• Giglio's ballot (1-12) (13-25)
The ACC has five teams in the preseason AP Top 25 with Virginia Tech leading the way at No. 10. North Carolina is No. 18.
Alabama, the 2009 national champs, open the season at No. 1 and received 54 first-place votes (out of 60). The SEC has six ranked teams, including No. 21 LSU, UNC's opponent in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff.
Miami (13), Georgia Tech (16) and Florida State (20) are the other ranked ACC teams.
AP Top 25
1. Alabama (54)
2. Ohio State (3)
3. Boise State (1)
4. Florida
5. Texas (1)
6. TCU
7. Oklahoma (1)
8. Nebraska
9. Iowa
10. Virginia Tech
11. Oregon
12. Wisconsin
13. Miami
14. USC
15. Pitt
16. Georgia Tech
17. Arkansas
18. UNC
19. Penn State
20. Florida State
21. LSU
22. Auburn
23. Georgia
24. Oregon State
25. West Virginia
Also receiving votes: Cincinnati 108, Stanford 81, Utah 80, South Carolina 71, Houston 66, UConn 32, Notre Dame 31, Missouri 27, BYU 19, Clemson 15, Arizona 15, Texas Tech 14, Navy 12, Washington 8, Texas A&M 7, Ole Miss 6, Oklahoma State 3, Central Michigan 2, Temple 2, Middle Tennessee State 2, Central Florida 1, Boston College 1, SMU 1
Comments
Sigh
Sun, 08/22/2010 - 23:59 — mad_maxAnd the perrenial overhyping of UNC is among us again! Whew, I was starting to miss it! Can't wait to watch the Heels crash and burn this year. No more hiding now boys, people have heard all about you, and this year you have to open up with an SEC team!
I know this will bring ridicule from many of you, but I ask you to wait until the games have been played to call me crazy. And IF I happen to be greatly mistaken, I will openly endure the wrath:
2010 University of North Carolina football regular season = 6-6 (3-5)
copy and paste that to your ACCNow notepads, so that I can later be quoted in either praise or shame...but most likely praise.
Interesting
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 11:58 — SurferCertainly all things are possible, but perhaps a few key injuries would have to come into play? But what I am really surprised at, is that you are saying that UNC will be better this year than NCSU was last year. Thanks.
While you are at it, let us hear your prediction for NCSU?
"But what I am really
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 15:21 — mad_max"But what I am really surprised at, is that you are saying that UNC will be better this year than NCSU was last year. Thanks."
You're welcome?
Ugh, posts like that give me a headache.
1. Why would I (or anyone) really care about comparing UNC's record this season with State's record last season? Apples and oranges dude.
2. Being better than NCSU was last year isn't really saying much. So, I'm not sure why you're thanking me. Did you see that defense last year?
3. The only context in which saying "Thanks" would make sense to me, is if you were just being a smug douchebag, as if you had greatly outwitted and offended me as a State fan. I'm trying to give you the benefit of the doubt here, but it's difficult.
I know a lot of new and resurrected profiles have been on the blog recently, but do not mistake me for an illogical wufpup (at least not until Carolina week).
State isn't part of this article, but since you asked...
2010 NCSU football regular season = 6-6 (3-5)
Eh, I'll believe it when I see it
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 19:06 — Heels20Predicting a Carolina record of 6-6 is assuming a ton goes wrong. Predicting a State record of 6-6 is about right, but I'm thinking 5-7 since Parker returned to Clemson. If Marvin is not suspended for GT, I see us going 9-3. If he is, I'm calling 8-4.
02
Tue, 08/24/2010 - 21:06 — unc098Sounds about right. IF the injury bug doesn't bite to hard it could be even better. Offensively we should be much improved which will only keep that Defense rested and hungry.
Absolutely
Tue, 08/24/2010 - 22:14 — Heels20People will love to call me out for this, but we have the potential to win every single game on our schedule. I just don't want to raise my expectations too much until Butch proves he can win every single game that he's supposed to. No one could foresee what happened with UVa the past two years. Fortunately, it seems even more impossible to lose to them this year, but we'll see. But over the last two years, we've lost what should have been very winnable games against UVa (twice), Maryland and NCSU. We've lost 7 games in which we held a 4th quarter lead. In '08, we were 9 points away from 12-1. Last season, we were 6 points away from 11-2. You can't deny that a team like this doesn't have the potential to post 11 or 12 wins this year, and all the returning experience we have could be a major factor in pushing us over the hump. At the same time, we've had our moments where we couldn't get it done when it counts and that has absolutely killed us. I think anything from 8 to 10 wins is a reasonable prediction. Until our coaching staff can prove they can win close games, 11 is a stretch, and unless you're predicting mass injuries, 7 is a bit pessimistic. Man, I am really looking forward to this season.
One problem
Tue, 08/24/2010 - 23:20 — JPDOhioAt the most important position on the field you have your biggest question mark. As long as TJ is your QB, you are likely to have many moments of not getting it done when it counts.
Agreed
Wed, 08/25/2010 - 01:15 — Heels20That's a valid point. It's also why I would play Renner if he has been better in practice. If experience is so valuable, why not let the younger, more talented player gain some experience? No one has really mentioned it, but we have a ton of young talent on this offense that could make for one heck of a threat in a couple years.
Experience
Wed, 08/25/2010 - 09:42 — JPDOhioGiven the choice, I would say that most coaches default to experience over potential because it is the safe choice. Based on Butch's comments this week, he seems to be following that approach.
However, he did acknowledge that Renner is pushing Yates. So I am reading between the lines here and thinking the TJ is going to be on a very short leash against LSU. Or, could Butch be setting the stage for a surprise decision to start Renner? Just wondering.
leash
Wed, 08/25/2010 - 13:22 — SurferShort leash or not, I am thinking that he is planning to play Renner some against LSU regardless of how T.J. is doing.
I agree Surfer. When one has
Wed, 08/25/2010 - 20:35 — unc098I agree Surfer. When one has useful tools in the toolbox you gotta use them.
All good points Last year
Wed, 08/25/2010 - 09:16 — unc098All good points
Last year our injury riddled offense couldn't stay on the field due to poor decision making on TJs part and inexperience at the receiver position and on the O-line. As health returned the offense was able to win the battle of possession even though they lacked the ability to score. The defense took over that role.
This years offense has the ability to move the ball on the ground and through the air in a way they didn't last year. As Jp says it all gets down to the decision making abilities of the QB. I think TJ will be much improved and more focused than last year. We will see. If he steps up this team has the ability to win most of the games on the schedule.
comparison
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 18:48 — SurferIt's all good. Honestly, I did not think much about it. There was no comparison to an NCSU prediction, so I just used last year's record. I really was just saying any props at all to UNC is appreciated. No smugness here.
BTW, 6-6 for NCSU is a good pick, but would also not be surprised to see + or - a game either way.
can't speak for max
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 13:20 — JPDOhioBut my prediction for State is 6-6. I believe that having Nate Irving back and an improved (but still not great) secondary will result in a better defense.
I can also agree with max's 6-6 prediction for UNC with one caveat. If TJ Yates plays well enough to keep Renner on the bench, he will find a way to lose 6 games for the Tar Heels. I think your best shot is for Yates to tank so bad in the first game that Renner gets his shot to take over the position permanently.
All UNC needs to win at least 8 games is for its QB to avoid mistakes that cost them a game. Renner is an unknown quantity, but he may be able to pull that off. I honestly don't think TJ can.
6-6
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 13:40 — SurferJust curious, do you think 6-6 is enough to give TOB two more years?
I see your point regarding TJ, but I am not quite as down on him as many ( which includes both UNC and non-UNC fans). I think he can avoid the mistakes and hope that if he does not, Renner can learn from them as well.
I'm going out on a limb and
Tue, 08/24/2010 - 21:04 — unc098I'm going out on a limb and saying that TOB needs a winning record and a bowl invite to see more coaching time at NCSU. I am predicting they will do it but the Defense is going to have to step it up.
Hmm...
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 14:14 — YAR8packEvery State fan I know (including me) thinks TOB should, at the very least, be guaranteed at least this season and the next. The guy had to rebuild the depth on a team that was left with absolutely nothing in the proverbial cupboard-folks should start to see some of that this year. The team has also been saddled with an unbelievable amount of injuries every year. Not a whole lot of the bad that has happened over the past three years has been within TOB's control--aside from hiring Mike Archer.
Unless State goes 2-10 this year, and gets absolutely destroyed and embarrassed in everyone of those loses, I guarantee you TOB will have at least another couple years at the helm. Coaches need time. I know that's hard for folks to understand in the current world of sports-panic we live in, but I just hope folks let it happen. Worked out pretty good for a few coaches: Frank Beamer and Mack Brown.
Also, don't forget, TOB's contract runs to 2015, so I doubt folks would be overzealous to get rid of him and pay him for an additional 4 years. There's still Lee "lunatic fringe" Fowler's tab left to pay.
Thanks
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 15:04 — SurferExcellent points. When I said two more years, I was referring to the two beyond this one, I was giving him this year, but that doesn't really make any difference. TOB seems to be doing a good job, but my question was sort of based upon any "improvement" expectations placed on him by Yow. Certainly those buy out deals are not pleasant. Don't you really miss Lee Fowler already?
Agree with yar8pack
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 15:48 — JPDOhioFor all those reasons he stated.
TOB didn't all of a sudden turn into a bad coach when he moved from Boston to Raleigh. He has a system that works, but it is also a system that takes time to develop. The Pack would have to tank the way they did in Amato's last year, and I don't think anyone is expecting that to happen.
Now, if he is still treading water after the 2012 season, you will see a change. But not before then.
Hard to say
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 15:25 — willncsu34If Lee Fowler was still in charge he would have at least 2 more years. No telling with Yow. She may want to bring someone else in.
Fellas...
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 15:43 — YAR8packYou fellas ever heard of Ralph Friedgen's contract and that whole "coach-in-waiting" BS at Maryland? Well, guess who signed off on that lil ditty?
Don't get me wrong, I hope she can help take NC State to national prominence. However, I'm just gonna take the wait-and-see approach.
Also, surfer, these next two years will be the grading years for TOB. If he's not fielding an at least pizza bowl bound team after this year, well, might be time to start polishing up das boot.
Haha
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 02:48 — Heels20Maxy pad, things are much easier on the objective side. You're making a fool out of yourself.
Making a fool out of
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 15:04 — mad_maxMaking a fool out of myself? I don't know, I feel that I'm far from being pitied by Mr T, relative to an abundance of ignorant posts we all see on this blog. Sure, my prediction isn't the norm, but it's not foolishly unrealistic either. Plus, me predicting 8-4 would be boring. I'll give ya ECU, W&M, and Duke of course, but I really feel like the rest of the games could go either way. Games at Rutgers and Virgina may look like sure wins, but road games are always a challenge (especially when you haven't won in a certain location in 30 years). Then of course there is the State game, and you know I can't pick against my boys when they've shown up for that game the last 3 years. The rest of the teams on the schedule will provide quite the challenge...whether they are looking for revenge, just solid teams, or both. I'm not saying Carolina can't win more games, but I think they will go 6-6.
Giglio Top 25
Sun, 08/22/2010 - 22:19 — cookpmYear after year, Giglio leaves WVU out of his top 25. To top it off he does not list one of Pitt's top games against WVU, crazy. WVU will again go to a bowl game and again finish in top 25.
WVU
Mon, 08/23/2010 - 12:45 — jpg (author)Year after year?
You missed the 2007 preseason poll, apparently.
http://blogsarchive.newsobserver.com/accnow/index.php?title=jp_top_25_preseason_2007&more=1&c=1&tb=1&pb=1
— JPG
lucky for you
Sun, 08/22/2010 - 22:32 — gvillegatrMorgantown and Charleston both have newspapers!
1.) dominionpost
2.) wvgazette
Sorry, wrong number ...
Sun, 08/22/2010 - 00:19 — badamsjrDarn it! I must have gotten onto the wrong blog. I thought this one would have comments about the rankings.
snipes
Sun, 08/22/2010 - 10:14 — gvillegatryou've probably seen more snipes than blogs that stayed on subject here at ACCNow. neither fan base allows it!
Darn right
Sun, 08/22/2010 - 10:18 — PuddentainWe've got to nip it in the bud.
Scrimmage
Sat, 08/21/2010 - 14:48 — Heels20Sounded like the Heels' scrimmage went really well today. The defense apparently played great and the offense looked like it was farther along than expected. Marvin wasn't seeing the field, though. Can't be a good sign.
What else can you say about the scrimmage?
Sat, 08/21/2010 - 21:02 — UNC1998There seems to be no public info.
It was shut down from the public
Sun, 08/22/2010 - 10:29 — Heels20I didn't hear much about the QBs. Sounded like we're rotating guys on the offensive line a lot. I'll try and get an update of what's happening with Little.
Pelican Bay
Sat, 08/21/2010 - 21:06 — gvillegatrthey got the practice field on lock down.
If the defense did well
Sat, 08/21/2010 - 17:17 — Puddentainthen the offense was lacking. If the offense did well, the defense was lacking. The best thing would be if they fought each other to a standstill.
in the last week
Sat, 08/21/2010 - 19:23 — gvillegatrthere was a blog written about how ncsu defense was doing well.
whats that you were saying again, ol puddin!? ...
It probably means the O-line wasn't doing well
Sun, 08/22/2010 - 10:18 — PuddentainBut we do have Russell Wilson.
yes
Sun, 08/22/2010 - 15:42 — gvillegatrb/c RW has been leading you guys to winning seasons and ACC Championships! Nice return, fella.
keep setting me up and i'll keep knocking 'em down.
Well
Sat, 08/21/2010 - 17:22 — Heels20That was a smart post...
#18
Sat, 08/21/2010 - 12:59 — gvillegatrthats about right.
But Lord help our opponents if the QB situation clears up like a foggy morning at the beach!
T-R-O-U-B-L-E!
blah
Sat, 08/21/2010 - 11:38 — hdog007Another year, another pre-season over-rating for Butchie Poo's Pastel Pansies. Yawn...
Woofie...
Sat, 08/21/2010 - 20:20 — heelsno1I love attending football games at NC State...great venue and competition! Despite the fact that my daughter is third-generation UNC material, she chose NC State... graduated with honors and fulfilled various leadership roles as part of her developmental experience as a student there. Even though she was accepted to UNC, I am glad that she is a Woofie...it was the right place for her. She is now an ardent Woofie, yet she knows something about mutual respect. Perhaps you missed that course at at NC State.
By the way, I recently attended an event at The State Club on Centennial Campus...awesome!
Jealous
Sat, 08/21/2010 - 11:25 — GrizzlySpitterWhere are the woofies? Thats what I thought. Maybe your team, like its fans, is too busy slamming the Heels in N&O articles to practice?
We're busy laughing at
Fri, 08/27/2010 - 00:32 — TDiddytWe're busy laughing at the meltdown over in Chapel Hill.