The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:

For the Appalachian State fans who may be on line: TURNAROUND: Eastern Washington has won five straight to advance to quarterfinals of FCS playoffs

Mike Wise of the Washington Post - The Game Goes On:"The emotional hurt associated with the loss of safety Sean Taylor hardly felt any better as Coach Joe Gibbs and the Redskins take to the field Wednesday while working through their immense grief."

John Feinstein of the Washington Post: Saban's Comments and BCS Both Prove Baffling

Dave Hyde: Sean Taylor's legacy: Sad lessons never seem to kick in

Omar Kelly: Don't judge Sean Taylor by public perceptions

ACC/BigEast Beat Down:
Tar Heels' defense makes the difference : "Playing without point guard Ty Lawson, a slower UNC attack is effective enough as the Tar Heels get 23 points from Wayne Ellington to pull out a 66-55 win over Ohio State in the ACC-Big Ten Challenge."

MSU batters NCSU : "Michigan State blasted the Pack 81-58 in an ACC-Big Ten Challenge game at the Breslin Center that was anything but a challenge for the 10th-ranked Spartans, whose intensity, energy and efficiency No. 24 State simply couldn't match."

BC basketball beats Michigan: "So, what seemed to register more? The fact Boston College's fifth victory, a 77-64 decision over Michigan, helped the Eagles remain undefeated or the fact they recorded their first road win of the season?"

Hokies' rally falls short:"Mike Walker scored 17 points, and Talor Battle hit a key bucket down the stretch as Penn State held off a late rally to defeat Virginia Tech 66-61 in the Big Ten/ACC Challenge last night."

Terps make point :"Maryland forward James Gist, who had 12 points and nine rebounds, celebrates the Terps' 69-60 win over Illinois in the Big Ten/ACC Challenge. The Terps improved to 5-2 on the season."

The Conference Headlines:
A very special rivalry: "Documentary looks at 2005 Duke-UNC basketball game."

LENOX RAWLINGS of the Winston Salem Journal: Krzyzewski's Blue Devils look like title contenders

Andrew Jones, The ACC Insider: Duke must learn from past mistakes in this search: "Duke athletic director Joe Alleva believes this time he and his university will make the right decision."

North Carolina

Observations UNC vs. Ohio State

Football progress in small steps for Tar Heels: "When Butch Davis took the North Carolina job a year ago, he spoke of changing the culture and building a program that could eventually compete for a national championship."

NC State

Observations Michigan St. vs. N.C. State

Duke
Spurrier calls on Alleva : "South Carolina football coach Steve Spurrier was in town and visited with Duke athletic director Joe Alleva on Wednesday afternoon."

Clemson

From the 50 Yard Line Blog:How strong is commitment to Bowden?

Mays’ hip revealed to be sprained, not fractured:"Turns out Clemson senior forward James Mays endured an extra dose of distress. Mays received good news Wednesday when a bone scan revealed he had sprained his left hip, meaning he will likely be sidelined for a shorter span than feared."

Boston College

BC could play in Chick-fil-A: "A clause in the Chick-fil-A Bowl contract, which requires it to take the loser of the Atlantic Coast Conference championship game once every four years, could factor into where Boston College plays its bowl game if the Eagles lose to Virginia Tech Saturday."

BC's Gunnell has come up big: "He is not the star, or even the starter. But that is more a matter of semantics. If you want a consistent wide receiver with star qualities for Boston College, you need look only as far as Rich Gunnell."

Virginia Tech

VT Insider: Bowling for dollars

Hokies better in stretch lately

Tech's zone a BC favorite

Virginia

Long-range plan works out well for Cavaliers

Georgia Tech

Hatcher not called, is willing to listen

Tech seeking energetic coach to sell football program

Jackets' balance not enough against Gordon, Hoosiers

Interim period is Tenuta's audition

Florida State

FSU might get bid to Music City Bowl: "Florida State fans might want to wait before trying to purchase those sometime hard-to-get Grand Ole Opry tickets.

Commentary: FSU should find post-Bowden answer »

McMahon named freshman All-American »

FSU discusses Bowden deal »

FSU linebacker Hayes named to first-team All-ACC »

Miami

Canes stay unbeaten : "Miami, off to its best start since 2001, dominated in the paint and made 31 of a season-high 42 free throws - all without its top scorer."

Tragedies at UM

How to deal?

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!


Getting your mind right:
Police seek mysterious intruder in Sean Taylor slaying : "Miami-Dade detectives looking for the mysterious intruder who shot football star Sean Taylor now say they are hunting a killer. After clinging to life nearly 24 hours, the Washington Redskins Pro Bowl safety succumbed to a bullet wound to the leg about 3:30 a.m. Tuesday at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. Shot Monday morning at his Palmetto Bay home -- just feet from his baby daughter -- he died before he could speak to detectives. They are treating his death as a homicide. Under scrutiny of national...
Prep sports eject more players: "Ejections for bad behavior in high school sports have more than doubled so far this year statewide, thanks to stricter enforcement of sportsmanship rules.""


Media, public feed on Taylor's death : "Commentary: Entangle a gunshot and death and mystery and fame, and it starts people gossiping and filing it under journalism."

David Steele of the Baltimore Sun on Sean Taylor: Unanswered questions with hasty conclusions


In Fla., A Struggle to Understand



The conference headlines:
Adams is ACC's top rookie: "Running back Josh Adams, who starred at Cary High School, is the latest freshman standout for the Demon Deacons."

Groh ACC's top coach: "Virginia makes run at ACC title."

From the 50 Yard Line Blog:Gailey a good fit for Duke?

Duke can get better: "Analysis: Duke commissioned the Fuqua School of Business to study 22 college programs to determine how it can improve its football program." We can do that right now. (1) Get over yourselves and hire a coach who you will allow to have 6-8 academic exceptions per year; (2) Publicly state that you will not go down that road, that you will hold to your guns and seek a coach with an offensive system that will make you competitive (See Paul Johnson at Navy) with the kids who you will continue to target (that's fine business, just come out and say it); or (3) Man up and lead the creation of a new "Southern Ivy League". Invite Navy, Army, Vandy, Baylor, Rice, Wake (although, they've gotten over themselves already and compete very well in ALL sports), Georgetown, and a few other pseudo Ivy's. Dominate in basketball, be competitive in football, and probably rule the roost in most of the other sports. You can still schedule all of the ACC in Basketball and UNC, State and Wake in football. Have your cake and eat it to!

If packaged properly, you would get a tone of support, a nice TV deal and probably a bowl tie in or two. The Ivy league has left a tone of money on the table by refusing to participate in the system over the year. Like it or not, there are not many brands more powerful globally than Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. Hey, we might be on to something!!!

Dascenzo of the Durham Herald Sun: Winner was clear early on:"The chants of "ACC ... ACC ... ACC" pretty much told the story Tuesday night in Duke's dismantling of bigger, but slower, Wisconsin at Cameron Indoor Stadium."

Roof: Next Duke coach needs to 'get all the facts' : "On his way out the door, former Duke football coach Ted Roof was asked what advice he'd give to the man that will take his place on the sidelines next season." That's an interesting parting shot.

Andrew Jones, The ACC Insider: Dopke Talks Duke Football: "Analyst discusses Blue Devils' football opening."

Miami
Tragedies have claimed other Miami players

Duke
Duke cruises past Wisconsin : "The seventh-ranked Blue Devils played unkind host and beat No. 20 Wisconsin 82-58 to run their season record to 7-0 and their all-time ACC-Big Ten Challenge record to 9-0."

Florida State

'Noles grind down Gophers: "Sophomore Ryan Reid kept 6-foot-9 center Spencer Tollackson in check throughout. Junior Toney Douglas topped the 1,000-point mark for his career but also saved his best for the defensive end."

Mims hits right notes for FSU »

Tubby brings his new team to town »




Hamilton, 'Noles not celebrating »


Clemson
Clemson bowl destination becomes a little clearer: "Clemson’s chances of making the Chick-fil-A Bowl have been cut by a third. Bowl president Gary Stokan said Tuesday that Virginia Tech officials have conveyed interest in returning to the Dec. 31 game in Atlanta if the Hokies lose Saturday’s ACC title game."

Bowden will get contract extension: "As he stood outside Clemson’s locker room Saturday night, athletics director Terry Don Phillips bore a gleeful, if not relieved, smile."

Football Six Tigers earn all-ACC honors: "Four Clemson players were named first-team All-ACC and two earned second-team honors Monday. Clemson running back James Davis, wide receiver Aaron Kelly, offensive guard Chris McDuffie, and offensive tackle Barry Richardson were named to the first team."

Basketball Forward Mays to miss game with injured hip: "With its two highest-profile nonconference opponents coming to town this week, Clemson will likely have to adjust without its most recognizable name."



North Carolina
Frasor may get his shot: "Lawson's injury could open door." Interesting...

No Ty? Go to Frasor : "The coincidence isn't lost on Bobby Frasor. A right foot injury knocked the junior guard out of North Carolina's starting lineup just in time for the Tar Heels' game against Ohio State last season, giving Ty Lawson all the opportunity he needed."

Ohio State teammates have roots in Forsyth


NC State
After 3 wins in Orlando, N.C. State looks back on track : "Sidney Lowe knew something was different with each bus ride, film session and team meeting. Sure, North Carolina State's players were enjoying their trip to Florida for the Old Spice Classic over the Thanksgiving holiday. But the Wolfpack coach also saw a different look in their eyes, one that proved they were treating the tournament as a business trip following a surprising home loss to New Orleans."


Maryland

College basketball: Maryland in no rush to speed youth movement


Virginia

Long-range plan works out well for Cavaliers



UVa assistant coach reprimanded



Georgia Tech

Gailey part of Braine's legacy

Ramblin' On: No honeymoon for new coach

Winkeljohn: Some Day 2 second-guessing?

Recruiting: Prospects reconsider

Jackets players defend Gailey

Tech owes Gailey $4 million

Gailey's tenure mixed


Boston College
BC's Brooks facing assault charges: "While Boston College prepares for its ACC title-game meeting with Virginia Tech, running back A.J. Brooks has non-football-related problems to deal with. The junior is facing charges for allegedly kicking a BC residential adviser in an on-campus altercation Sunday night."

Boston College football team looks for big gain - in respect: "They won 10 regular-season games for the first time in 67 years. They are going to play for a Bowl Championship Series bid to the Orange Bowl Saturday when they face Virginia Tech in the Atlantic Coast Conference championship game in Jacksonville, Fla. They have a quarterback who is going to get a good chunk of votes for the Heisman ..."

Virginia Tech
Improved Virginia Tech gets a rematch with Boston College: "Call it a wakeup call. Or, if you are a fan of Virginia Tech, a starting-over point, one that began a run that they hope brings them their first Atlantic Coast Conference championship Saturday afternoon when the sixth-ranked Hokies face off with No. 12 Boston College in Jacksonville, Fla."

Hokies Kicker Dunlevy: He's Good

Dunlevy fills big shoes quite nicely

Not all bowls want the Hokies

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

PHOTO: R.I.P former Hurricane and Washington Pro Bowler Sean Taylor.

I don't know Sean Taylor or anything about his family. I don't know the facts of this case. I also don't know a lot about the University of Miami football program besides the fact that I had been a fan of their "swag" since I was a kid. They were just fun to watch. That's changed for me a bit as I've gotten older. I must admit that I've become a bit closeted about them over the years (and pained by their strugles on the field)

Having said that, I'm deeply troubled by this incident and so I pose a few questions and thoughts for consideration:

Why does it seem that the University of Miami's football program is always in the midst of mourning the loss or the troubles of one of their players? There's a problem in Dade/Broward County that the schools and families need to take head on and address. A lot of these guys are growing up in tragic circumstances that just seem to follow them wherever they go.

If there were a tragedy/trouble meter for alum of major college football programs, it would shock me if Miami didn't lead the list. That's too bad. Having worked with troubled kids and currently working in a public college environment where 80% of the students receive financial aid, I understand that those Miami guys are, most likely, not bad people. Rather they tend to be products of bad circumstances. Unfortunately the residue of those bad circumstances is often quite difficult to shake.

Machetes under the bed for protection?

Big dogs?

Staying in the house after a break-in 8 days earlier where a knife was left in your bed room?

Not understanding or having the emotional tools to embrace the freedom from crime and violence that a million dollars affords you?

Being burdened with a tortured soul that draws you back into the environment again, and again, and again until tragedy or trouble rears it's head?

There's a problem in Dade/Broward County and it's not the Sean Taylors of the world. It's the people, citizens, and families who have turned their backs on these communities and allowed those kids to grow up in a warped and twisted environment. There can be no doubt that the Sean Taylors out there have to take some responsibility for their circumstances once they are old enough to do so. However, that doesn't change a man's foundation and what he will inevitably return to when backed into a corner.

Sean Taylor was in his home, refusing to be run out by some thug who was trying to terrorize him.

He wasn't doing anything wrong.

He was back in the place he loved, in the place he grew up, in the place that made him the man he was.

Sean Taylor was right.

Sean Taylor, dead at 24 years old.

Redskins' Sean Taylor Dies in Miami Hospital
Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor, 24, dies early Tuesday from the gunshot wound he suffered a day earlier in his Miami home.

Redskins' Taylor dies in Miami-Dade from gunshot wound

Another sad chapter for UM, city

Friends say Taylor has a soft side

Ex-Cane part of the rescue effort

Team Stunned on Monday

Neighbors React to Shooting

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
BCS standings

Sitting Pretty in BCS: "One of the most turbulent college football seasons faces a decisive Saturday with Missouri and West Virginia controlling their own destinies."

Vick now scrambling far too late: "The highlight reel formerly known as Michael Vick spent Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Rivalry Saturday behind bars, his down payment (he and his legal eagles pray) for leniency and an early return to NFL huddles."

Coach K says Duke football must strive for much more : "Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski said he doesn't know what decision the school will make in regards to the future of football coach Ted Roof, but Krzyzewski said he thinks he knows what the football program needs to do to succeed -- regardless of who is head coach." See...he really needs to keep his mouth shut unless he's going to say "the University must give Coach Roof the same recruting flexibility that they have given me over the years if they expect him to be able to compete for championships." If he's not going to say that (or something darned close) he should keep those lips sealed up. He comes close, and does say that he's not sure that "we've given Ted that support" (I'm sorry....Is coach K running the Athletic Department these days [kidding...of course he is, just like El Deano was in years past]).


The conference headlines:
ACC Championship Game - BC's goal the same in rematch - play its best: "The field will be neutral this time for the Boston College football team (although its fans still will be outnumbered), hopefully the weather will be better, and the Eagles once again will be underdogs."

ACC bowls Ga. Tech might be headed to Idaho

ACC-Big Ten Challenge begins today: "Can you really call it a challenge when the ACC has won every series dating back to the first one in 1999?"

Caulton Tudor: Many missed chances hang over Roof's future

Frank Dascenzo: Terrific sums up how Duke is playing right now: "Here's how Blue Devils from all generations can make Mike Krzyzewski happy. On a Sunday afternoon against the Ohio Valley Conference's Eastern Kentucky, you force 38 turnovers, limit the Colonials to 39 percent shooting and, oh yes, you win 78-43."

Aaron McFarling: Hokies marching to new beat

ISRAEL GUTIERREZ: Struggling Hurricanes didn't deserve a bowl game anyway

Virginia Tech
'Time to dance': "Virginia Tech coaches and players are euphoric over another crack at Boston College."

Ore's productive day sparks Tech

Spoils go to Hokies

Royal makes up for passing error with his hands


Clemson
Bowl destination a hot topic after USC win, as is potential contract talks with Bowden: "TIGERS EYE ATLANTA, JACKSONVILLE BOWLS CLEMSON — While exiting his postgame news conference Saturday night, Clemson coach Tommy Bowden was asked whether he had spoken with Baylor regarding its coaching vacancy."

Basketball Hammonds leads Tigers: "Cliff Hammonds had 16 points and seven rebounds to lead No. 24 Clemson to a 96-67 victory over Gardner-Webb on Saturday."


Georgia Tech
Tech AD to meet with Gailey

Terps' big win might send Jackets to Boise

Tuberville, Auburn AD to discuss state of program

Tech fans make the best of another loss

Dogs' streak rolls on, though SEC title out of reach

Booker steps in for hurt Bennett


NC State
Wolfpack toes the line : "Unlike a last-second loss to New Orleans a week ago, N.C. State makes the crucial plays down the stretch to win the Old Spice Classic championship with a 69-68 victory over Villanova." Big time win for the Pack!

An instant replay: N.C. State 5-7, 3-5: "In a way, the Pack's first season under coach Tom O'Brien both peaked and ended with its emotional 31-27 victory over North Carolina. It was State's fourth straight win after a 1-5 start, but O'Brien said he began to sense the Pack."


Duke
King rules Duke's 3-point line : "Just when it looked as if Taylor King had gotten lost in Duke's rotation, the resilient freshman came bolting out of the background Sunday afternoon. He scored 27 points to highlight a 78-43 victory over Eastern Kentucky."

King leads Duke past EKU: "Duke freshman Taylor King said he still hadn't fully recovered from the five-hour time difference between Maui and Durham. King did, however, make an amazing adjustment in terms of playing time from Maui to Durham."

Roof's coaching status still uncertain :"As of Sunday, Duke football coach Ted Roof still had not heard whether he would be fired or retained for 2008 after going 2-33 the past three seasons and 6-45 in four and a half seasons."

An instant replay: Duke 1-11, 0-8: "The Duke Blue Devils went 1-11 in 2007 and are weighted down by a 25-game ACC losing streak going into 2008."


North Carolina
UNC wins Vegas title despite Lawson injury

Hansbrough comes through for Carolina:"Tyler Hansbrough barely even glanced at the MVP trophy sitting at his locker. The star forward was much more pleased by top-ranked North Carolina's defense in a win that required solid efforts from all the healthy Tar Heels."

An instant replay: North Carolina 4-8, 3-5: "Saturday's down-to-the-wire, last-play, 20-14 overtime victory over Duke was, perhaps, the most fitting way for North Carolina to wrap up its first season under coach Butch Davis."


Wake Forest
A ROAD TEST: WFU will play tonight at Iowa

Wake's Justice wins ACC blocking award: "Wake Forest senior center Steve Justice has been named the 2007 recipient of the Jacobs Blocking Trophy. The award is given annually to the Atlantic Coast Conference's top blocker and determined by the league's head coaches. "

GREETINGS: Alphonso Smith introduces himself to Vandy star on the first play of the game: "Alphonso Smith really wanted to meet Earl Bennett. He wasted little time Saturday introducing himself. On the first play of scrimmage in Wake Forest's 31-17 victory against Vanderbilt, Smith lined up at cornerback opposite Bennett, the all-time SEC leader in receptions. Bennett raced down the right sideline, and Smith raced with him."


Maryland
Terps waiting on bowl invite

Maryland trainer on fast track to perfect new racing surface


Virginia
UVa Insider: Leitao advises against premature judgments

Cavaliers admire Glennon

Cavaliers retire Long's jersey

Groh points to 2 plays


LB Sintim apologizes for late hit


Miami
Shannon: Seniors are key : "Coach Randy Shannon said the presence of seniors on UM's football team 'makes a difference' and that he wants more of them. But two talented juniors -- Calais Campbell, left, and Kenny Phillips -- have not decided if they will return for their senior seasons"

Hurricanes secondary struggles in loss

Early departures for UM?

Gulliver's Marti commits to UM

Shannon wants Canes to have stockpile of QBs

We're off today......

...on the road for the Turkey Holiday. We'll see you on Friday.

Ellington expands game to help Tar Heels cruise :"North Carolina gets 19 points and a good, all-around effort from shooting guard Wayne Ellington, as well as the usual inside dominance from Tyler Hansbrough, in a rout of South Carolina State."


Devils perfect in paradise :"Duke, 11-0 all-time in Maui, reaches tourney final. "


Bigger role for Little, at tailback :"When offensive coordinator John Shoop told wide receiver Greg Little last week that the team needed him to step in at tailback, "I thought he meant for a few plays," the freshman said. "

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:

Vick surrenders, begins jail time

John Feinstein: Bonds's Indictment a Step in Right Direction

Speedway incentives could surpass $70 million: "Incentives aimed at keeping Bruton Smith from closing Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord could exceed the figure previously disclosed by Cabarrus County leaders." This is what happens when you shoot off at the mouth. They should have just let the guy build the drag strip. Now, they have to let him build the strip and give him $20M additional just to keep him in town.

Earnhardt says he is eager to move on after another disappointing finish

Shout out to the home team: SOLID PROGRESS: WSSU's football program appears on right track after 6-5 season that included some close losses

The conference headlines:

Frank Dascenzo of the Durham Herald Sun: Limping to the end : "The good news today is that the college football season is nearly over around here. Dealing in reality can sometimes be disappointing, even painful depending on whether you coach for a living."

Aaron McFarling: Glory comes to fullback

Duke

No. 13 Duke gets 83-61 victory over Princeton in Maui tournament: "Just another big win on Maui for the Duke Blue Devils. Freshman forward Kyle Singler had 21 points and 12 rebounds and No. 13 Duke kept its perfect record on Maui intact with an 83-61 victory over Princeton on Monday night in the opening round of the EA Sports Maui Invitational."

Nelson's final shot : "Derailed by injuries for his first three seasons at Duke, senior DeMarcus Nelson is ready to take his last -- and best -- shot at displaying his true ability on the basketball court."

Wake Forest

Deacs get win, but still unhappy :"WFU coasts 75-58 against N.C. CentralWake Forest's home court of Joel Coliseum proved far more hospitable to N.C. Central than Fargo, N.D., during the Deacons' lackluster 75-58 nonconference victory last night.
"The only reason I would go back to North Dakota is because I maybe had to smack a buffalo on his nose," Coach Henry Dickerson of the Eagles said. "Other than that I'm not going back.
"You talk about cold.""

Eagles gain respect in loss to Wake : "Wake Forest didn’t surprise many people with a comfortable victory over N.C. Central on Monday night. L.D. Williams’ 14 points led three Deacons in double figures in a 75-58 win at Joel Coliseum in the schools’ first meeting in men’s basketball."

Maryland

Bruins Sprint By Terps: "Maryland's struggles continue as the Terps fall into an early hole Monday and commit 21 turnovers in a 71-59 loss to second-ranked UCLA."

Terps Seek Win, Bowl Berth

NC State
Wolfpack basketball has some 'issues':"Just two games into N.C. State's season, bickering about playing time apparently has already begun."

Blue field is OK with Pack WR: "To qualify for a bowl game, State (5-6, 3-4 ACC) must beat Maryland (5-6, 2-5) on Saturday at Carter-Finley Stadium."

O'Brien sees improvement, need for more
Tom O'Brien is proud of his team. He likes the way N.C. State's players kept plugging after a 1-5 start, how they applied themselves every week in practice, how they turned things around and won four games in a row.

State forced to refocus after last loss: "North Carolina didn't beat N.C. State on the football field 10 days ago, but the lingering effect of that game might have led to the Wolfpack's downfall at Wake."

Georgia Tech

Jackets turn cold in tropics

Brooks a finalist for punter award

Causey's three-pointer lifts Jackets over Irish

The cons and pros of retaining Gailey

Miller likely to miss third game for Jackets

Florida State

Tebow's 'going down' : "FSU linebacker Geno Hayes said UF quarterback Tim Tebow 'is going down this week,' one day after teammate Dekoda Watson said he has had his fill of all the Tebow hype."

Tebow doesn't scare FSU's Hayes:"Courtesy of Florida State linebacker Geno Hayes, Florida's bulletin board will surely have new press clippings tacked up today."

FSU says it will take care of Tebow : "It didn't take long for the trash talk to start flowing for Florida State-Florida week. Junior linebacker Geno Hayes, who arguably is Florida State's biggest playmaker on defense, declared Monday afternoon that FSU planned to ''shatter'' the Heisman Trophy dreams of Florida quarterback Tim Tebow this Saturday."

FSU tired of all the Tebow talk :"Florida State linebacker Dekoda Watson isn't particularly excited about facing Florida quarterback Tim Tebow this Saturday in Gainesville. Given the choice, though, he'll take that over watching Tebow on TV."

FSU's Fisher a hot name in coaching circles : "Offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher, who was considered a front-runner for several coaching jobs last winter before joining Bobby Bowden's staff, isn't surprised that his name has surfaced in connection with potential vacancies in the Southeastern Conference."

Boatman's best memory as 'Nole is win at Miami »

Fisher's focus is on helping FSU improve »

Miami

Bowl hopes still alive : "With one game left in the regular season, the University of Miami will be fighting for its postseason life at noon Saturday against No. 15 Boston College with hopes of landing a spot in the Emerald Bowl."

Virginia Tech

TECH NOTES

For Better or for Worse: "One running back is a breakout star and the other has been a national afterthought, but the reputations of Virginia's Mikell Simpson and Virginia Tech's Branden Ore, above, will take a back seat during Saturday's in-state grudge match in Charlottesville."

A good deed with bragging rights:"Saturday afternoon we'll find out which team is better at football, but Wayne Nystrom measures school pride more charitably."

Pedal, metal meet for fast-closing Harper

Hokies penning a blockbuster script

Virginia

UVa Insider: Cavalier player pool big enough for Brandenburg

UVa's handyman: "Despite suffering an injury, Maurice Covington leads the Virginia receivers."

Redeemed with wins:"The worst day of his life? Maybe not. But Sept. 1, in Laramie, Wyo., Jameel Sewell suffered through what he calls the worst football game of his life."

Clemson
Tigers struggle to regain their form: "Team near-forlorn practicing for USC after draining loss to Boston College. With family members spending the night after Clemson’s big game, junior receiver Aaron Kelly put on his bravest face and tried to convey a sense of normalcy."

Tigers may head to Gator Bowl: "When junior tailback James Davis examined what remains on Clemson’s table, he vaguely targeted a prominent bowl game."

North Carolina
Butch: Kenan needs another 8,000-10,000 seats: "North Carolina coach Butch Davis said Monday he'd like to see Kenan Stadium expand by 8,000-10,000 seats via a combination of general admission, club seating and skyboxes, although he knows it probably won't happen all at once."

UNC's Little makes move up depth chart: "Johnny White had a chance. Then Ryan Houston gave it his best shot. After that, Anthony Elzy looked liked the answer for a little while."

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!


PHOTO: Did you see that dunk on the Iona kid......wow.

Getting your mind right:
Nothing a sure bet in this BCS season: "ESPN cracks me up. It spends all of Thursday telling us how much of a lock Oregon is for the BCS title game, completely ignoring the fact that the Ducks had to play two of their final three games on the road."

The Joy of Six, the Pain of the Rest

UNC field hockey completes perfect seasonCOLLEGE PARK, Md. -- North Carolina capped an outstanding season with a perfect ending Sunday afternoon, earning a 3-0 shutout win over Penn State in the 2007 NCAA Championship game at the University of Maryland's Field Hockey & Lacrosse Complex.

The conference headlines:

BCS standings

Notebook Plus: All-ACC football nominations mindboggling as usual

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer:Time's up for Roof, if Duke cares : "A year after North Carolina and N.C. State fired football coaches, Duke has to make a decision on Ted Roof's future." The decision ought to be to give him the same lattitude that Coach K has to recruit with. Give him the same lattitude that Coach Grobe at Wake Forest has. It's flat out wrong to fire a guy when you force him to compete with both hands tied behind his back.

Michael Cunningham: Fans must face it: 'Canes just aren't good enough


NC State
Privateers party at RBC : "New Orleans, which was coached by Pack assistant Monte Towe from 2002-06, gets a "lucky" 3-point basket during a late, frantic possession to stun No. 21 N.C. State 65-63 on Sunday at the RBC Center." That's a really bad break for the Pack and a bad loss for the conference.

NCSU postgame clipboard: "If N.C. State's stock was rising -- especially among bowl people -- after four straight wins, the Pack's 38-18 loss Saturday at Wake Forest was a major correction."


North Carolina

Hansbrough hammers back at Iona's strategy: "6-9 forward absorbs battering, scores 27. Tyler Hansbrough almost never looks up at the Smith Center video boards to watch his replays." Did you see him bring the house down on that kids head.....funny!

UNC unleashes the beast : "Hansbrough punctuates his 27-point, 9-rebound night with a monster dunk."

UNC postgame clipboard: "A day after North Carolina lost its sixth game this season by seven or fewer points -- 27-25 at Georgia Tech -- coach Butch Davis would not comment Sunday on whether he wants a contract extension or is negotiating one with the school." Interesting.....

UNC's Davis not talking about contract


Miami

Freshman Dews leads the Hurricanes to Tip-Off title : "James Dews scored nine of his 17 points in the second half to lead Miami to a 64-58 win over Providence on Sunday night to win the championship of the Puerto Rico Tip-Off."

'Canes watch bowl hopes take big hit

Wright battered by blitzes


Florida State

Tebow not FSU's only worry: "It's not just about Tim Tebow."

Bowden not ready to pick a tailback »


Wake Forest

Coming-out Party: Williams shines for WFU: "Senior Kenneth Moore played his final home game for Wake Forest Saturday and freshman Jordan Williams made his first big play to remember. A torch was passed that promises to burn ACC defenses for years to come."

Motivation: Deacs to vie for minutes


Boston College

Eagles try not to put on airs: "The Boston College football team can relax - for a few days at least - before it picks up the pace in preparation for its final regular-season game, against Miami at Alumni Stadium."

Ryan right back in Heisman race: "The battle for the top two slots in the Bowl Championship Series is not over, as another Top 5 team - No. 3 Oklahoma - lost Saturday. But we could make the same observation about the Heisman Trophy race."


Duke
Maui no vacation for Devils : "Duke's previous three teams to play in the picturesque paradise of Maui sailed to championships, but Duke's current team knows this week's tournament won't be a walk on the beach -- literally or figuratively."


Maryland

Terrapins Are Both Undefeated, Unsatisfied

QB pressure coming from Friedgen


Virginia Tech

VT Insider: Hokies line coach Newsome feeling better these days

Hokies penning a blockbuster script

Hokies keep stride


Clemson
Somber Tigers must rebound in rivalry game: "Clemson’s Tommy Bowden has a history of getting his team ready for the Gamecocks no matter the circumstances entering the game. One team’s breakthrough has left Clemson to pick up the shards. Before Saturday’s division-clinching 20-17 victory, Boston College coach Jeff Jagodzinski told his team that while they had banged their heads on the proverbial glass ceiling for years, the ceiling was glass for a reason — so the Eagles could bust through it."

Mays sparks rally for win: "For the first 28 minutes of Saturday’s 66-53 victory against Old Dominion, the Clemson Tigers appeared lethargic at best."




Georgia Tech

Miller likely to miss third game for Jackets

Jackets turn cold in tropics

Plenty on line for both sides in UGA-Tech game

No gimmicks in Tech's plan for Georgia

Emerald Bowl seems most likely for Jackets


Virginia

UVa Insider: Cavalier player pool big enough for Brandenburg

Sewell compares well with noted predecessors

The Daily Roundup: KickOff Friday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
The Weekend Smoke: Stogie Review: Sancho Panza Extra Fuerte Madrid

Duke SuperBowl. Nice! Hat tip to Ben.

Barry Bonds Indicted: "Barry Bonds is indicted by a federal grand jury on four counts of perjury and one of obstruction of justice charge related to his statements on performance-enhancing drugs."

Wilbon: Giant Catch for Feds

DEPTHS: Irish are seeking inspiration

Hey...my old school where my first job was is playing for a title:
Unicorns play today for 1-A title - "Sports teams from the N.C. School of Science & Math always have to come together quickly. Representing a school with no freshmen or sophomores, the Unicorns always start their seasons with only one class of athletes returning from last season."

Just a Chance: Appalachian State's Richardson made the most of an opportunity:" Kevin Richardson had no idea what the future held for him when he came to Appalachian State in the fall of 2004. He was a relative unknown out of a small high school in rural Bladen County with no scholarship offer and no guarantee of playing time."I was a 'preferred walk-on', whatever that means," Richardson said.And, at that, he wasn't overly preferred. Stuck with No. 42, a jersey that no one else wanted, he was off to an inauspicious start."


The conference headlines:
Roof almost coached at Notre Dame

Notre Dame, Duke share a lot:"The storied winner and the longtime loser are both 1-9 heading into Saturday's game at historic Notre Dame Stadium. "

ACC QBs mostly star-crossed: "Tudor:Along with a ticket to the ACC football championship game, the race for the league's all-star quarterback likely will be settled when Boston College visits Clemson on Saturday."

From Andrew Jones, The ACC Insider: Dopke Talks N.C. State: "College football analyst Brad Dopke on the Wolfpack's win streak, Tom O'Brien and the direction of the program."


Wake Forest
Wake lands a top class despite shock of death


Miami
King, Hurricanes cruise past Marist : "Anthony King scored 13 points, had five rebounds and four blocks to lead Miami to an 81-65 win over Marist at the Puerto Rico Tip-Off Thursday."

Canes' confidence shows in win over Marist : "The University of Miami men's basketball team didn't have much depth last year. But the way confidence is building and the way the team is winning these days -- with a lot of depth -- don't be surprised if you see it on a Hurricanes T-shirt soon."

`Canes look relaxed:"Down came the rain and washed the Hurricanes' frustrations away. After..."

Former 'Cane Vilma could need 2 years to recover

Bad break didn't stop Hokies' Flowers

UM's Farquharson has Va. Tech 'experience'


NC State
Perfect beginning for Pack's Hickson : "N.C. State's J.J. Hickson sets a school scoring record ith 31 points in his collegiate debut as the Wolfpack easily wins its opener over William & Mary. He makes 12-for-12 from the field, hits seven free throws and collects seven rebounds." Pretty good start...

State gets Williams, Mays to sign on line


Maryland
Terps survive close call, beat Northeastern in OT


North Carolina
UNC coach: We missed out on Curry

A quarterback on his heels :"Despite several freshman passing records, North Carolina freshman T.J. Yates may not remain UNC's starter."

UNC's Yates improving despite stat decline:"T.J. Yates started out the season looking more like TD Yates. North Carolina's redshirt freshman quarterback tossed a 65-yard touchdown pass on the first throw of his college career. He threw for three touchdowns in each of his first three games and was on pace to break nearly every single-season passing mark in UNC's record book. "


Clemson
Receiver races past perceptions: "There are certain qualities about Tyler Grisham, Clemson's outstanding junior wide receiver, that are noticeable at first glance. He has good hands. He is a hard-nosed player. He is fast and an excellent route-runner. He is short for a receiver, at a shade under 5-foot-11."

McDuffie offers offensive relief: "The interior of No. 15 Clemson’s offensive line gained some relief Thursday. Both senior left guard Chris McDuffie and junior reserve Bobby Hutchinson will play in Saturday’s game against Boston College, line coach Brad Scott said."

Tigers scramble to contain Ryan: "Preparing for Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan has required the Clemson defense to brush up on its emergency plan."


Georgia Tech
Ga. Tech's Choice a mentor to Dwyer:"The first word Jonathan Dwyer used to describe Tashard Choice as a mentor was a surprise"

Illinois point guard signs with Jackets

Gailey's status won't cloud bowl bid

Tech probation ends, but effects linger

Jackets have classwork in paradise

Gailey plays down job speculation


Virginia Tech
Mended and mad: "After missing a month's worth of football games, Vince Hall is ready to see some action again."

Different account given for shooting


Virginia
UVa hoops eventually gets in gear


Florida State
Holloway creates fans: "The fan club is expanding this season to include coaches Jimbo Fisher and Bobby Bowden. But Seddrick Holloway always had his admirers, including the mother of Lincoln High School football coach Kyle Rice."

Seniors have chance to add to memories »

FSU's Verdell out with broken foot »

Ponder impresses a former 'Nole - his dad »

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Football Coverage!!!!!

Getting your mind right:

Weis: Nothing fun about a 1-9 record. I will be even less fun when the Dukies roll into Notre Dame Stadium this week and beat you. Oh yes, you heard it here first.... Duke beats Notre Dame.

Recruits critical of UM : "Several football players being recruited heavily by UM sharply criticized Canes players this week. And the Canes don't want to hear it." Wow....

Kansas QB not short on talent: "Reesing measures up for 10-0 Jayhawks despite standing just 5 feet 10."

Doping Divide an Issue: "Anti-doping authorities are changing tactics in the way they seek to limit drug cheating in Olympic sports, but a gulf exists between rich and poor countries and their ability to comply."

Shout to the home team: HOT TICKET: Move to new conference, Division I has markedly increased WSSU attendance


The conference headlines:
Andrew Jones of the Wilmington Sun: ACC's geometry could be triangular again - "Brace yourselves, ACC history buffs, a familiar tune that hasn't been played in 17 years might be upon us."

Bob Gibbons' pre-signing day analysis of the ACC

ACC teams are preparing for basketball signing day

Wildcats welcome national attention: "North Carolina game comes with spotlight. The Davidson Wildcats say they are ready for this." I don't know.....

The ACC Insider Andrew Jones:
Q&A With 1983 NCSU Title Author: "When March Went Mad author Tim Peeler discusses his book about N.C. State's amazing run to the 1983 NCAA title."

UNC's Road Futility: "Tar Heels hope to end ugly streak outside its borders this weekend."
Get over there!!


Virginia Tech
TECH NOTES

Tech players target of shooting

College Football: Gunshots Fired at Apartment Of Virginia Tech Player Harris

Tech players unhurt after shooting: "Assailants fired several rounds into Harris' dwelling after dispute."

Harris: Shooting was a random situation

Hokies-Cavaliers to kick off at noon


Florida State
FSU mixed on early signings: "Florida State coaches have a right to feel good about the 2008 recruiting class. They also have reason to be a bit nervous."

FSU's Verdell out with broken foot: "Florida State will face a Maryland offense that had more success rushing against Boston College than any team this season. And FSU must do it without key backup linebacker Toddrick Verdell, who broke his foot against Virginia Tech."


Georgia Tech
Not looking past Heels: "UNC's aching for an out-of-state win, but Jackets are seeking.500 or better mark in ACC."

Nnamaka scores 28 for Jackets in win

Choice pays price to be able to play

Choice emotional about retired jersey


North Carolina
More mature Lawson can make Heels go : "Sophomore point guard Ty Lawson admits he likes to have fun and be a kid, but he knows that if top-ranked North Carolina is to make a serious run at the NCAA title, it all starts with him."

Tar Heels open with Davidson, challenge : "Roy Williams didn't schedule Davidson to help North Carolina acclimate to the Charlotte Bobcats Arena, site of this year's ACC Tournament."

Davidson no opening-day cupcake: "North Carolina's date with Davidson tonight at Bobcats Arena in Charlotte isn't your typical season-opener for a major conference program."


Clemson
Hot Clemson's goal: ACC title: "Tigers can win division by beating BC."

Stats or statues?: "BC’s Matt Ryan is a Heisman candidate, but is Clemson’s Cullen Harper having the better season? Part of Cullen Harper’s unconventional throwing motion involves pretending he is reaching back and grabbing an item off a shelf."

Different setup for big game: "Sophomore center Thomas Austin hopes No. 15 Clemson’s emotional peak does not preclude a descent into Death Valley."

Bowden is righting the ship yet again

Football Failed rally still sparks Tigers’ offense

Basketball Tigers’ swarming defense overwhelms Paladins


Wake Forest
Deacs face high expectations: "Grobe says its good that fans, foes are expecting more from WFU." Absolutely....

Colleges' quest for Walker brings his teammates into the spotlight, too


Duke
Vaas has plenty of knowledge about Fighting Irish: "For the third consecutive season, Peter Vaas will be on the field when Notre Dame's seniors play their final home game Saturday."


Boston College
BC defeats Florida Atlantic, 68-62: "When the Boston College men's basketball team drew open the curtains of its 2007-08 campaign Saturday in a nonconference home game against New Hampshire, the Eagles were forced to play without two key starters, junior guard Tyrese Rice and sophomore forward Shamari Spears, and rely upon major contributions from the freshman class."


Maryland
Terps' Turner improves his snap judgment

Terrapins Notebook: Back at Practice, Crummey Wants To Play Saturday

Maryland, Vasquez hold off Hampton

Terps' Turner honored by ACC


Miami
Hurricanes' passing game receives a failing grade : "It is becoming less of an option after each poor performance."

UM tailbacks banged up : "TAILBACKS DEPLETED As the season progresses, the injuries increase. And this week, the Hurricanes running game appears to have taken a hit. Freshman running back Graig Cooper was wearing a brace on his right knee and was on the sideline working out with the other injured players. Also on the sideline, but on crutches and in a cast up to his left knee, was running back Shawnbrey McNeal."

Former 'Cane Vilma could need 2 years to recover

Keeping recruits a concern amid UM's slide

Former 'Cane Braun, Pedroia named Rookies of the Year

South Florida teams give fans chances to get up close, personal

We're off today....

.....work related stuff but, as always, we never leave you high and dry.


Devils dash to victory
Duke withstands a modest second-half surge and beats New Mexico State, a team picked to finish first in the Western Athletic Conference by the media, 86-61 at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

Wolfpack silent on bowl talk
N.C. State coach Tom O'Brien doesn't want to talk about bowls. But bowl people in Charlotte and San Francisco now are mentioning the Pack (5-5, 3-3 ACC).

Terps survive CBE Classic challenge: "Maryland blew a 14-point lead, committed 22 turnovers and missed more than half its field goal attempts."

Two Better Than One: "After insinuating he'd stick with one quarterback, Virginia Tech coach Frank Beamer uses Sean Glennon and Tyrod Taylor in Saturday's win."

Terrapins Are Feeling the Heat

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Football Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:

LSU, Oregon sit at top of latest BCS standings

Ron Morris: ACC is color blind on the basketball sidelines

Former Ely and FSU star Corey Simon's NFL career cut short : Great example of a guy who has his head on straight and used Football as long as he could, but had a Plan B. Good for you, Corey!!!

Big 12: A dozen not dozin': "Throughout a season in which form seldom has been followed, the Pacific 10 and Southeastern Conference have been regarded as the best conferences."

The legacy of Title IX: "LAST NIGHT, ESPN opened its coverage of women's college basketball with the Rutgers team in the primetime slot. Within a month's time, Rutgers, which entered the season ranked number three in the AP poll, will make four appearances on the premiere sports network. Primetime television coverage of women's sports wouldn't exist but for a dramatic change in public attitude toward ..."

The conference headlines:

Andrew Jones of the ACC Insider:

ACC Report Card: "Tigers, Cavs and Hokies gets As for their performances this past weekend.

Men ACC Basketball preview

Aaron McFarling: Hokies expel ghosts

In A Zone, Duke Rolls: "Blue Devils score most points in 10 years in the easy victory."

Clemson

'Tourney or bust': "Clemson coach Oliver Purnell determines that a winning record in the ACC is paramount."

Basketball Tigers counting on Stitt to step up: "At one point during Clemson’s exhibition game, coach Oliver Purnell briefly chastised freshman point guard Demontez Stitt for being on the wrong side of the court to take the inbound pass after a made basket."

Duke
Running mates: Smith and Paulus split PG duties : "Point guards Greg Paulus and Nolan Smith are among the Duke players putting in a collective effort to help the Blue Devils return to the top."

Yellow Jackets sting Duke in home finale :"With a defensive touchdown, a blocked punt and a long touchdown pass, Duke made enough field-flipping, game-changing plays to possibly pull out a win for its seniors in their final home game Saturday."

Maryland

Terps say success is up for grabs

Missed Dunk Gets Terrapins Going

Maryland Rewind

NEWS & NOTES: For Terps, It's A Nice Change

NC State

Pack is ready to play just about anyone :"Is N.C. State the best-coached ACC football team today? Looks like it to me. Watch this Wolfpack go to work, its rising energy level, its rhythm in gear and its belief in what it’s doing — it is a dramatic change. A month ago, the Wolfpack was a 1-5 no-body, searching for answers. Now Tom O’Brien finds himself not only with a four-game winning streak but a dramatic 31-27 come-from-behind win over North Carolina."

Virginia

Area Men: After Wait, Baker Shines for Virginia

Baker shines in Cavs' debut: "Transfer from W&M helps U.Va. thrash Vermont in opener."

For Cavs, rout is one to savor

Virginia Tech

VT Insider: A free ride for the ages?

November kind to Hokies in ACC

Florida State Wannabes Wanna Beat Florida State: And they did....sorry that we missed this one. Very good read.

Miami:

Shannon: 'I'm not quitting on this team' : "A day after one of the most embarrassing losses in school history, Miami Hurricanes coach Randy Shannon offered one guarantee." Yes, but are the players (and perhaps the school) going to quit on you). I hate to say it, but that is an unacceptable loss at the University of Miami.

Uphill battle for Canes : "As if losing 48-0 to Virginia in the University of Miami's last game at the Orange Bowl wasn't enough to frazzle the Hurricanes, their trip to hostile -- and chilly -- Blacksburg, Va., for Saturday's next-to-last regular-season game could be yet another burden to bear."

North Carolina

Yates, Tar Heels know they keep coming close :"North Carolina’s offense had struggled for most of the game before quarterback T.J. Yates and his teammates trotted onto the field with one last chance for redemption."

Clemson

Hungry: Tigers yearning for a spot in ACC title game

Boston College

Eagles winged but still can fly: "It wasn't just the loss, although that was a factor. It wasn't the mental letdown, although that was a contributing force. And it wasn't the general malaise, now three weeks old, although that also was part of the problem."

Georgia Tech

Jackets find their game in 2nd half

Tech QB Bennett gets confidence boost

Tech defense quietly solid

Choice makes impressive return in Tech win

Three key reasons Tech won

Wake Forest

Bowl angst: Deacons say bid is not guaranteed

Florida State

'Noles must heal from physical, mental beating : "About the only thing Bobby Bowden could do was make a joke."

Status uncertain for several 'Noles: "Florida State coach Bobby Bowden expects to have a better handle on his team's eight-player deep injury list and Xavier Lee's status today."

The Daily Roundup: Kick Off Friday

The BEST ACC Football Coverage!!!

Getting your minds right:

The Weekend Smoke from the Stogieguys.com: Stogie Reviews: Arturo Fuente Don Carlos No. 2

Fitting ending will be upset: "If the regular season plays out without any more upsets involving teams in the top 5, the Bowl Championship Series national championship game in New Orleans Jan. 7 will likely pit Ohio State and Louisiana State."

Louisville hits Duke with suit: "Schools claims breach of contract."

The conference headlines:

ACC Preview from the AJC

The ACC At A Glance

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer: This time, it's about the game: "It's taken what seems like forever, but a North Carolina vs. N.C. State football game is about to be played amid a relatively low degree of coaching pressure."

Lennox Rawlings of the Winston-Salem Journal: HEELS AHEAD: UNC is the ACC's strongest national contender, but Duke, N.C. State could also make waves

The ACC Insider, Andrew Jones -

ACC Hoops Slate Analysis: Wake: "Demon Deacons move on with fairly challenging schedule."

Gerald Henderson Q&A:"Short conversation with Duke sophomore about his team and the incident in Chapel Hill last March."

Get over there!!

Time to hoop it up: "Matt Winkeljohn of the AJC says Jackets ready to get started."

Hard to please Tech fans: "With Yellow Jackets Nation up in arms, Terence Moore asks Bill Curry for insight."

The ACC He## Bowl: "That's as charitable as Jeff Schultz can get predicting the Tech-Duke winner."

Playing led to leading : "If not for a couple of knee injuries four decades ago, North Carolina's Butch Davis and N.C. State's Tom O'Brien might not be meeting Saturday for a new chapter of a century-old rivalry."

Boston College

Ryan, BC look ahead: "A week ago, it was all laid out in front of them. Top-five ranking, talk of achievements far beyond winning a division championship and league title, a Heisman Trophy front-runner."

Maryland

Ex-BC coach is A-OK with Terps : "Assistant Lempa gives UM inside edge preparing for No. 8 Eagles."

Maryland LB Henderson on his latest injury

Maryland TE Haynos talks about the senior class

Virginia

U.VA. NOTES

UVa Insider: Ex-UVa coach raises eyebrows with WFU cap

Virginia Tech

VT Insider: A free ride for the ages?

Corners' shot:"Tech's Macho Harris and Brandon Flowers will be tested by FSU."

Tech cornerbacks expecting busy day against Florida State

Clemson

Notes: D-line sorts out roles: "Hutchinson sprains ankle in practice, raising concerns of depth at guard. Tommy Bowden surmised Clemson needs a strong showing from its defensive line to top Wake Forest. He is just not exactly sure which players will comprise that line come Saturday’s noon kickoff."

Football Fiery Vincent’s smile hides a hurt: "More so than with her other four grandkids, Lena Manning sees her daughter in Clemson junior linebacker Cortney Vincent."

Florida State

Hamilton gets his reward: "Leonard Hamilton has been close to returning Florida State's basketball program to the NCAA Tournament. He'll renew that quest tonight knowing he has the confidence of the FSU administration."

Thacker to face jilted Hokies: "Defensive lineman Budd Thacker had his mind made up. He committed to Virginia Tech, where he planned to follow in his father's footsteps."

Georgia Tech

Former Jacket warns against repeat of 2003

Jackets have numbers, stress cohesion

Choice will play, with all eyes on knee

Jackets try to beat last year's 9-5 mark

Robertson climbs the draft ranks

Miami

Haith expects UM basketball to contend for NCAA berth : "If University of Miami men's basketball coach Frank Haith was a player, then last season's injury-riddled campaign would probably be worthy of a redshirt."

UM fans ready for fond farewell : "For nearly 20 years, Louetta Wilson, better known as Miss Fort Myers to her West End Zone Crew pals, has driven home from downtown Miami on fall Saturdays in pain. But it has been a good pain."

Duke
Paulus, Smith point the way for Duke : "The Blue Devils' season hinges on how well Greg Paulus and Nolan Smith disrupt opposing point guards, and it begins tonight against N.C. Central."

North Carolina

Deon vs. Alex: Neither overly worried about who will start for Tar Heels : "Deon Thompson doesn't understand all the fuss. Yes, Brandan Wright is gone. And, yes, Thompson and fellow sophomore Alex Stepheson both want to fill the starting spot down low that Wright left on the North Carolina men's basketball team."

At the Head of the Class: Hansbrough decided to come back to North Carolina for his junior season in hopes of winning a national

Balmer has only one speed: full tilt: "Tar Heels' senior tackle says he learned early to play as hard as you can."

NC State

Exactly the Point: Pack's rise in the ACC depends on emergence of a point guard

Wake Forest

Changing Course: If Corinne Groves stays healthy, Wake Forest should make progress

Deacons to take deep breath : "Wake Forest has a tribute to Prosser scheduled before its season opener against Fairfield tonight."

A Long Way Back: To move up and make their mark, Deacons will have to use their speed and athleticism - to run