The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Football Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
A stinging defense: Carver puts handcuffs on Parkland, clinches tie for title: Jacket Pride!!! Congrats to Coach Keith Wilkes and the boys from the old high school!!!

NCAA to Schools: Trim Sports Spending :"When the NCAA set out to improve graduation rates among student-athletes, it established national standards and penalties for teams that didn't comply. Shifting the focus from academics to finances required a much more hands-off approach."

AP Interview: DA says he must prosecute Duke lacrosse case

Dascenzo: Believe in Deacons, Santa Claus :"While wondering if anything's possible -- and that it's always wise to never say never, and to always tell a kid there is a Santa Claus -- here's what you really need to know about Wake Forest's 7-1 football team:

Andrew Jones of the Wilmington Star: First Quarter Woes Hurting Wolfpack: "N.C. State led Appalachian State 9-0 midway through the first quarter in a season-opening 23-10 victory two months ago."

Steve Ellis of the Tallahassee Democrat- QB change won't solve everything »


The Conference Headlines:

From our good friends at StateFansNation:
Getting Nasty Out There for A Coach
Suiter Notices Comments
UCLA Coaches “Feeling the Heat”
Trestman Follow-up x3
Technician: Something Has To Change
Basketball Approaches
Get over there!!!!!

The Great Omar Kelly's Hurricanes Blog - Who Stops the Freefall? "I'm ashamed to admit to U folks I don't have any answers to the perplexing..." Get over there!!!!!!

ACC weekly awards go to Ore, Albert


UNC Coaching Search
Baddour says UNC's search for coach is on :" Tar Heels' AD says job has drawn 'a lot of interest'."

Kragthorpe states no interest in UNC:"Tulsa coach says he doesn't want to replace Bunting. Scratch Tulsa's Steve Kragthorpe -- but not necessarily West Virginia's Rich Rodriguez -- from North Carolina's wish list to replace John Bunting as football coach. " That should tell you something when a young guy at a mid major school has no interest in Chapel Hill. Pretty poor state of things, Dickie B.


Georgia Tech
UP AGAINST AN ODD BREED :"With an opponent like coach Chuck Amato's N.C. State Wolfpack, there's no telling what Georgia Tech's in for. For some reason, the Wolfpack excels against Top 25 teams, but plays down to lesser opponents."

Undersized is the right size on Tech's lines: "Darryl Richard epitomized the label "big man on campus" when he arrived at Georgia Tech three years ago. At 6-foot-4 and 315 pounds, he looked like a defensive tackle who could play for Woody Hayes' Ohio State teams or those of Tom Osborne at Nebraska."

Bowl-eligible Tech aims higher

Analysts praise Tech's recruiting


Wake Forest
From the Boston Globe- Deacons left the doubters in their wake:"Predicted to finish last in the Atlantic Coast Conference's Atlantic Division in a preseason media poll, Wake Forest has defied the odds by reaching this point of the season with a 7-1 record (3-1 in the conference) and a No. 22 ranking in the Associated Press Top 25."

Deacons might turn receiver into runner


Boston College
Eagles enjoy taste of success:"Boston College football coach Tom O'Brien always has stressed October as being an important month."


Virginia Tech
Tech's Shuman could come back


Clemson
Tigers’ ACC shot needs a lucky carom:"Clemson’s division title hopes are still alive, but some good fortune — and a couple key losses — are needed"

Loss puts passing game under scrutiny:"If Clemson wins the next three games then tacks on another in a bowl, the loss at Virginia Tech last week probably won't seem like much more than a scraped knee."

Proctor’s job still safe :"Bowden, Spence will not switch QBs; Hunter expected back against Terps."


Florida State
Lee to start for FSU vs. Cavs:"An hour was all the notice quarterback Xavier Lee had before making his first start at Florida State. He has the rest of the week to think about start No. 2."

Special teams part of problem for FSU »

Thaxton losing concussion battle »


Miami
Va. Tech will test UM linebackers :"As problematic as the play of Miami's linebackers was in the Hurricanes' 30-23 loss to Georgia Tech, the injury-riddled unit's success will be more critical against Virginia Tech, which has a power rushing attack that features Branden Ore. "

Will Freeman get a chance to start for Canes?: "WRIGHT OR FREEMAN? As the season progresses and the chance of Miami playing for the Atlantic Coast Conference title becomes less likely, coach Larry Coker has been confronted with the question of whether to stick with starting quarterback Kyle Wright or, as one reporter put it Sunday, make a change to backup Kirby Freeman just ``for the sake of change.'' "


Virginia
Jeers and cheers for Franklin


NCSU
Slumping Wolfpack seeks solutions :"The Pack's 14-7 loss at Virginia on Saturday included only one turnover, but nine penalties. It was State's third consecutive defeat, leaving many Wolfpack fans wondering if this season can be salvaged."

Wolfpack's Amato speaks up after loss

Amato, staff seeking ways to get Wolfpack's offense jump-started


Duke
Duke's Eli Nichols thought his playing days may be finished by an injury, but that wasn't the case "For a moment, Duke nose guard Eli Nichols feared that his career was over. But as it turned out, Nichols' month wasn't even over."


ACC Basketball News:

Q&A with Maryland coach Gary Williams: "Since winning the NCAA title in 2002, Maryland has slumped badly, failing to reach the NCAA tournament the past two years. Coach Gary Williams remains frustrated about being left out of the NCAA field last season and has an experienced team attempting to restore the program's success in 2006-07. "

Knicks, Brown Reach Settlement :"Larry Brown and the New York Knicks reached a settlement on the remainder of the fired coach's contract Monday night, a week before NBA commissioner David Stern was expected to rule on the dispute."

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Football Coverage!!!
PHOTO: Red Auerbach, the ultimate Stogie Guy. RIP.

Getting your mind right:
Auerbach's legacy still felt in NBA

Bob Ryan of the Boston Globe: Red was just full of color:"Red Auerbach folklore is extensive: The seven basic plays, plus options. The victory cigar. The legendarily bad driving."

Wilbon: Red the Real Deal, in Many Ways

BCS Standings

Column: Let the BCS Chaos Begin

Tom Sorensen of the Charlotte Observer: Hope & agony -- that's coaching:"If you're looking for heartache, be a coach and wait awhile. It'll happen."

Ned Barnette of the Raleigh News and Observer: Slim bowl shot least of State's problems

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer : Scheme a concern for Heels

Dascenzo: Deacons in midst of special season :"When you're hot, you're hot and, trust me, Wake Forest's football team is on fire. The Deacs held off troubled North Carolina 24-17 Saturday in Kenan Stadium when ex-Northern High star Josh Gattis picked up a fumble by UNC's Nick Starcevic."

Mike Wise of the Washington Post - A Crucial Sixth for Maryland

Dan Le Batard of the Miami Herald Coker losing his `privilege'

JOSEPH: Coker's decisions baffling :"If Larry Coker gets fired as coach of the Hurricanes at the end of this season, he can look back on this game at Georgia Tech for all the reasons."


The conference headlines:
ACC Report Card

From our good friends at StateFansNation:
Trouble on the horizon (That's a funny photo and caption); and
ECU 2 NC State 0 / Wake Wins “State Championship”
Get over there!

From the great Omar Kelly Hurricanes Blog- Let It All Out:"You always have question for me, so I'm going to turn the tables on you this..." Get over there!!


Georgia Tech
Jackets are on schedule for trip to ACC's championship game

Special Jackets close in on ACC championship: "Hang around Georgia Tech's football team enough and you can sense it."

The worst is over : "Tech could cruise toward season finale with games against N.C. State, North Carolina, Duke." Tech is Tech and could lose to an athletic and capable NC State team. Don't count your chickens quite yet.


Clemson
Bowden: Clemson still in race for ACC glory

Recruiting Broome receiver has Tigers in front: "BROOME WIDE RECEIVER Markish Jones (6-foot-1, 187 pounds) gave Clemson what he called a “soft commitment” last week."

Damaged but not done for :"Tigers’ ACC hopes are a longshot, but Bowden says too much has gone right for Clemson to give up now."


Wake Forest
Under the Radar: Deacons love role of underdog

A Handle on It All: Wake Forest has shown resilience in face of every obstacle


Virginia Tech
Tech back where it wants to be in ACC

Bottle that hit coach was from Tigers fan

Hokies QB coach gets game ball


Maryland
Room to improve for 'fortunate' Terps:"Friedgen sees flaws in seminal win over FSU."


Florida State
Lee capitalized on chance to start:"Xavier Lee admitted that Thursday of last week he had an idea he may get the start under center against Maryland."

Seminoles QB situation up in air

A conversation with Bobby Bowden »

Special teams proved costly for FSU against Maryland »


Miami
Coker confident 'Canes can rebound:"There have been times this season when Miami players, faced with uncertainty and difficult situations, haven't responded the way coach Larry Coker had hoped they would."

Coker says Hurricanes can play for pride: "Even though the Canes' Atlantic Coast Conference title hopes are all but gone, coach Larry Coker said the team's remaining games `will test our character.'" Well, that about sums it up. Larry's all done. UNC, if you want Butch Davis, you better sign him up today.


Virginia
U.VA. NOTES

With Win, Cavaliers Resurrect Season

Hope reappears in Wahoos' camp

Cavaliers find the go-to guy they've lacked

Jeers and cheers for Franklin

Copper pops question, foe

Not His Life? Former UVa. great Barber's decision to retire draws fire


NCSU
NCSU postgame clipboard:"Trailing 7-0, the Pack used a timeout with 4:53 left to set up a third-and-goal play. Quarterback Daniel Evans, given good protection, found John Dunlap open in the back of the end zone for an 8-yard touchdown."


UNC
UNC postgame clipboard:"Six days after the upsetting news that coach John Bunting would not return after this season, UNC was poised for an upset of No. 24 Wake Forest on Saturday."

UNC's Barbour makes immediate impact in new role :"Its depth at tight end erased by injury, the North Carolina football team turned to a secret weapon against Wake Forest on Saturday."


ACC Basketball News:
ACC HOOPS: Q&A with Ga. Tech coach Paul Hewitt

Zoubek impresses in Blue-White game :"Not only did Duke freshman Brian Zoubek play his first game at Cameron Indoor Stadium on Saturday night; he saw his first game at Cameron."

FSU's Allen not short of confidence:" Guard Jerel Allen often looked and felt out of place in Florida State's offense last season."

Forward Singler headed to Duke "Duke's already strong basketball recruiting class got stronger still Friday when forward Kyle Singler, universally recognized as a top-five talent, made a verbal commitment to play for the Blue Devils."

The Daily Roundup: FreeThrowFriday

The BEST ACC Football Coverage!!!

Getting Your Mind Right:

The weekend smoke from the Stogie Guys - The Alonso Menendez Robusto. Get over there!

Andrew Jones of the Wilmington Star - Q&As With Bunting, Sanders & Cignetti: "Availability to North Carolina’s football program was basically cut off this week following coach John Bunting’s firing last weekend."

Carroll ends up at USC, not UNC: "Six years ago, Heels didn't call the coach back." Dick Baddour should be fired for that alone.

Dascenzo: Deacons best story in ACC:"For all those out there who subscribe to the theory quality private institutions with high academic standards cannot win big in football, I offer you today's 6-1 Wake Forest Demon Deacons."

Aaron McFarling of the Roanoke News: Tech shows guts in marching back to glory


The Conference Headlines:

Ore ready, Clemson not:"The Hokies, led by tailback Branden Ore, roll over No. 10 Clemson."

Hokies taken by colorful surprise

Clemson dealt a devastating defeat:" A defensive fortress was burnt to shambles, and Clemson’s superhero tailbacks were rendered powerless to counter it."

Our Friends at StateFansNation bring you the following:
BBall Recruiting Analysis: State Lands Point Guard (Updated 11am)
Get over there!


UNC Coaching Search
UNC coaches, families facing unknown:"The news articles and TV reports said that John Bunting lost his job as North Carolina's football coach. What they left out was that Alyssa Cignetti might have lost her school. Or that Payton Sanders might have lost his teammates. Or that Kathryn Weber might have lost the house she loves so much."

Bunting faces challenges in final weeks:"Bunting faces challenges in final weeks."

His job: Find a coach for the Tar Heels

Could Davis be next UNC coach?

Boston College
Fast start could be healthy side benefit:"While Boston College coach Tom O'Brien yesterday listed quarterback Matt Ryan as "a game-time decision, same thing as always," the 6-foot-5-inch, 218-pound junior said he expects to play Saturday when the 18th-ranked Eagles host Buffalo of the Mid-American Conference at Alumni Stadium."

Clemson
Davis provides lone highlight :" Back ties school record with 17th rushing touchdown this season."

Hokies’ run game is the one that shines

Clemson left to wonder what could have been

Wake Forest
Bunting news bad for Wake

Georgia Tech
http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/sportscolumns/entries/2006/10/26/its_up_to_tech.html:"Terence Moore talks to Lou Holtz about how the Yellow Jackets must feed their All-American receiver."

Notebook: Ball snap-to-snap fighting leg injury:"Georgia Tech's Reggie Ball is snap-to-snap, not day-to-day, with his leg injury. "

NCSU
B&B give Pack legs to stand on:"In a bit of preseason hubris, N.C. State's Andre Brown and Toney Baker talked of playing in the same backfield, blocking for each other, giving the Wolfpack the best 1-2 running punch in the country. "

'In a Routine': QB Evans more comfortable in his role as a starter for the Wolfpack :"In the past six weeks, Daniel Evans has gone from obscure backup quarterback to N.C. State's starter and symbol of hope."

Florida State
Bowden on hot seat with FSU cold at 4-3:"'Noles alums here among those split on coaching legend, 76."

Terry Bowden: Dad's in charge:"Son to father, Terry Bowden looked into the eyes of Florida State's head coach this week and asked the question that is on the mind of most Seminole fans."

'Noles expect Maryland to stick to running »

Miami
UM releases list of initiatives for players involved in brawl :"The Miami football players who were suspended for their role in a sideline-clearing brawl against Florida International will participate in several new community initiatives as part of their sanctioning, university officials said Thursday."

UM's Wright, offense say they won't `zone out' if blitzed :"It's longstanding tradition that trends filter down from the NFL to the college ranks, which helps explain why zone blitzes have become the new fad in college football. "

Duke
Drawing the line:"Learning as they go, Duke's offensive linemen work to improve and to win."


ACC Basketball News:

Maryland picked to win strong ACC:"Terps' women's basketball team leads a league bolstered by big recruiting year."

Indiana point guard picks Pack:"N.C. State has received a basketball commitment from 6-foot-1 point guard Julius Mays, a highly rated junior from Marion, Ind. "

May is back with something to prove :"Sean May and Raymond Felton played 76 games together during their three seasons at North Carolina. The duo figured to approach that number in one year with the NBA's Charlotte Bobcats last season, but it never happened. Felton held up his end of the deal, playing in 80 games during his rookie season, but two knee surgeries limited May to just 23 games. "

Williams suffers broken finger:"Ex-Heel won't play tonight at UNC."

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Football Coverage!!!
Updated at 4:30 pm
Getting your mind right:

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer- Heels can act now on Davis :"If North Carolina wants Butch Davis and if Butch Davis wants the Tar Heels' football job, this search shouldn't last long. "

Dascenzo: Bunting's abnormal sixth year :"The firing of North Carolina football coach John Bunting, 25-42, 16-28 ACC, makes all the sense in the world if you base it on just the sixth-year syndrome. "

Andrew Jones of the Wilmington Star - One more chance for Baddour to get it right: "Imagine falling asleep and entering the REM state. Upon reaching a dream sequence, you suddenly find yourself waking up in a strange house in Chapel Hill."

Andrew Jones of the Wilmington Star - So, What's The Deal With UNC? : "North Carolina’s search for a new football coach won’t likely render any results for a few more weeks at least, and even then the school won’t likely make an announcement until after its final game..."

Jeff Shan of the Miami Herald - The brawl that drew no penalties: "For all the flak heaped upon UM officials for the underwhelming penalties stemming from the Orange Brawl, check out the fallout at Dartmouth and Holy Cross."

Sheridan, Welsh assist ODU:"Ex-Pack, UVa coaches helping Monarchs start program."


The conference headlines:

ACC NOTES

From our friends at StateFansNation:
Just For Argument’s Sake
Truth & Rumor: Cowher in Light Blue? (Key Update @ 2:30pm)
ACC Stuff: Tigers Renew Acquaintance with O’Cain
Vitale & SI: ‘Give Sendek Some Time’
Curse Continues - Atsur Hurt (Updated)
Get over there!

From the Great Omar Kelly Hurricane's Blog - UM Nuggets - Three: "Every time I feel Kyle Wright's ready to take it to the next level, and say it..." Get over there!!

Hokies face tough test vs. Tigers:"Virginia Tech hosts Clemson."

Only injuries seem to slow the ACC's two top tailbacks: "The two best teams in the Atlantic Coast Conference won't necessarily be on display tonight when 10th-ranked Clemson comes to Lane Stadium to play Virginia Tech. The two best tailbacks will."


UNC Coaching Search
Bunting not going to shake things up on way out: "Coach says he's not altering approach with 5 games left at UNCWith its future decided, it would be easy for North Carolina's staff to coach as if it has nothing to lose."

Family, friends don't fit UNC plan

AD: No timetable for coaching search

Coach at Tulsa focusing on 2006 :" Rodriguez, Johnson Kragthorpe, Davis candidates at UNC?"

Heels will rotate quarterbacks vs. Deacs :"It worked in John Bunting's first season. Now it's time to find out if it can work again in his last. "


Clemson
Superheroes:"As one of the best running back tandems in the country, Clemson’s James Davis and C.J. Spiller share a common identity."


Wake Forest
The Comeback Kid: Deacons' Swanson pays for mistakes, contributing again :"Cornerback Riley Swanson of Wake Forest had a good reason last season to feel sorry for himself."


Virginia Tech
Ore out for air time :"While much of the attention will be on the Tigers star RB duo, Techs top rusher craves some of the buzz."


Georgia Tech
TECH BLOG :"The AJC's Matt Winkeljohn asks that while players like Reggie Ball had poor games, how much of that can be chalked up to game-planning by the coaching staff?"

Miami next foe to focus on Johnson: "There's not much Miami head coach Larry Coker wants to remember about the Hurricanes' meeting last season with Georgia Tech."

Notebook: Jackets not expecting any problems from Miami

Defense tries to recover:"Jackets hope to handle the run better against Miami than they did in loss to Clemson."


FSU
Linebacker Watson a special find : "Dekoda Watson was an unheralded prospect before he caught the Seminoles' attention at a high school all-star game. John Lilly tries to take the guesswork out of recruiting. As Florida State's recruiting coordinator, Lilly works with the program's other assistant coaches to identify key prospects early in their high school careers. They do gobs of background research, speaking with high school teachers, coaches, administrators and even administrative assistants to learn as much as possible about each prospect."

Terrapins send out blitz warning to FSU:"Jeff Bowden insists he doesn't pay attention to the verbal blitz and pressure applied by fans who oppose him."

Noles' Fagg to miss game : "The Seminoles will be without their leading receiver, De'Cody Fagg, on Saturday against Maryland. Fagg, who sustained an ankle injury last week against Boston College, had hoped to begin practicing on Wednesday."

Bowden knows the heat »

A couple of boosters write, slam Bowdens »

Thaxton's return lifts hobbled LBs »


Miami
Turbulent season for the Hurricanes

Canes' secondary has a tall task:"UM's defensive backfield faces a daunting challenge Saturday -- trying to contain Georgia Tech receiver Calvin Johnson."

UM's Wright, offense say they won't `zone out' if blitzed :"It's longstanding tradition that trends filter down from the NFL to the college ranks, which helps explain why zone blitzes have become the new fad in college football. "

UM's Moore facing charges

Moore a 'game-time decision'


Virginia Tech
Deke helps Cavs' cause in practice

Ex-Tech SID was 'a pro's pro'


Duke
Soft-spoken Talley does his talking on the field:"Duke senior cornerback John Talley picked off two passes in a recent loss to Florida State, but he couldn't forgive himself for getting picked on by a taller receiver for a touchdown. "


ACC Basketball News:

Pack back on court : "N.C. State basketball coach Sidney Lowe says his team "did a pretty good job" in its first public display before about 5,000 loyal and curious fans at Reynolds Coliseum. The Wolfpack is picked to finish last in the ACC."

More to come.......

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Football Coverage!!!
PHOTO: Audio slide show: Who will replace Bunting? Caulton Tudor considers the options.

Getting Your Mind Right:

Langston Wertz Heels need to step on it

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer: "Heels' next hire should have ..."

John Delong of the Winston-Salem Journal: Search for UNC coach may have familiar feel

Steve Ellis of the Tallahassee Democrat: Bowden's struggles hurt »

Lopsided rivalry helps Navy to balance books:"Tradition, commerce meet in Notre Dame matchup."


The Conference Headlines:

From the Great Omar Kelly's Hurricanes Blog: Big Timers: "Big time players step up in big time games. I know it's a sports cliche that's..." Get over there!

From our friends at the fantastic StateFansNation Blog:
Morning Linkfest (Stories on the Red/White game, the survival of Amato, Carolina Search, and even a little SEC action).
CLT OBS: Butch Davis Interested in Carolina Job

Get over there!!!


UNC Coaching Search
Aiding UNC's search :"North Carolina has hired Chuck Neinas, former executive director of the College Football Association, to help the school search for its newfootballl coach. The information he provides will be key during a process that will not include a formal search committee."

Baddour won't use search committee

Baddour resists naming names: "Dick Baddour knows what he wants. But North Carolina's athletics director isn't talking about whom he wants to be the school's next head football coach."

Butch Davis eyes return:"Former University of Miami football coach Butch Davis told The Miami Herald on Tuesday night that he wants to return to coaching and wouldn't rule out any college or NFL job. "

Davis expresses interest in UNC:"Former Hurricanes, Browns leader says he wants to coach again Butch Davis is interested in North Carolina's football coaching job." But then again.....

Davis wants to coach again, but not necessarily at UNC

Kragthorpe, Rodriguez, Johnson said to be on UNC wish list

Bunting refused to resign

Firing gives UNC head start

UNC recruits must make choice again: Sign up Butch Davis, if you can, and I don't think there will be any problems with keeping recruits.

Three recruits say they'll stick with UNC :"Other members of the 2007 football class to take a wait-and-see approach after Bunting's dismissal as coach."


Clemson
Proctor nearly perfect:"Clemson's first-year starter at quarterback has hit the ground running, leading the Tigers to a 7-1 record."

Tigers’ defense shines at night :"Clemson ready for another challenge on Thursday."

Little time to heal Post Comment :"Unless there's a lump of Kryptonite the size of Howard's Rock in Blacksburg, Va., James Davis said he intends to play Thursday night."

Clemson's Davis '50-50' to play vs. Virginia Tech

Return to coaching means return to Clemson for O’Cain: "Like always, Mike O’Cain spent many 2005 fall Saturdays at a football stadium. But that was different from his playing days at Orangeburg-Wilkinson High and Clemson University or his coaching duties at six colleges. He worked in broadcasting."


Wake Forest
Wake's success: Adapting, evolving

Skinner getting chance to shine WFU's Grobe says he's confident in QB


Georgia Tech
RE-IGNITING THE FIRE :"Beat writer Matt Winkeljohn blogs about what's at stake when the Miami Hurricanes visit Tech this Saturday. In the grand scheme of things, he writes, beating Miami matters more than last weekendevastatingting loss at Clemson. "

Yellow Jackets try to move on after dismal loss: "It's time for Georgia Tech to move on. No more sulking about that dismal loss to Clemson. The Yellow Jackets actually have a bigger game this Saturday. "

Notebook: Johnson was hurt by lack of execution

Ala. LB commits to Jackets


Virginia Tech
TECH NOTES

Hokies in the Hurry-Up With Clemson Looming

Stopping run tops Hokies' to-do list

Tech's HIGH FIVE


Florida State
A couple of boosters write, slam Bowdens:"A growing number of Florida State fans aren't happy with veteran football coach Bobby Bowden." You folks need to relax and let Bobby fade out when he darn well pleases. You are one year removed from a conference championship. You had your national run. Now take a break, show some respect, and let nature take its course.

Thaxton's return lifts hobbled LBs »

FSU's Thaxton might return Saturday:"Linebacker Jae Thaxton returned to practice on Tuesday after missing more than a month because of a concussion sustained in the Seminoles' 27-20 loss to Clemson."


Miami
Hurricanes reinstate Moore :"Miami receiver Ryan Moore has been reinstated to the team and could play Saturday in an Atlantic Coast Conference showdown against Georgia Tech. "

'Canes still miffed over loss:"Miami LB Jon Beason disses '05 win by Jackets, but Tech result 'speaks for itself,' Hall says. "

UM's Davis has season-ending surgery


Maryland
After Bolston moves over, Terps step up their rush:"With senior at nose tackle, line has transformation."

History is against Terps in matchup with FSU:"Seminoles have won 15 of 16 all-time against Maryland."

TERRAPINS NOTEBOOK: Ennis Is Feeling Special After ACC Honor


Virginia
UVA's HIGH FIVE

U.VA. NOTES

Bears' Jones uses off week to add to UVa's scholarship fund


Duke
Devils look to build on great half vs. Canes:"Ted Roof has experienced better days as Duke's head coach than Saturday's near-upset of Miami -- a blowout victory over alma mater Georgia Tech, a convincing win at heated rival North Carolina and a last-second victory over Clemson among them. "


ACC Basketball News:

Clemson commit on the move: "Highly-rated forward transfers from Greer to N.C. high school."

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Football coverage!!!
PHOTO: "UNC coach John Bunting embraces linebacker Larry Edwards after Monday's news conference." Bunting, Baddour news conference transcript

Getting Your Mind Right:

John Eisenberg of the Baltimore Sun: " On values, 'Canes, not UNC, are real heels."

A good guy, just wrong guy for UNC:"John Bunting needed to be fired. No way around it. North Carolina's football team is more fit for Division I-AA."

Ned Barnett of the Raleigh News and Observer: Heels must decide importance of football - "When Dick Baddour met John Bunting before Monday's news conference, the athletics director joked that the football coach had forgotten his tie."

Dascenzo: This time, Baddour needs to get it right :"Most people will tell you North Carolina is a football eruption waiting to happen. It's a university that is poised in the geographical midst of the ACC, with a setting that a postcard cannot do proper justice. "

Ed Hardin: Bunting just didn’t win enough games

Barry Saunders of the Raleigh News-Observer: Bunting's way suits this dad


The Conference Headlines:
From our friends at StateFansNation:
Tarheel Football Search Very Relevant to State
Mario Improving.
Get over there!

ACC to crack down on miscreants

Clemson

Tigers’ defense shines at night:"Clemson ready for another challenge on Thursday. The cat came screeching out of the bag, and Clemson had no way of muzzling it. For weeks, coordinator Vic Koenning insisted the Tigers were far from those call-your-shots defenses identified by attitude and a nickname."

Fry able to cope with 'bump in road' Post Comment :"Roman Fry said that after everything he's endured during the past several months, the season-ending knee injury was like "a bump in the road."

Notes New starter at guard stays mum on Hokies :" Torn ACL sidelines Fry for rest of the season, but Bowden says Stuckey will play."

The Buzz Fashion disaster spoils on-field success

Wake Forest
Heels don't need extra motivation, Grobe says:" Wake Forest coach expected UNC to play emotional game even before firing."

Boston College
Ryan makes a habit of playing through:"Quarterback Matt Ryan has shown grit during Boston College's first seven games. Playing with a gimpy left foot and ankle, the 6-foot-5-inch, 218-pound junior from Exton, Pa., leads the Atlantic Coast Conference in total offense (237.3 yards per game) and has thrown for a league-high 1,661 yards. He also has nine touchdowns and four interceptions."


Georgia Tech
Tech needs help from Hokies

Anoai's mom wrestles with violent game:"Joe Anoai never told his mother the full story behind his desire to take up football. "


Virginia Tech
Hokies' Whitaker Will Play at QB

No QB issue for Beamer


FSU
Bowden taking criticism in stride :"Bobby Bowden still thinks he has numbers on his side, not that he's keeping count."

FSU's Weatherford knew job was in danger:"Drew Weatherford knew full well just how close he came to getting yanked in Florida State's loss to Boston College."

Bowden wants to look ahead »

Interception for TD still frustrates FSU »


Miami
YOUTH DOESN'T WIN GAMES :"Miami tailback Javarris James, cousin of Edgerrin James, is one of four freshman who'll likely start for the Hurricanes in the homecoming game at Georgia Tech on Saturday. A survey conducted by the AJC found that teams that don't have freshman starters this season generally have better won-loss records."

Decimated UM defense must fill some big gaps :"The middle of Miami's defense has been gutted by injuries at the worst possible time, considering the Hurricanes' critical ACC Coastal Division showdown with Georgia Tech is Saturday."

Phillips gets ACC honor :"S Kenny Phillips, who split time between safety and cornerback in Miami's 20-15 win over Duke, was named the ACC's defensive back of the week for his three interceptions. "


Maryland
Terps Refuse to Pack It In


NCSU
Amato: 'No coach likes to see that happen to another coach' :"Now that North Carolina athletics director Dick Baddour has decided that John Bunting can't keep up with life in the fast lane, N.C. State coach Chuck Amato feels bad for his UNC counterpart. "

Season of swings for Pack

Noon starts slow Pack:"N.C. State has played three games this season with kickoffs a few minutes after noon. State is 0-3 in those games . "


Virginia
Cavs snare Pennsylvania lineman


UNC
UNC, Bunting move on:" Athletics director Dick Baddour says he hopes that making the announcement during the season will reduce criticism of the football program."

How Bunting fell and what's next:"Shortly after watching North Carolina's loss at Virginia on Thursday, North Carolina athletics director Dick Baddour says he knew he had to fire football coach John Bunting."

Tar Heels to focus on final five games:"John Bunting learned Sunday evening that the University of North Carolina didn't want him to return next season but did want him to coach the remaining five football games of this season. " That should be interesting.

Shouldering the Blame: North Carolina players say it's their fault, not Bunting's, they've gone 1-6

Bunting: 'We're this close'

UNC recruits wait it out

AD: Decision to fire Tar Heels coach became clear during weekend

Recruits waiting out search

Reaction to dismissal of John Bunting

Tar Heels suspend Edwards for Wake:"North Carolina backup tailback Barrington Edwards has been suspended for Saturday's game at Wake Forest for breaking a team rule, a team spokesman confirmed Monday night."

Baddour will turn to advisers

North Carolina Commitments

Hillside's Smith sticks with UNC commitment :"The coach who recruited him might have been fired Sunday, but Hillside linebacker Jonathan Smith said he's still fired up about playing football at North Carolina next season -- no matter who's the coach. "


ACC Basketball News:

Krzyzewski's optimistic :"Entering ACC season ranked second, Coack K rationalizes that things could be worse for Duke. "

Duke to hold open basketball practice:"Duke will hold an open basketball practice at 4:30 p.m. Friday at Cameron Indoor Stadium, coach Mike Krzyzewski announced Monday. Fans will be permitted to sit in the upper level, but no photography will be allowed."

News & Notes: Freshman Hayes Shines in Terrapins' Scrimmage

New coaches ready to help FSU reach March Madness:"It's been 20 years since Tim Carter first went to work for Leonard Hamilton. Carter's old boss is his new boss at Florida State."

Ex-'Cane Hite may make Heat roster:" Don't tell Robert Hite he can't play shooting guard in the NBA."

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Football News!!!!
Updated @ 2:44 PM

Getting your mind right:

UNC looks to the future :"North Carolina athletics director Dick Baddour said financial reasons did not play a part in firing football coach John Bunting, left, but he would not further discuss his reasoning for making a change now."

Bunting's dismissal catches students by surprise:"If North Carolina intended to decide John Bunting's fate in the cover of night, it succeeded, at least in the heart of campus. Athletics director Dick Baddour made his decision in the middle of the season. "

Tudor: Bunting just couldn't quite get it right

Who would UNC consider?

Sea change in ACC's Atlantic:"Gloom seemed to grip Florida State yesterday after the Seminoles, a year removed from winning the Atlantic Coast Conference's inaugural championship game, awoke to find themselves alone in last place in the Atlantic Division standings."

The Conference Headlines:

Bunting Will Not Return For 2007 :"John Bunting will not return as head coach of the University of North Carolina football program in 2007, Director of Athletics Dick Baddour announced Sunday evening. Bunting, a 1972 UNC graduate, is in his sixth year as the Tar Heels' head coach. Bunting will continue to coach the Tar Heels through the rest of this season." Wouldn't be a grand send off for Mr.Bunting to close his career with victories over Wake, State, and Duke?

From our friends at StateFansNation -
Recent Football Recruiting Rankings: Look at those rankings and you have to ask yourself what the heck is wrong at UNC and NCSU. I suspect the answer was finally given regarding UNC. When will NCSU come to the same conclusion?

Bunting Gone At End of Season (Updated 9:15am)

WEDNESDAY’s Red vs White Game

Get over there!

A "twofor" from the great Omar Kelly's Hurricanes Blog -
Searching for Inspiration:"Listening to Kirk Franklin's Hero album on my flight home from the Duke game has.."; and

Butch Speaks: "Former University of Miami coach Butch Davis joined Hank Goldberg Friday."

Get over there!!


Clemson
Tigers return to top 10:"Celebration of Georgia Tech win tempered by season-ending injury to Fry. Tommy Bowden said he got to park a little closer at church Sunday morning. Attendance was down — allegedly because a few more Clemson fans either burned the midnight oil celebrating the Tigers’ 31-7 stomping of Georgia Tech, or they were among the masses caught in the crawling traffic exodus that lasted several hours after the game."

Injuries now beginning to plague offense :"Shoulder injury barely slows Davis; Key ACC clash draws clashing uniforms."


Georgia Tech
'Canes loom large on horizon :"With ACC Coastal division lead at stake, Jackets shake off Clemson loss and focus on Miami."

Jackets will still look to Calvin:"Calvin Johnson won't make any Keyshawn Johnson-like demands as long as he's at Georgia Tech. "

Jackets vs. 'Canes: major implications


Virginia Tech
TECH NOTES

Hokies handling fast turnaround, prepare for Thursday night meeting with Tigers.

Tech’s focus quickly moves to Clemson

Ore thinks big after career rushing night


NCSU
Amato is still eyeing a title:" N.C. State will likely have to win its final four games in ACC."

NCSU postgame clipboard:"One of the biggest surprises in Maryland's 26-20 victory over N.C. State on Saturday was the inability of the Pack's offensive line to keep the pass rush off of quarterback Daniel Evans. "


Miami
Coker upset with too many penalties:" Coach Larry Coker expressed his dissatisfaction with the 120 yards in penalties Miami incurred in Saturday's 20-15 victory over Duke. The 15 penalties, most of which were holding calls, were a season high."

Coker senses danger zone:"UM coach Larry Coker is wary of Saturday's opponent, Georgia Tech, which will be coming off a tough loss against Clemson. 'They'll be at their best,' he said.'"

'Canes, maybe Coker too, are hanging on for dear life:"University of Miami quarterback Kyle Wright wasn't prepared for this."


Florida State
FSU has unbelievable goal: bowl eligibility. "Yeah, I must say that I found myself watching that game and feeling like the tide had completely turned in the ACC and the mighty Seminole Dynasty was officially conquered."

Mistakes too costly »

FSU players defend coach, QB »

FSU season darkens »

FSU in unfamiliar territory »

Piurowski doesn't think he fumbled »


Virginia
Cavs find unique way to knock off North Carolina

No repeat for Cavs

Gould shines with lightened load


UNC
Struggling Tar Heel QBs will split time, coach says: "Can't get any worse, that's for sure. "

UNC postgame clipboard:"During his weekly conference call Sunday evening, North Carolina coach John Bunting was asked, "Have you resigned or offered to resign or anything like that?""


ACC Basketbll News:

Hot freshman class gives spark to ACC

Tar Heels are top dogs in a league that's tops:"UNC is the preseason favorite to win the ACC, which expects more than four NCAA Tournament bids. North Carolina, with preseason player of the year Tyler Hansbrough and what one coach called "two teams," received 59 of the 62 first-place votes. " Hmmm......perhaps.

More ACC games possible:"Number would go from 16 to 18."

The Talk of ACC Basketball Media Day

OBSERVATIONS ACC basketball

ACC preseason men's basketball poll

Krzyzewski: No timetable yet for Paulus' return:"When Duke point guard Greg Paulus took a tumble in practice last Saturday, some of his teammates joked that he got up limping to get out of the remainder of the drill. "

Scheyer steps in:"Duke freshman replaces injured Paulus at the point."

TECH RANKED 4TH IN ACC VOTE :"Tech coach Paul Hewitt is marveling at the progress of redshirt freshman Mohammed Faye while ACC experts rank the young Yellow Jacket team fourth in preseason balloting." That sounds about right.

Dascenzo: Give Lowe a chance :"If it's true that clothes can make a man, Sidney Lowe might be off to a good start as N.C. State's new head basketball coach. "

The Daily Roundup: FreeThrowFriday

The BEST ACC football coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:

The weekend smoke from the Stogie Guys: The Punch Grand Cru Robusto. Get over there!

A "fourfor" from tour friends at StateFansNation:
WCHL: Bunting To Resign (YES!!!!!)
Troopers Protect the Coach
Bunting Stuff

Get over there!!

It's not about race; it's Miami :"We missed the white fight. You know, the brawl between football players at Holy Cross and Dartmouth last weekend where, interestingly, no TV cameras were around to capture the fists and the anger, to replay the lowlights constantly so a country would come away with an impression about "those people." The phone rang a few times the other day, and the callers wanted my take on what they saw as an obvious and possibly racist double standard. That's because, while the preppy and privileged were slugging it out, a large group of mostly black players from Miami and Florida International stomped each other in a violent interlude that received major air time on your tube and YouTube. "


The conference headlines:

ACC Notebook :"Kicker Aponavicius nearing folk-hero status in Boston."

Cavaliers shut down Heels :"The Tar Heels extend their winless streak in Charlottesville to 13 games as they show little passion on both sides of the ball in giving up 23 points to a Virginia team that has been struggling this season. " Worst game I think I've ever witnessed.

Andrew Jones of the Wilmington Star: UNC-UVa Observations & More: "There’s really no reason to delve too far into North Carolina’s 23-0 loss at Virginia on Thursday night."

Bob Lipper of the Richmond Times Dispatch - Tar Heels are the cure for whatever ails Wahoos

GAILEY'S BEST HANDOFF : "From beat writer Matt Winkeljohn's perspective, Tech's head

Kicker Bell corrects flaw:"Glitch in mechanics believed to be reason for missing 4 of 8 field-goal attempts this season.coach has made a good number of wise moves this season. But the best of all, he writes, may have been turning the offensive reigns over to coordinator Patrick Nix. "

Ga. Tech faces tough test vs. Clemson

No signal on status of Ryan:"Although his mobility appeared to be much improved over Tuesday's practice, Boston College junior quarterback Matt Ryan remained a game-time decision for tomorrow's Atlantic Coast Conference game at Florida State."

FSU season rests on BC game :" Sitting on the other side of Saturday's kickoff is an unsettling picture: Florida State could be out of it for good, under .500 in the Atlantic Coast Conference and calculating what that dismal stat means in mileage traveled to an out-of-state bowl game. "

Wolfpack backup QB wants what's best for team :"N.C. State's Marcus Stone, left, says he works just as hard now as he did when he was the team's starting quarterback."

Terps to Soon Learn if They're Going Right Way

Terrapins' Raw Defense Is Learning on the Run

Dascenzo: Devils looked at Tressel :"Thirteen years ago Duke was finishing up another dreadful football season in what would be Barry Wilson's last as the Blue Devils coach."

Devils' Drummer gets back at it :"Duke came into the season determined to find ways to get the ball in the hands of junior speedster Ronnie Drummer, but the Blue Devils couldn't get Drummer the ball while standing on the sidelines."


ACC Basketball news:

Shifting Gears: Deacs' Smith working on his driving

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC football coverage!!!
PHOTO: Our prediction for UNC @ Virginia? Pain!!!

Getting your minds right:

Andrew Jones of the Wilmington Star- Grading The ACC's Coaches:"I’ve received quite a few e-mails lately from ACC football fans asking my thoughts about this coach or that coach."

Lenox Rawlings of the Winston-Salem Journal - What's Normal? In ACC football, the Hurricanes look like a biker gang while the Deacons' stock continues to rise.

BC reinstates kicker Ohliger:"Boston College coach Tom O'Brien announced yesterday he has reinstated junior kicker Ryan Ohliger."

Tar Heels have options with Bunting :"If UNC continues to struggle this season, the school faces a decision about its football coach."

Favre backs Robinson:"QB upset that NFL is keeping teammate from 'support group that can help'."


The conference headlines:

The Great Omar Kelly's Hurricanes Blog - For The Record:"For the record, I've never been more ashamed of what I do for a living than this..." Get over there!

North Carolina at Virginia

UNC-Virginia: must-miss TV?

Heels could help cure Cavs' woes

Hamilton adds to pickoff prowess

Clemson, S.C. Reflect on Past Brawl

Clemson’s running game is in the zone:"Zone blocking game plan leads Tigers through opposing defenses."

Tigers' tall order Post Comment :"There's probably no other team on the Clemson schedule this season with an offensive weapon as lethal as Georgia Tech receiver Calvin Johnson."

Stuckey still tripped up over broken foot:"McElrathbey brothers tape long-distance interview for Oprah."

Tech poised for another magical trip:"Sixteen long years ago, Georgia Tech made an improbable run to its first Atlantic Coast Conference championship and a share of the national championship."

DEFENSIVE END IMPROVING :"Michael Johnson's back-to-back sacks to end Maryland's final possession not only clinched a win for the Jackets but also should pay off in future games played by the sophomore defensive end. "It's not going to up his level of play," coach Chan Gailey said. "But it's going to allow him to play with more confidence." "

Calvin is covered:"Johnson has insurance policy that would pay off if injury strikes before he goes to NFL."

Hokies dismiss 2nd defensive lineman

Stone doing whatever he can to help Wolfpack win:"Quarterback Daniel Evans said Wednesday he's been cleared to start N.C. State's game against Maryland on Saturday. While the plays that came after he suffered a concussion on the final drive against Wake Forest remain a little fuzzy, Evans said he's cleared the cobwebs and will be ready for the noon start against the Terrapins."

Ex-Scorpion Spencer on track to play for Pack:"Owen Spencer plans to enroll at N.C. State in January and participate in spring football practice. "

Miami defends disciplinary action

Terrapins' Raw Defense Is Learning on the Run

So much to do, so little time for UNC :"Five days after losing to South Florida, the Tar Heels will play tonight at Virginia, where they haven't won since 1981. "

No blue skies in the forecast:"New offensive scheme, top recruits who left program among reasons for UNC's struggles. Four days before Rutgers rolled into Chapel Hill for North Carolina's season opener, Tar Heels football coach John Bunting said there were similarities between the programs. "

UNC football player beat the odds to reach the peak of success :"Cold weather always was Kareen Taylor's favorite. But a January day back in 2002 was bad enough to make anyone, even Taylor, rethink that. And if Taylor had one thing that day, it was time to think. "

Who would UNC consider?:"If North Carolina does have to hire a new football coach, these 10 individuals meet some key criteria."

Duke's Marshall back up to speed:"Jabari Marshall had a chance to go to the likes of Notre Dame and Auburn out of high school, but after a slow start, the speedy sophomore is starting to go places at Duke. "

The Daily Roundup:Wednesday

The BEST ACC football coverage!!!


Getting your mind right:

Changes imminent in ACC:"The cyclical nature of conferences experiencing down years has landed squarely on the reconfigured ACC."

Miami's sanctions not harsh enough:"Canes shouldn't get to play in postseasonMiami's football team shouldn't accept a bowl bid, and the school should take its new no-tolerance policy a few steps further." Or, at the very least, the suspensions ought to be 2 games since their next game is Duke. Don't think that went unnoticed by the administration when they decided on one game.

HYDE: UM sounds like broken record:" This was more than a statement. This was a snapshot of what's wrong." We would have to agree.

Ned Barnett of the Raleigh News and observer: The football brawl between Miami and Florida International has been closed out with a raft of dismissals and suspensions and relegated to the files of YouTube.com, but some questions remain.

Ed Hardin of the Greensboro News and Record: Accusations fly as fast as fists and helmets

John Delong of the Winston-Salem Journal: Coaches say fifth season of eligibilty may be good

League suspends Robinson:"Ex-Pack receiver to miss one year."


The Conference Headlines:

GT Beat Blog gives us the 'NO EXCUSES' WEEK AT TECH : "In today's blog, Tech beat writer Mike Knobler notes how rested and confident the Yellow Jacket football team appears as it prepares to visit Clemson on Saturday." Get over there!

From our friends at StateFansNation, Maryland Preview. This is always a tough game for State. Last weeks Wake loss put a bit of a dent in their title game hopes, but a loss to the Terps would spell real trouble. Get over there!!!

More from the boys at StateFansNation - Wacky Wednesday: Bunting, N&O, Media, Miami, Etc. Get over there!!!!

From the outstanding ATLEagle blog, Ryan Rumors. Get over there!!!!!

From the great Omar Kelly Hurricane's Blog - Feeding Time?: "This is one of those tree falling in the woods questions. If a brawl takes place..." Get over there!!!!!!

Bowden wins with balanced offense: "IN 10 SEASONS as a head coach Tommy Bowden has forever been in search of the perfectly balanced offense, the attack with the proper blend of running and passing."

Davis has big plans against Jackets :"Atlanta native wants bragging rights in his neighborhood."

Learning from a legend:"Ohio native Jon Tenuta's demanding coaching style a throwback to Woody Hayes." Perhaps the next coach at UNC?

Tech defense must live up to its motto:"Stop the run. The slogan lacks the flair of Get off the field; Make a play; Bend, but don't break; or even Rah-rah-ree, kick them in the knee, but it suits Georgia Tech's defense. Make the opponent a one-dimensional passing team, and you can control the clock, rush the passer and create turnovers. "

Jackets' Johnson aiming high:"Ga. Tech receiver could improve Heisman chances with big game vs. Clemson."

Hokie NOTES from the Times Dispatch

Beamer: Sideshows will cease :"The Hokies' football coach has had it with the act and gone to a zero-tolerance policy."

Herbstreit defends rant against Hokies

Va. Tech Tries to Regain Handle

Injuries chip at 'Noles defense:"Florida State built a reputation under Mickey Andrews of finishing games strong. Andrews' defenses would bend - as can be the nature of his aggressive defensive strategy - but not often break."

Carr ready for a breakout :"Not that Greg Carr is counting, but he knows off the top of his head that he has 15 touchdowns in his brief career, spanning barely a season and a half, six of them in one stadium and six total this season. "

Carter teaches while hurt »

LB Davis' versatility more vital than stats »

FSU has surprising success in red zone »

UM players 'drained' but try to move on; suspended safeties apologize :" University of Miami quarterback Kyle Wright said he found himself watching Jay Leno for the first time in a couple of years Monday night but never expected he and his teammates would be the butt of the comedian's jokes."

2 Miami players apologize for brawl: This is true, but one of the kids could barely read the prepared statement. If you are a University trying desperately to salvage its reputation, why would you put a kid in front of the camera who is CLEARLY not academically on the level? Truth is that 80% or so of these college football players would not make it through the normal admissions process @ top 100 Schools but for football. We all know that. But why, especially after this kind of incident, would you throw a player (and your school) in what should be an even more embarrassing position?

Miami's been here, but not FIU

Shalala ponders rivalry's future

Miami feeling media backlash

To avert brawls, Terps keep eye on fights

Bunting relates to fans' misery :"Frustrated with the Heels' 1-5 record, UNC coach John Bunting still points to progress as North Carolina prepares for Thursday night's ESPN showcase game at Virginia." No CEO of any public corporation survives a 5 year slide in their stock. Sorry, buddy.

Tar Heels count on Cooter for help

UNC's Edwards holding out hope for return: "Larry Edwards likely will miss the rest of the season because of a broken collarbone. But the fact that the word is "likely" and not "definitely" gives North Carolina's senior linebacker some hope."

Players say they support Bunting

Bunting to Heels: Let's have fun:"UNC will play Thursday night game at Virginia, where it hasn't won since '81."

U.VA. NOTES from the Times Dispatch

Goulds experience highs, lows of rallies

Cavs see selves in Cardinals' collapse:"At Scott Stadium, the Terrapins stunned the home fans by rallying to beat the Cavaliers 28-26. When the Arizona Cardinals' Neil Rackers kicked a 28-yard field goal to end the first half, the significance wasn't lost on UVA football players watching the Monday night game. "


ACC Basketball News:

Former Dudley player ready to start for UNC: In time, young man...in time.

Big Surprise? Opponents may not know what to expect from WFU's Weaver, a redshirt last season

Krzyzewski moves from backboards to boardroom: "Duke's basketball practices are typically closed. Photographers are never allowed. "

Bobcats off mark in loss at UNC:"College reunion turns sour for Felton, May. Perhaps the Charlotte Bobcats need to forget that these games don't count in the standings."

Ex-UNC star Haywood fired up for new season: "Brendan Haywood has grown accustomed to his spot in the Washington Wizards' starting lineup. Haywood, who played at North Carolina from 1997-2001, started 70 games last season for the Wizards and has started at least 59 games in each of his last four seasons in the NBA. "