It's Friday, isn't it? It's more like Groundhog's Day in my world ...
Matt in Concord, N.C., writes: Good to have you back!I just heard that Bryn Renner has quit Baseball to focus on Football. Do you think this is any indication of what the UNC coaching staff has been telling him about playing time? Thanks
HD: Thanks, Matt. Here's what Butch Davis had to say about the competition after the spring game, according to the Wilmington Star-News:
The one thing I can tell you is that this should heat up the quarterback battle, now that Renner's full focus is on football. Still, I have a hard time believing Davis would send a rookie on the road against LSU in favor of a seasoned quarterback. Renner probably wouldn't have given up a sport he loves, though, if he didn't truly believe he would be given an equal shot to unseat Yates. I expect Renner to get his playing time this season, but there will also probably be some growing pains, and that will keep Yates atop the depth chart.
G in Houston, Texas, writes: HD,With the SEC basically throwing down the gauntlet and issuing that if the Big Ten expands (gets bigger) so can we statement, how do you see (if at all) this affecting the ACC? Do you think teams (FSU, VT, Miami, Virginia, etc) accepting invitations to the SEC? And how will it affect the ACC in the end?
HD: Well, it's still all speculation at this point, but I do know that the ACC likes itself just the way it is right now -- a 12-team league. If there is a trickle-down effect, and the SEC is looking to pluck an ACC team, I would guess Florida State, Clemson and Miami -- in that order -- draw the most attention. But really, the ACC is on the backburner in all of this talk. The Big Ten and Notre Dame will likely lead the way. Only after the Big Ten makes the first move will everyone else start to formulate a counter plan. The ACC hasn't released any statement on this, and is unlikely to do so until something happens that actually affects the conference. To answer your final question -- should the ACC lose one of the aforementioned teams, it would be very, very bad.
Aaron in Atlanta writes: Is it true that the ACC will move preemptively and become the first 16 team superconfrence by taking in WVU, Rutgers, Syracuse, and Pitt from the Big East? The rumor is that these four would join with UVA, VaTech, Maryland, and BC to make the new ACC North, while the other existing ACC schools would form the ACC South. This new superconfrence would cover almost 40% of the US population and could demand some serious cash from the networks, or form their own.
HD: Now there's one I haven't heard yet. Like I said, the ACC is content with its 12-team alignment.
Dan in Houston, Texas, writes: Is some team going to take a chance on Myron Rolle?
HD: What's up with the ACC fans in Texas today? Yes, I would think -- and hope -- that somebody takes a chance on Rolle. Our guys at Scouts Inc. have him graded the equivalent of a fifth-round draft pick.
Brad in Durham writes: An inside source told me Brandon Connette has a good shot at starting QB for Duke this year. I was frankly shocked when this person told me this. What's your take?
HD: No doubt Connette had a good spring, but Sean Renfree is expected to be the starter this year and there doesn't seem to be much question about that.
Matt in Concord, N.C., writes: Good to have you back!I just heard that Bryn Renner has quit Baseball to focus on Football. Do you think this is any indication of what the UNC coaching staff has been telling him about playing time? Thanks
HD: Thanks, Matt. Here's what Butch Davis had to say about the competition after the spring game, according to the Wilmington Star-News:
“T.J. has earned the opportunity to be the guy that either earns the job or loses the job,” Davis said. “And Bryn has put himself in position to unbelievably push for that job or significant playing time.”
The one thing I can tell you is that this should heat up the quarterback battle, now that Renner's full focus is on football. Still, I have a hard time believing Davis would send a rookie on the road against LSU in favor of a seasoned quarterback. Renner probably wouldn't have given up a sport he loves, though, if he didn't truly believe he would be given an equal shot to unseat Yates. I expect Renner to get his playing time this season, but there will also probably be some growing pains, and that will keep Yates atop the depth chart.
G in Houston, Texas, writes: HD,With the SEC basically throwing down the gauntlet and issuing that if the Big Ten expands (gets bigger) so can we statement, how do you see (if at all) this affecting the ACC? Do you think teams (FSU, VT, Miami, Virginia, etc) accepting invitations to the SEC? And how will it affect the ACC in the end?
HD: Well, it's still all speculation at this point, but I do know that the ACC likes itself just the way it is right now -- a 12-team league. If there is a trickle-down effect, and the SEC is looking to pluck an ACC team, I would guess Florida State, Clemson and Miami -- in that order -- draw the most attention. But really, the ACC is on the backburner in all of this talk. The Big Ten and Notre Dame will likely lead the way. Only after the Big Ten makes the first move will everyone else start to formulate a counter plan. The ACC hasn't released any statement on this, and is unlikely to do so until something happens that actually affects the conference. To answer your final question -- should the ACC lose one of the aforementioned teams, it would be very, very bad.
Aaron in Atlanta writes: Is it true that the ACC will move preemptively and become the first 16 team superconfrence by taking in WVU, Rutgers, Syracuse, and Pitt from the Big East? The rumor is that these four would join with UVA, VaTech, Maryland, and BC to make the new ACC North, while the other existing ACC schools would form the ACC South. This new superconfrence would cover almost 40% of the US population and could demand some serious cash from the networks, or form their own.
HD: Now there's one I haven't heard yet. Like I said, the ACC is content with its 12-team alignment.
Dan in Houston, Texas, writes: Is some team going to take a chance on Myron Rolle?
HD: What's up with the ACC fans in Texas today? Yes, I would think -- and hope -- that somebody takes a chance on Rolle. Our guys at Scouts Inc. have him graded the equivalent of a fifth-round draft pick.
Brad in Durham writes: An inside source told me Brandon Connette has a good shot at starting QB for Duke this year. I was frankly shocked when this person told me this. What's your take?
HD: No doubt Connette had a good spring, but Sean Renfree is expected to be the starter this year and there doesn't seem to be much question about that.
ESPN's Mel Kiper has a few ACC players on his radar for tonight's second round of the NFL draft. Here's who made the cut in his second-round mock draft:
The analysts at Scouts Inc. project Cook higher, as the second pick in the second round, and he's the only ACC player they have in the second round. The third round seems to be where the ACC will have some good representation, according to Scouts Inc. That's where to find players like Clemson's Ricky Sapp, Virginia Tech's Jason Worilds, and Miami's Jimmy Graham.
- No. 42, Chris Cook, CB, Virginia -- Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- No. 50, Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland -- Kansas City Chiefs
- No. 59, Morgan Burnett, S, Georgia Tech -- Dallas Cowboys
- No. 62, Brandon Ghee, CB, Wake Forest -- Minnesota Vikings
- No. 63, Cam Thomas, DT, North Carolina -- Indianapolis Colts
The analysts at Scouts Inc. project Cook higher, as the second pick in the second round, and he's the only ACC player they have in the second round. The third round seems to be where the ACC will have some good representation, according to Scouts Inc. That's where to find players like Clemson's Ricky Sapp, Virginia Tech's Jason Worilds, and Miami's Jimmy Graham.
Clemson's Parker still after '20-20' goal
April, 23, 2010
Apr 23
4:00
PM ET
Three months ago, Clemson quarterback and outfielder Kyle Parker privately told coach Dabo Swinney that his goal for the 2009-10 academic year was a "20-20" -- throwing 20 touchdown passes, which he did, and matching it with 20 home runs, leading the Tigers to the ACC championship game in both sports.
He's getting very close.
Leave it to longtime Clemson sports information director Tim Bourret to find out if it's ever been done before. According to a note from Bourret, who contacted every FBS school over the past month, no athlete has ever achieved even a "20-15." On Wednesday night, Parker hit a grand slam in the second inning of Clemson’s 22-4 victory over USC Upstate, his 15th home run of the year.
Parker currently leads the ACC in home runs and now has 41 for his three years with No. 20-ranked Clemson, the 10th best in school history. He is hitting .372 for the season entering this weekend’s series with North Carolina and leads the Tigers with 47 runs scored and a .752 slugging percentage to go with 40 RBIs, second best on the team.
More from Bourret's news release:
He's getting very close.
Leave it to longtime Clemson sports information director Tim Bourret to find out if it's ever been done before. According to a note from Bourret, who contacted every FBS school over the past month, no athlete has ever achieved even a "20-15." On Wednesday night, Parker hit a grand slam in the second inning of Clemson’s 22-4 victory over USC Upstate, his 15th home run of the year.
Parker currently leads the ACC in home runs and now has 41 for his three years with No. 20-ranked Clemson, the 10th best in school history. He is hitting .372 for the season entering this weekend’s series with North Carolina and leads the Tigers with 47 runs scored and a .752 slugging percentage to go with 40 RBIs, second best on the team.
More from Bourret's news release:
Only two other FBS football-baseball athletes in history have recorded a “20-10,” with touchdown passes and home runs. Rodney Peete of Southern California had 21 touchdown passes in the fall of 1987, then hit 12 home runs for the Trojans' baseball team in the spring of 1988. Josh Fields of Oklahoma State had 21 touchdown passes for the Cowboys in the fall of 2003, then hit 10 home runs in the spring of 2004. Fields is now with the Kansas City Royals.
John Elway never achieved a “20-10” at Stanford, but came close. He hit nine home runs in the spring of 1982, then threw 24 touchdown passes in the fall of 1982.
While the “20-15” is already an unprecedented accomplishment, Parker said he wants to see his original goal to its finish.
“Twenty-twenty just sounds better,” said Parker.
Miami coach Randy Shannon knows his team will have back injured quarterback Jacory Harris before the start of the 2010 season.
Shannon can only hope running back Graig Cooper is as quick with his recovery from a torn ACL in his right knee.
Shannon said Harris, who missed spring practice after undergoing surgery in January to repair ruptured ligaments in his thumb, should begin throwing again in about two weeks. Backups A.J. Highsmith and Spencer Whipple took snaps for the offense during spring practice.
In his first full season as a starter, Harris completed 59.6 percent of his pass attempts for 3,352 yards with 24 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. He suffered the thumb injury in a 34-16 victory over Duke on Nov. 21, and struggled down the stretch while playing with the injury.
After Cooper partially tore an ACL on the dreadful turf of the Citrus Bowl during the Hurricanes' 20-14 loss to Wisconsin in the Champs Sports Bowl, it was initially feared he would miss all of the 2010 season. But Shannon told reporters during a teleconference on Wednesday that there's a chance Cooper might be ready for the start of the season.
The Hurricanes open the season against Florida A&M at home on Sept. 2.
"It depends on the body, like always" Shannon said. "Has he been in here working out in the weight room? Yes. Has he been going to rehab? Yes. He's not running, but he's not on crutches and looking like a regular person right now. I can't put a date or time. If he keeps doing what he's doing, he's going to be ready for the season."
Cooper led the Hurricanes with 695 rushing yards during their 9-4 season in 2009. Shannon also said junior Damien Berry was "unbelievable" during spring practice, after running for 616 yards with eight touchdowns last season.
Shannon can only hope running back Graig Cooper is as quick with his recovery from a torn ACL in his right knee.
Shannon said Harris, who missed spring practice after undergoing surgery in January to repair ruptured ligaments in his thumb, should begin throwing again in about two weeks. Backups A.J. Highsmith and Spencer Whipple took snaps for the offense during spring practice.
In his first full season as a starter, Harris completed 59.6 percent of his pass attempts for 3,352 yards with 24 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. He suffered the thumb injury in a 34-16 victory over Duke on Nov. 21, and struggled down the stretch while playing with the injury.
After Cooper partially tore an ACL on the dreadful turf of the Citrus Bowl during the Hurricanes' 20-14 loss to Wisconsin in the Champs Sports Bowl, it was initially feared he would miss all of the 2010 season. But Shannon told reporters during a teleconference on Wednesday that there's a chance Cooper might be ready for the start of the season.
The Hurricanes open the season against Florida A&M at home on Sept. 2.
"It depends on the body, like always" Shannon said. "Has he been in here working out in the weight room? Yes. Has he been going to rehab? Yes. He's not running, but he's not on crutches and looking like a regular person right now. I can't put a date or time. If he keeps doing what he's doing, he's going to be ready for the season."
Cooper led the Hurricanes with 695 rushing yards during their 9-4 season in 2009. Shannon also said junior Damien Berry was "unbelievable" during spring practice, after running for 616 yards with eight touchdowns last season.
Being a leader is many things. It's difficult, for one. And necessary for a quarterback.
But it also can be amusing, at least that's what Jamarr Robinson has discovered as he's solidified his standing as Maryland's No. 1 quarterback this spring.
"I find myself yelling at people and then laughing at myself afterwards," said Robinson, who will lead the offense in Saturday's Red-White spring game at Capital One Field at Byrd Stadium.
What's not funny is 2-10, at least if that's your record, as it was the Terrapins' in 2009. It was their worst finish in nine seasons under coach Ralph Friedgen and their worst year since 1997, when they went 2-9 under Ron Vanderlinden.
Of course, that '97 team got beat up just about every week, losing eight games by at least 11 points and two by more than 40 points. Last fall, Maryland found ways to lose. Seven losses came by 11 or fewer points and four by four points or fewer. The Terrapins were good enough to beat Clemson but bad enough to lose to Middle Tennessee at home.
While there were many culprits in 2009 -- youth and injuries are two -- the fundamental problem was a bad offense. And the predominant blame there falls on a line that gave up 36 sacks, which ranked 110th in the nation, and couldn't open holes for the running game, which ranked 105th.
Three starters are back from a unit that must improve -- and probably couldn't get much worse.
"I'm very encouraged by the progress of our offensive line, which was a concern going into spring practice," Friedgen said.
Therein lies reason for hope. If the line holds together, the offense could improve dramatically because there's plenty of skill surrounding Robinson.
There's Da'Rel Scott and Davin Meggett at running back -- "They're going to be a good one-two punch," Friedgen said. There's the return of nine of the top 10 receivers, topped by Torrey Smith, who ranked second in the ACC in receptions with 61 in 2009.
And there's Robinson, who saw significant action last fall, including starting two games when Chris Turner was hurt. He completed 54 percent of his passes for 459 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. He also rushed for 229 yards, 129 of which came against Virginia Tech.
Making his first college start against a rugged Hokies defense wasn't easy, but it should help Robinson in 2010. When he takes the field against Navy on Sept. 6, he won't be nearly as wide-eyed as a quarterback seeing his first playing time.
"It was critical for me going into this season we're about to go into," he said. "Those four games let me know what it's really like to play in a game. If I didn't have it, I'd still have those first-game starting jitters, like I had against Virginia Tech."
His athletic ability should make the offensive line's job easier, but Robinson doesn't want to just be a scrambler. His focus this spring was refining his understanding of the offense and his decision making.
"I have to know where my checkdowns are instead of taking a sack," he said.
Friedgen seemed mostly pleased with all three of his quarterbacks, including Danny O'Brien and C.J. Brown. But Robinson clearly asserted himself.
"Jamarr Robinson has had an excellent spring," Friedgen said. "He has matured. He is playing at a very high level. I've been very pleased with him. Right now, he is the starter."
Robinson said last year's team was young and lacked confidence. No surprise there. Finishing 2-10 will kill a team's confidence. Finishing 2-10 isn't much fun.
The expectation, Robinson said, is things will be a lot more amusing this fall.
"We're going to make a drastic change from what we were last year," he said. "We're a lot better. We're more together."
But it also can be amusing, at least that's what Jamarr Robinson has discovered as he's solidified his standing as Maryland's No. 1 quarterback this spring.
"I find myself yelling at people and then laughing at myself afterwards," said Robinson, who will lead the offense in Saturday's Red-White spring game at Capital One Field at Byrd Stadium.
[+] Enlarge
Ben Solomon/Icon SMIJamarr Robinson hopes to build on his experience from last season.
Of course, that '97 team got beat up just about every week, losing eight games by at least 11 points and two by more than 40 points. Last fall, Maryland found ways to lose. Seven losses came by 11 or fewer points and four by four points or fewer. The Terrapins were good enough to beat Clemson but bad enough to lose to Middle Tennessee at home.
While there were many culprits in 2009 -- youth and injuries are two -- the fundamental problem was a bad offense. And the predominant blame there falls on a line that gave up 36 sacks, which ranked 110th in the nation, and couldn't open holes for the running game, which ranked 105th.
Three starters are back from a unit that must improve -- and probably couldn't get much worse.
"I'm very encouraged by the progress of our offensive line, which was a concern going into spring practice," Friedgen said.
Therein lies reason for hope. If the line holds together, the offense could improve dramatically because there's plenty of skill surrounding Robinson.
There's Da'Rel Scott and Davin Meggett at running back -- "They're going to be a good one-two punch," Friedgen said. There's the return of nine of the top 10 receivers, topped by Torrey Smith, who ranked second in the ACC in receptions with 61 in 2009.
And there's Robinson, who saw significant action last fall, including starting two games when Chris Turner was hurt. He completed 54 percent of his passes for 459 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. He also rushed for 229 yards, 129 of which came against Virginia Tech.
Making his first college start against a rugged Hokies defense wasn't easy, but it should help Robinson in 2010. When he takes the field against Navy on Sept. 6, he won't be nearly as wide-eyed as a quarterback seeing his first playing time.
"It was critical for me going into this season we're about to go into," he said. "Those four games let me know what it's really like to play in a game. If I didn't have it, I'd still have those first-game starting jitters, like I had against Virginia Tech."
His athletic ability should make the offensive line's job easier, but Robinson doesn't want to just be a scrambler. His focus this spring was refining his understanding of the offense and his decision making.
"I have to know where my checkdowns are instead of taking a sack," he said.
Friedgen seemed mostly pleased with all three of his quarterbacks, including Danny O'Brien and C.J. Brown. But Robinson clearly asserted himself.
"Jamarr Robinson has had an excellent spring," Friedgen said. "He has matured. He is playing at a very high level. I've been very pleased with him. Right now, he is the starter."
Robinson said last year's team was young and lacked confidence. No surprise there. Finishing 2-10 will kill a team's confidence. Finishing 2-10 isn't much fun.
The expectation, Robinson said, is things will be a lot more amusing this fall.
"We're going to make a drastic change from what we were last year," he said. "We're a lot better. We're more together."
I present to you links that don't refer to Tim Tebow ...
- The Meineke Car Care Bowl will be played on New Year's Eve this year and televised by ESPN. That's just a few weeks after the ACC championship game in Charlotte. Will UNC play in Charlotte for the third straight postseason?
- Former Duke quarterback Thaddeus Lewis is realistic about his draft prospects, but he's hoping his name is called on Saturday.
- Finally, an ACC quarterback who has decided to concentrate on football, not baseball.
- Andrew Carter of the Orlando Sentinel breaks down how the Noles fared on offense this spring.
- Here's one I missed from earlier this week: Injured Miami running back Graig Cooper might be able to play this fall.
- Former Virginia Tech defensive end Jason Worilds has been a busy man, now it's time to sit and wait.
- Duke, NC State and UNC have wrapped up spring practices with some answers and questions.
BC'S Herzlich works toward full strength
April, 23, 2010
Apr 23
10:30
AM ET
If you haven't done so already, check out colleague Ivan Maisel's story on Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich, who has courageously battled back from cancer to put himself in position to return to the field this season.
The 2008 ACC Defensive Player of the Year had Ewing's sarcoma in his left leg, but went through treatment and is practicing with the team this spring, doing pretty much everything but full contact. Herzlich had a titanium rod inserted in his leg, and while his left leg looks fine, it remains much weaker than his right.
Herzlich talks about his doubters, who use phrases like "We hope you can make it back." In his mind, there's no question about whether he'll play this fall.
Don't bet against him.
The 2008 ACC Defensive Player of the Year had Ewing's sarcoma in his left leg, but went through treatment and is practicing with the team this spring, doing pretty much everything but full contact. Herzlich had a titanium rod inserted in his leg, and while his left leg looks fine, it remains much weaker than his right.
What did that mean on the football field? It meant he could run fast straight ahead. But if he had to plant that left leg or move laterally, his body did not flow. It is the difference in strength between the left leg and the right.
"You make up for it mentally," Herzlich said. "The other leg kind of makes up for it. That's what I need to get away from, because my right leg has been taking more of the load than the left leg. I just have to make sure they balance out. My right leg feels fine but it's kind of an injury waiting to happen if you keep playing like that and don't address it."
Herzlich talks about his doubters, who use phrases like "We hope you can make it back." In his mind, there's no question about whether he'll play this fall.
"It's always good to have hope," he said. "At the same time, it's not like it's just going to happen. I've got to make it happen."
Don't bet against him.
There wasn't much surprise Thursday night when former Clemson running back C.J. Spiller was the ACC's top overall NFL draft pick, as he was chosen ninth overall by the Buffalo Bills. Most analysts agree he was the best running back in this draft class.
Georgia Tech's Derrick Morgan was chosen No. 16 by the Tennessee Titans, and former Jackets receiver Demaryius Thomas followed soon after with the No. 22 overall pick to Denver. The Jackets were one of eight schools to have more than one player chosen in the first round. It was also the first time since 1979 that the school had two players selected in the first round.
And finally, just like FSU coach Jimbo Fisher had predicted, former cornerback Patrick Robinson snuck into the first round with the 32nd pick to the New Orleans Saints. He was the program's first first-round draft pick since 2007.
ESPN's Todd McShay listed Morgan's move to Tennessee as one of his top five "Best marriages of need and value." Former Georgia Tech B-back Jonathan Dwyer and safety Morgan Burnett are both still waiting, but that's not a surprise, according to ESPN's Mel Kiper and McShay, both who left those players off of their final first-round mock drafts.
Two main points stand out from these picks:
Georgia Tech's Derrick Morgan was chosen No. 16 by the Tennessee Titans, and former Jackets receiver Demaryius Thomas followed soon after with the No. 22 overall pick to Denver. The Jackets were one of eight schools to have more than one player chosen in the first round. It was also the first time since 1979 that the school had two players selected in the first round.
And finally, just like FSU coach Jimbo Fisher had predicted, former cornerback Patrick Robinson snuck into the first round with the 32nd pick to the New Orleans Saints. He was the program's first first-round draft pick since 2007.
ESPN's Todd McShay listed Morgan's move to Tennessee as one of his top five "Best marriages of need and value." Former Georgia Tech B-back Jonathan Dwyer and safety Morgan Burnett are both still waiting, but that's not a surprise, according to ESPN's Mel Kiper and McShay, both who left those players off of their final first-round mock drafts.
Two main points stand out from these picks:
- Message to Georgia Tech recruits: Yes, you can be a first-round draft pick at receiver in Paul Johnson's run-based offense -- if you're good enough.
- Any doubts about Spiller's ability should finally be erased. He's had his critics his entire career, but the vote of confidence from the NFL in his abilities should confirm what Spiller proved in 2009 -- he's one of the best players in the country.
A few feel-good facts for you about the ACC and the NFL, thanks to the league office in Greensboro:
- Since 2006, the ACC is the only conference to have had a player taken in the top 10 of the NFL draft every year and has had more overall top 10 draft selections (12) than any other conference: SEC (10), Big Ten (7,) Big 12 (5), Pac-10 (5), Big East (1):
2006 -- Mario Williams, NC State (1st), D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Virginia (4th), Vernon Davis, Maryland (6th), Ernie Sims, FSU.
2007 -- Calvin Johnson, Georgia Tech (2nd), Gaines Adams, Clemson (4th)
2008 -- Chris Long, Virginia (2nd), Matt Ryan, Boston College (3rd)
2009 -- Aaron Curry, Wake Forest (4th), Darrius Heyward-Bey, Maryland (7th), Eugene Monroe, Virginia (8th), B.J. Raji, BC (9th)
- Since 2006, the ACC is the only conference to have had a player taken in the top six of the NFL draft every year and has more top six selections (8) than any other conference. (SEC, 7; Big Ten, 5; Big 12, 2; Pac-10, 2).
- Over the past four years, no other conference has had more players drafted in the first round of the NFL draft. Since becoming a 12-team league, the ACC has had 30 players taken in the first round. No other league has had more players chosen in the first round.
- Miami has had 60 of its former players taken in the first round of the NFL draft. That is the second highest total of any school, trailing only Southern California (69). The Hurricanes have had 295 players chosen overall.
- Miami also enters this year’s draft having had a player chosen for 35 consecutive years. The streak began in 1974.
- Of the 33 ACC players selected in the 2009 NFL draft, all are still on an NFL roster as of April 16.
It's time to talk NFL draft ...
- For the second straight year, Maryland could have another first-round NFL draft pick, but opinions vary on offensive tackle Bruce Campbell.
- Former Georgia Tech wide receiver Demaryius Thomas could end up near my area code if he's chosen by the Baltimore Ravens. Welcome to B-more, Bay-Bay.
- Thomas' big day will mean a lot to his entire community.
- Here's a look at Georgia Tech's draft prospects.
- Former Clemson running back C.J. Spiller has the chance to become only the second Tiger chosen in the top 10 of the draft since 1982.
- Virginia is banking on former cornerback Chris Cook as its lone player with a chance of moving into the opening round.
- Miami's former hoopster-turned-tight-end could be the Canes' top draft pick.
- History implies that UNC's Cam Thomas and Wake's Brandon Ghee will spend about five years in the NFL.
- Will Chris Hazley become the Hokies' next one-year wonder at kicker?
- FSU's potential draft picks could give the program a boost in recruiting -- not that it needs it.
- Miami quarterback Jacory Harris is expected to resume throwing in about two weeks.
Shinskie progressing as BC's quarterback
April, 22, 2010
Apr 22
11:30
AM ET
CHESTNUT HILL, Mass. -- It remains one of the unsung feats of 2009. Boston College began the season with a quarterback who had never taken a snap in a game, a 25-year-old former Double-A reliever named Dave Shinskie, and finished with an 8-5 record. Smoke, meet mirrors.
It is logical to assume that now that Shinskie has earned a letter, all is well and good with the Eagles. Shinskie believes so.
“I have come a long ways on the football field from when I came here last summer,” he said.
His coaches are waiting to be convinced that Shinskie understands the work it takes to be a good quarterback in the Atlantic Coast Conference. They understand why Shinskie may not have figured it out. When you ride buses for seven summers, and your biggest intellectual challenge is a scouting report and which fast-food place the bus may stop at, it’s tough to dive into a daily diet of pass-coverage video.
“You have a game every day,” Shinskie said, “but as a relief pitcher, I wasn’t pitching every day. Here, you have practice or you lift, you’re running or you’re rushing out to make classes in between. You’re rushing out every day somewhere, two meetings a day. It’s the mental part of football that’s time-consuming. That’s the thing that people outside of football don’t understand.”
Shinskie, of course, was outside of football until he came to Boston College. When he describes the difference in him this spring from last season, he sounds as if the light bulb above his helmet may have gone on.
“I can do this,” he said, “if I just know what coverage they are playing before the ball is snapped.”
Veteran coach Gary Tranquill reaffirmed his stature as a master teacher by transforming Shinskie into a serviceable quarterback last season. Shinskie threw for 2,049 yards last season. He threw 15 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. Tranquill spoke in automotive terms. Last year, he said, the offense under Shinskie was “maybe first gear. We’re a little ahead of that; maybe second gear now.”
Shinskie, Tranquill said, “sees things better. He has a little bit better understanding of what’s going on. He throws the ball well. He’s pretty accurate. ... I still think he doesn’t totally understand that one of the things, if the goal is to do better, is spend a little bit more time studying the football part of it, not come over here and forget it until you come back over here.”
Boston College wants more. The analogy that Eagles head coach Frank Spaziani uses indicates how far he believes Shinskie has to go.
“We were admitted to the emergency room last year, with the quarterback situation,” Spaziani said. “We were in dire straits. We came out of the emergency room and we lived. We’re still in intensive care.”
Tranquill has seen more leadership this spring from Shinskie, a guy who lives his life in a low key. And it’s hard to lead when you don’t know Cover 2 from, well, third base.
“You learn that if you might not know what you’re doing, you have to act like you know what you’re doing,” Shinskie said.
Behind Shinskie is sophomore Mike Marscovetra and two January enrollees. No one has put away the smoke and mirrors just yet.
It is logical to assume that now that Shinskie has earned a letter, all is well and good with the Eagles. Shinskie believes so.
[+] Enlarge
Ric Tapia/Icon SMIDave Shinskie threw for 2,049 yards and 15 touchdowns last season.
His coaches are waiting to be convinced that Shinskie understands the work it takes to be a good quarterback in the Atlantic Coast Conference. They understand why Shinskie may not have figured it out. When you ride buses for seven summers, and your biggest intellectual challenge is a scouting report and which fast-food place the bus may stop at, it’s tough to dive into a daily diet of pass-coverage video.
“You have a game every day,” Shinskie said, “but as a relief pitcher, I wasn’t pitching every day. Here, you have practice or you lift, you’re running or you’re rushing out to make classes in between. You’re rushing out every day somewhere, two meetings a day. It’s the mental part of football that’s time-consuming. That’s the thing that people outside of football don’t understand.”
Shinskie, of course, was outside of football until he came to Boston College. When he describes the difference in him this spring from last season, he sounds as if the light bulb above his helmet may have gone on.
“I can do this,” he said, “if I just know what coverage they are playing before the ball is snapped.”
Veteran coach Gary Tranquill reaffirmed his stature as a master teacher by transforming Shinskie into a serviceable quarterback last season. Shinskie threw for 2,049 yards last season. He threw 15 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. Tranquill spoke in automotive terms. Last year, he said, the offense under Shinskie was “maybe first gear. We’re a little ahead of that; maybe second gear now.”
Shinskie, Tranquill said, “sees things better. He has a little bit better understanding of what’s going on. He throws the ball well. He’s pretty accurate. ... I still think he doesn’t totally understand that one of the things, if the goal is to do better, is spend a little bit more time studying the football part of it, not come over here and forget it until you come back over here.”
Boston College wants more. The analogy that Eagles head coach Frank Spaziani uses indicates how far he believes Shinskie has to go.
“We were admitted to the emergency room last year, with the quarterback situation,” Spaziani said. “We were in dire straits. We came out of the emergency room and we lived. We’re still in intensive care.”
Tranquill has seen more leadership this spring from Shinskie, a guy who lives his life in a low key. And it’s hard to lead when you don’t know Cover 2 from, well, third base.
“You learn that if you might not know what you’re doing, you have to act like you know what you’re doing,” Shinskie said.
Behind Shinskie is sophomore Mike Marscovetra and two January enrollees. No one has put away the smoke and mirrors just yet.
CHESTNUT HILL, Mass. -- The difficulty of recruiting usually focuses on the ability to project college-level talent out of a 17-year-old’s performance. But it’s doubly hard to figure out what Boston College head coach Frank Spaziani refers to as “spacing.” He means crunching the numbers on the depth chart so that every season, you have players in every class at every position.
It’s about as hard as a college Statistics class, especially when you toss in injuries, missed projections and transfers.
That’s how the Eagles ended up with the quarterback depth chart showing two sophomores (Dave Shinskie, Mike Marscovetra) and two January enrollees (Joshua Bordner, Chase Rettig).
Then there’s the defensive line, which is so thin it belongs on a Hollywood red carpet. On paper, the Eagles have spacing. But Spaziani indicated that his older players have yet to measure up to what Boston College must replace -- fifth-year seniors Austin Giles, Jim Ramella and Nick Rossi.
“We have guys who have played tackle,” Spaziani said, “but they don’t have the experience and work ethic and understanding of what it takes. ... It’s more in leadership and seniority issues. That’s where the difficulty is.”
There’s always the chance that senior end Alex Albright will be able to remain healthy, or that senior tackle Damik Scafe will blossom. But Spaziani used his defensive line and quarterbacks to preface a solution that he believes would ameliorate the problems of spacing and benefit every scholarship football player. He wants to do away with redshirts and grant every player a fifth year of eligibility.
“You need all 85 guys,” he said. “The NFL did a study and, with their 53-man roster, they end up playing about 80 guys a season.”
Spaziani points out that many players already take five years to graduate, so there would be little additional cost. He believes that playing the young guys on special teams or in spot duty would reduce injuries by spreading out the workload. It would help young players develop and increase the enjoyment. There’s nothing like a redshirt year to make a freshman feel homesick.
The idea has been kicking around college football for years. University presidents have not embraced it. Spaziani made it sound simple and logical.
It’s about as hard as a college Statistics class, especially when you toss in injuries, missed projections and transfers.
[+] Enlarge
Lee Coleman/Icon SMIBC coach Frank Spaziani supports giving every player a fifth year of eligibility.
Then there’s the defensive line, which is so thin it belongs on a Hollywood red carpet. On paper, the Eagles have spacing. But Spaziani indicated that his older players have yet to measure up to what Boston College must replace -- fifth-year seniors Austin Giles, Jim Ramella and Nick Rossi.
“We have guys who have played tackle,” Spaziani said, “but they don’t have the experience and work ethic and understanding of what it takes. ... It’s more in leadership and seniority issues. That’s where the difficulty is.”
There’s always the chance that senior end Alex Albright will be able to remain healthy, or that senior tackle Damik Scafe will blossom. But Spaziani used his defensive line and quarterbacks to preface a solution that he believes would ameliorate the problems of spacing and benefit every scholarship football player. He wants to do away with redshirts and grant every player a fifth year of eligibility.
“You need all 85 guys,” he said. “The NFL did a study and, with their 53-man roster, they end up playing about 80 guys a season.”
Spaziani points out that many players already take five years to graduate, so there would be little additional cost. He believes that playing the young guys on special teams or in spot duty would reduce injuries by spreading out the workload. It would help young players develop and increase the enjoyment. There’s nothing like a redshirt year to make a freshman feel homesick.
The idea has been kicking around college football for years. University presidents have not embraced it. Spaziani made it sound simple and logical.
I know, I know, it's Wednesday, but let's clear some things up, shall we?
The first question comes from Oleg in Miami: Are you officially back? :)
HD: First, thanks to everyone who dropped such nice notes in the mailbag on the new addition to my family. The little man is doing well, and he's already sporting a new ACC hat, thanks to the kind folks in Greensboro. I will be back posting full-time on May 3. Right now I'm just trying to figure out a schedule and get caught up, so thanks for your continued patience.
Now, on to some of your other questions and comments ...
Canesman511 in Tampa writes: With the contract negotiations continuing to drag-on in Miami, what (if any) are the effects on recruiting in your opinion? Is there a "too late" point on when the contract must be signed. I.e. December....
HD: There's no question that every opposing recruiting coach out there has and will continue to use the topic against Shannon. He even admitted so himself. The more it drags on, the more of a distraction it will be. I think it needs to be done before the season opener because Shannon's opening nonconference schedule is far more difficult than any contract negotiation will be.
Gerald in Palatka, Fla., writes: Do you have any pull with the espn execs as it pertains to espn3? I wish they would post a replay of the Clemson Tiger Orange and White Spring Game. Any help you could give would be appreciated. You a great job with your blog by the way. I always enjoy reading your take on the ACC.
HD: I don't have any pull, but I do have answers. Sometimes. There was a transmission issue and the game won't be available on ESPN3.com. Sorry.
Greg in Philadelphia writes: I'm confused. Mark Herzlich was named, in the press release dated 04/15, on the Watch List for the Lott Trophy. However, he is left off the "Watchlist" portion of the website. Boston College has announced he is on the 2010 List. What gives?
HD: He's on there, no worries. I double checked with BC.
Kelly in Blacksburg added this lunchtime link on Michael Vick attending the Hokies' spring game.
Scott in Wilmington, N.C. writes: How is Duke's QB situation going to work out this year? Is Renfree going to be 100% by September? If he is, what are the chances of Duke making a bowl game this year?
HD: Sean Renfree is expected to be Duke's starter this fall, and we saw a glimpse of his talent last year when Thaddeus Lewis was out. The staff is confident in Renfree, and there's no question he has talent, but he's also inexperienced. If Duke is going to make it to a bowl game this year, though, they'll need more than just Renfree playing well.
I'll get back to the regularly scheduled Friday mailbag this week, so feel free to submit more questions and I'll get working on them.
The first question comes from Oleg in Miami: Are you officially back? :)
HD: First, thanks to everyone who dropped such nice notes in the mailbag on the new addition to my family. The little man is doing well, and he's already sporting a new ACC hat, thanks to the kind folks in Greensboro. I will be back posting full-time on May 3. Right now I'm just trying to figure out a schedule and get caught up, so thanks for your continued patience.
Now, on to some of your other questions and comments ...
Canesman511 in Tampa writes: With the contract negotiations continuing to drag-on in Miami, what (if any) are the effects on recruiting in your opinion? Is there a "too late" point on when the contract must be signed. I.e. December....
HD: There's no question that every opposing recruiting coach out there has and will continue to use the topic against Shannon. He even admitted so himself. The more it drags on, the more of a distraction it will be. I think it needs to be done before the season opener because Shannon's opening nonconference schedule is far more difficult than any contract negotiation will be.
Gerald in Palatka, Fla., writes: Do you have any pull with the espn execs as it pertains to espn3? I wish they would post a replay of the Clemson Tiger Orange and White Spring Game. Any help you could give would be appreciated. You a great job with your blog by the way. I always enjoy reading your take on the ACC.
HD: I don't have any pull, but I do have answers. Sometimes. There was a transmission issue and the game won't be available on ESPN3.com. Sorry.
Greg in Philadelphia writes: I'm confused. Mark Herzlich was named, in the press release dated 04/15, on the Watch List for the Lott Trophy. However, he is left off the "Watchlist" portion of the website. Boston College has announced he is on the 2010 List. What gives?
HD: He's on there, no worries. I double checked with BC.
Kelly in Blacksburg added this lunchtime link on Michael Vick attending the Hokies' spring game.
Scott in Wilmington, N.C. writes: How is Duke's QB situation going to work out this year? Is Renfree going to be 100% by September? If he is, what are the chances of Duke making a bowl game this year?
HD: Sean Renfree is expected to be Duke's starter this fall, and we saw a glimpse of his talent last year when Thaddeus Lewis was out. The staff is confident in Renfree, and there's no question he has talent, but he's also inexperienced. If Duke is going to make it to a bowl game this year, though, they'll need more than just Renfree playing well.
I'll get back to the regularly scheduled Friday mailbag this week, so feel free to submit more questions and I'll get working on them.
Friedgen: Jamarr Robinson to start at QB
April, 21, 2010
Apr 21
3:02
PM ET
Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen, whose team is trying to rebound from a disappointing 2-10 season in 2009, said Wednesday that junior Jamarr Robinson will be the Terrapins' starting quarterback when they open the season against Navy in Baltimore on Sept. 6.
Robinson was the leading candidate to replace departed starter Chris Turner heading into spring practice, and Friedgen said he's done enough to solidify his position as the team's starter.
"Jamarr Robinson has had an excellent spring," Friedgen said Wednesday, during an ACC teleconference with reporters. "He's really matured, and I think he's playing at a high level. Right now, he's the starter."
The Terrapins close spring practice with Saturday's Red-White spring game at Capital One Field at Byrd Stadium in College Park, Md.
Robinson, a 6-foot, 190-pound native of Charlotte, N.C., played in seven games last season, starting two, and completed 54.1 percent of his passes for 459 yards with two touchdowns.
Friedgen is looking for more consistent quarterback play after the Terrapins finished 11th in the ACC in scoring offense (21.3 points per game) and 10th in total offense (316.4 yards per game) last season. Maryland threw only 12 touchdown passes in 2010, the third-lowest total in the league.
Friedgen said Danny O'Brien, a redshirt freshman from Kernersville, N.C., isn't far behind Robinson on the depth chart. Redshirt freshman C.J. Brown, from Cranberry Township, Pa., is No. 3.
"I think [O'Brien] is really mature for his age and is probably very advanced for this stage, when he hasn't played at all," Friedgen said. "He's not too far behind Robinson. C.J. Brown is a kid who has a lot of tools. He's very mobile and he can throw the ball. He's behind the others in terms of understanding [the offense], but I think in time he's going to be a good quarterback."
Robinson was the leading candidate to replace departed starter Chris Turner heading into spring practice, and Friedgen said he's done enough to solidify his position as the team's starter.
[+] Enlarge
Ben Solomon/Icon SMIRalp Friedgen said Jamarr Robinson will begin the season as the starting quarterback.
The Terrapins close spring practice with Saturday's Red-White spring game at Capital One Field at Byrd Stadium in College Park, Md.
Robinson, a 6-foot, 190-pound native of Charlotte, N.C., played in seven games last season, starting two, and completed 54.1 percent of his passes for 459 yards with two touchdowns.
Friedgen is looking for more consistent quarterback play after the Terrapins finished 11th in the ACC in scoring offense (21.3 points per game) and 10th in total offense (316.4 yards per game) last season. Maryland threw only 12 touchdown passes in 2010, the third-lowest total in the league.
Friedgen said Danny O'Brien, a redshirt freshman from Kernersville, N.C., isn't far behind Robinson on the depth chart. Redshirt freshman C.J. Brown, from Cranberry Township, Pa., is No. 3.
"I think [O'Brien] is really mature for his age and is probably very advanced for this stage, when he hasn't played at all," Friedgen said. "He's not too far behind Robinson. C.J. Brown is a kid who has a lot of tools. He's very mobile and he can throw the ball. He's behind the others in terms of understanding [the offense], but I think in time he's going to be a good quarterback."
Virginia Tech coach Frank Beamer likened his team’s 2010 season opener against Boise State to past openers against USC and Alabama.
During an interview with Chadd Cripe of the Idaho Statesman, Beamer said the history of a team doesn’t matter when they’re ranked in the top five.
The Labor Day opener is one of the most anticipated games on the 2010 schedule because it could put the winner on the road to a possible national championship appearance. For Virginia Tech, it’s a chance to start the season off on the right foot. The Hokies have lost their last two season openers (a 34-24 loss to Alabama in 2009 and a 27-22 decision to East Carolina in 2008). Their only other season opening loss this decade was to USC, 24-13, in 2004, the only other top school its opened against.
Both Boise State and Virginia Tech are expected to start the season ranked in the top 10.
“If you can beat a program of that caliber starting out, I think it adds confidence,” Beamer told the Statesman. “… It would be a major win for either one of us.”
During an interview with Chadd Cripe of the Idaho Statesman, Beamer said the history of a team doesn’t matter when they’re ranked in the top five.
“It’s really the same team,” Beamer told the paper. “You’re playing a top-five team starting out. … Regardless of what the history of the program (at Boise State) has been, the reality is it’s the same as playing Alabama, it’s the same as playing Southern Cal. They’ve got a lot of experience back, they’ve got a great quarterback who knows exactly what he’s doing.”
The Labor Day opener is one of the most anticipated games on the 2010 schedule because it could put the winner on the road to a possible national championship appearance. For Virginia Tech, it’s a chance to start the season off on the right foot. The Hokies have lost their last two season openers (a 34-24 loss to Alabama in 2009 and a 27-22 decision to East Carolina in 2008). Their only other season opening loss this decade was to USC, 24-13, in 2004, the only other top school its opened against.
Both Boise State and Virginia Tech are expected to start the season ranked in the top 10.
“If you can beat a program of that caliber starting out, I think it adds confidence,” Beamer told the Statesman. “… It would be a major win for either one of us.”
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Heather Dinich
Dinich covered ACC and Big Ten football for five seasons before joining ESPN.com in November 2007. She's an Indiana grad but somehow her favorite day of the week is Saturday.
