

More to come.....

The Daily RoundUp- FreeThrowFriday

Updated at 11:40 am
The Headlines:

The NCAA bans Indian mascots, nicknames from postseason events. According to the piece, the NCAA banned the use of American Indian mascots by sports teams "during its postseason tournaments, but will not prohibit them otherwise." Of particular note

The NCAA plans to ban schools using Indian nicknames from hosting postseason events. Harrison said schools with such mascots that have already been selected as tournament sites would be asked to cover any offensive logos.
Such logos also would be prohibited at postseason games on cheerleader and band uniforms starting in 2008.

For once, it appears that the NCAA may well be on the right side of an issue. Don't agree? Take it to the comments section

Winston Salem State University will open practice today for their final season in the CIAA. The Rams move to Division I-AA next year in the MEAC (and, word on the streets is they are setting up series with Wake Forest. More on that later).

The scoop on Vince Williams' departure from UNC via the Durham Herald Sun.

Virginia Tech insider Randy King says that the Hokies will hear lots of talk this season from Coach Beamer about the Pats and the Spurs. This is nice read.

Lenox Rawlings of the Winston Salem Journal: BCS credibility may still be in question.

Doug Doughty, UVa Insider from the Roanoke news, says that although the 2 deep at UVa. is ready, you just can't put a lot of stock in it this early.

Ohhhh, NC State took a hit yesterday when one of their JUCO transfers didn't make the grade. Tough break, Pack. Both UNC and State took one to the nose with the loss of Crezdon Butler to Clemson. The state schools just have to do a better job. I don't know what else can be said about it.

Primed to face FSU, players report to camp at The"U".

Georgia Tech seeks consistency as they open practice for the '05 season

"We know that for us to take it to the next level, it's a matter of us coming out with a consistent level of focus every week, regardless of who we're playing," middle linebacker Gerris Wilkinson said.
"We like being underdogs and winning those games we're not supposed to win, but then we when we play somebody we're supposed to beat, we play down to their level or come out without the kind of intensity that we need to have."

Virginia Tech's Cary Wade is Wade ready for work. This is the time to shine for Hokies junior as he battles with Rouse for starting spot at rover.

The youngin's at UVa. are going to see the field this year as the influx of freshmen gives Cavaliers more bodies than experience.


More to come .........

The Daily Roundup - Thursday

Updated at Noon
The Headlines:

The NCAA will discuss the American Indian mascot issue today. Obviously, this may have a direct impact on the FSU program. Thoughts? Take them to the comments section.

John Bunting thinks the UNC schedule is a challenge. I disagree: the lack of consistent coaching and talent building is where the challenge has really been. I like the tough schedule, but I'd rather have a coach who shows that he is competent from week to week and players year in an year out who look like they belong (from character to skill). Carolina has come up quite short in that department over the past 4 seasons. It looks like it has happened again with the transfer of alleged superstar in the making, Vince Wilson. I say it again: Look at Maryland and UVa, then look at Chapel Hill. Case closed. Don't agree? Take it to the comments section.

Since we're on Tobacco Road, how about a little Q&A with the "Chest" over at Florida Sta.....my fault, I mean NC State.

FSU hoops heads overseas to get a jump on the season.

Tom Sorensen on Wake Forest great Muggsy Bogues taking over the Charlotte Sting. Interesting selection. Congrats, Muggsy!

Veteran Wake Forest Coach Bill Faircloth welcomes the change in NCAA rules that allows football players to attend summer school before their freshman year starts.

Over the years, Faircloth has seen more and more football players attending summer classes, which requires their presence on campus well before football begins. The big difference this season is that, under new NCAA regulations, incoming freshmen in all sports can attend summer classes on scholarship.
Before, that offer was extended only to players in men's and women's basketball.

Perjury charges for the President's buddy, Palmeiro? It looks like it could happen.

Jake Grobe, the Raiders’ second pick in 2004 from Virginia Tech, is looking forward to his second season as an NFL lineman.

The AD at Georgia Tech has spoken: Chan is our guy!

ACC schools aren't the only folks getting ready for football: The local CIAA teams are gearing up as well. How about a report from the North Carolina Central University Eagles camp.

Mark Trestman may be the key to NC State finally living up to the talent buildup and talk coming out of Raleigh. Don't know who Trestman is?

"Marc Trestman is in his 22nd year of coaching, his first as the Wolfpack's offensive coordinator. Data on Trestman looks impressive: It links him with NFL coaches Marty Schottenheimer and Jon Gruden and former coaches George Siefert, Bobby Ross and Bud Grant.
Names do make a difference. I mean, take a look at Trestman's first season as offensive coordinator with the Cleveland Browns. Bernie Kosar threw for 3,533 yards and 18 touchdowns, and the Browns reached the AFC Championship game. "

Impressive.

UNC, another day, another commitment: This time from tailback Aaris Reed of Washington DC. You know the line - 4.5 speed yada yada yada. Can any of you folks out there please help us out and send recruiting updates from your favorite schools? We'd like to remain balanced but it's tough in this area of the world. Hit us at accbasktblog@yahoo.com

Virginia Notes from the Times Dispatch. How about some Hokie notes as well.
More to come.......

Backup PG

Birkel here. Gonna run the show this morning 'cause Ed's computer punked out. It's all good. I'll be updating continuously as I find the good stuff.

First up: This catch courtesy of the GT Sports Blog. (That's for you, Doug.) Players who leave a school early for their respective pro leagues will not count against the APR of a school. That's a common sense move by the NCAA so count me completely shocked. Shocked I say! That's really good news for teams like Miami, FSU and VPI in football and Carolina and GaTech in basketball. And hey, let's face it, Duke is going to lose McRoberts early. That's especially true since he won't have to compete with high schoolers for draft spots.

Isn't this sad! The NIT is in court arguing the NCAA Basketball Tournament has purposefully set out to hurt other postseason basketball tourneys. Whaaa! Our basketball tournament sucks and we want a court to make it better! Whaaa! Idiots. (Sorry. I was channeling the attorney.)

Ken Pomeroy is doing work to disabuse his readers of their home court advantage beliefs. With numbers.

Only tennis and golf should have old timers leagues. That's because they aren't terribly likely to do great damage to themselves just because they're past their primes. So I'm with the Sports Prof on this one; boxers shouldn't attempt comebacks. After all, they retired for a reason: losing. And that's a great reason to stop getting punched in the face by younger, quicker, more powerful men. To quote the good prof

The end product can be nostalgic, sad and dangerous at the same time.
Here's to hoping that "The Hit Man" doesn't become "The Frequently Hit Man."

Perhaps hope will triumph over experience this time.

Over at End of the Bench Joey noticed that Jeff McInnis is with yet another new team. Will his attitude disrupt the Nets or will J.Kidd keep him happy by distributing the ball? Will Vince Carter take all the shots with Richard Jefferson back? And how will Abdur-Rahim fit into the mix? A lot of questions up there in the Garden State (tee hee hee - Garden State) so this year will really test the aging Kidd.

One more thought on McInnis: Is there a more talented former Carolina player who hasn't produced than this guy? What a waste of talent!

So you're drafted #2 overall by the Atlanta Hawks who were terrible last year and you think the team's going to be terrible. But if you get Joe Johnson and a couple other players could you be decent next year? Well, not if the ownership doesn't sign onto the deal. So what's going to happen? Marvin Williams would like to know, methinks.

More 'roids talk. This time it's Michael Wilbon who says

Oh yes, baseball is facing a crisis. Before yesterday the prevailing wisdom was that starting pitchers didn't need to bulk up and therefore didn't need to take steroids. Then we find out Ryan Franklin, a starting pitcher for the Mariners, tested positive for steroids. So now, in this current climate of suspicion, is it fair to start looking at any pitcher with biceps with increased skepticism, too? Well, maybe it isn't fair. But that won't stop anyone.

Ya think it's unfair? Let's compare a young Roger Clemens from his Texas days to today like so many have done with Bonds at ASU to today. What's the difference? I'll leave it to the readers to tell me what the differences are...

The only player I know hasn't used steroids is Greg Maddux. And I may have to start doubting that some day.

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

Dumped again.

Sorry, folks. I was just getting ready to hit Ctrl C and....error message. We'll get it up bit by bit during the day. Please do check in.

Ed and Birkel

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The Headlines:

Rafael Palmeiro, suspended! "Well, I didn't do it intentionally." How do some of you cats feel about 'ol Jose Conseco, now. Look at McGwire's face...he's like "Dude, are you crazy."

A little Q&A with The "U"'s Larry Coker.

Straight "A" student and the state of North Carolina's top junior prospect, Eric Wallace, is considering a move to Akron Ohio St. Mary Prep.....yes, that St. Mary. Apparently, the old man doesn't think the Winston Salem schools are geared to cater to a player of Eric's caliber, that is, pro level players. Hmmmmmm, let's see: Chris Paul, Josh Howard, Ray Agnew, Brian Howard. Interesting....all four from Winston Salem schools, all four pro athletes (and two very recent players, at that.) I think dad is a little off base with this move. Don't agree? Take it to the comments section.

NC State's Jay Davis has, apparently, become a vocal leader and grown more serious about his game as the Pack look to finally fulfill all of the huff and puff that has emanated from the program since the arrival of Chuck. Lot's of huff.....lot's of 4th place finishes. I'm here from Chapel Hill to tell you: big talk and new buildings do not make a program. Do something besides talk, Pack!

Carolina lands another football recruit with an offer list that reads Bowling Green, Akron, Marshall, Pitt, and "recruited" by Maryland, BC, etc. This time, it's a running back from Ohio named Tony Elzy, 5-10, 205 lbs. Hey, I hope he can play and that the coaches know more than I. I'm just saying........

More Pack news: Wolfpack great Koren Robinson checks himself into drug rehab to get control of what has apparently become a serious alcohol dependency issue. Get it straight and get well, Koren!!

I guess this is good news: UNC's athletic department finishes in the black for the 7th straight year. I'd rather break even or have a little red and get a few more W's in football. Hey, that's just me.

Looks like Ben Mauk is going to get the nod at QB for the Deacs. This is a nice read on this kid from the Winston Salem Journal.

Grobe hopes that the two suspended Deacs learn their lesson's and come back ready to play ball.

Virginia Tech officials got some bad news yesterday when they learned that their new West Side luxury boxes would not be finished for the opener. Bummer.

The "U" vs. Florida : It's in the works. Love it!

Looks like FSU is getting ready to land another top QB from the class of '06. Geez....I hope this one works out for them.

More to come.....