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Atlantic Division
Clemson
Coach: Tommy Bowden
2007: 9-4 overall, 5-3 in ACC
Head of the Class – There is little to criticize about James Davis and CJ Spiller, except last year’s performance. While Clemson was favored to win last season’s Atlantic Division, they ended up blowing the conference lead and letting Boston College slip into the title game. They are still the best pair of backs in the conference, and among the best pairs in the NCAA. Look for both to step up this season.
Underachievers – While it is tempting to pick Bowden as the biggest underachiever, grasping defeat from the jaws of victory over and over again, I think the offensive line is a big question mark. Almost the entire group will be new starters, and while talented, the lack of a solid group up front was what held back the head of the class last season.
Academic Suspension – This is Clemson, so you have to be wary of picking them to finish in first place. This year, I also worry about a brewing quarterback controversy. The only reason this didn’t become a major issue last year was that freshman Willy Korn got injured and took a medical red shirt. This year, he is back to challenge Cullen Harper and it will be interesting to watch how Bowden handles a full year of competition.
Wake Forest
Coach: Jim Grobe
2007: 9-4 overall, 5-3 in ACC
Head of the Class – This is a team built on solid defense. Ignore the offense for right now, this defense returns nine starters, and that alone should be enough to keep them in the hunt, not only for the division title but another ACC title. Alphonso Smith should be one of the top defensive backs in college football, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he had 10 or more interceptions.
Underachievers – Hey, offense, wake up. Actually, this season is Riley Skinner’s last, and I think the experience should help him to settle in and push for another post-season honor. Together with Josh Adams at running back, the pair should throw enough numbers on the board to outscore the little that the defense will allow.
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