ACC College Football Preview: Who Will Ultimately Prevail in 2007?

PROJECTED ORDER OF FINISH:

ATLANTIC DIVISION:

BOSTON COLLEGE - There are some people who see BC slipping in 2007 without Tom O'Brien, who has taken his act to Raleigh. We don't feel the same as there is a lot of good football to still be played in Chestnut Hill. A stout defense and some nice weapons on offense will lead BC to the top of the Atlantic Division.
WAKE FOREST - Sadly, a lot of people are still selling Wake Forest football short despite their great season in 2006. We're not one of those people. Look for Jim Grobe to work more magic in 2007 and remain a threat in the ACC title race.

FLORIDA STATE - OK, so Bobby Bowden has re-tooled the FSU program, especially the offense, with the likes of Jimbo Fisher and Rick Trickett. Those are some nice assistants to begin the rebuilding process, but it takes time. Also hindering the process is the fact that FSU's talent level is perhaps at its lowest point in over 25 years.

MARYLAND - This hinges largely on if Ralph Friedgen can find a quarterback. For the Terps to have a nice 2007, we are afraid it's gonna have to be somebody other than Jordan Steffy. The Terps need Josh Portis to develop quickly and take control of the football. The Terps defense will definitely be the strength of the '07 squad.

CLEMSON - Tommy Bowden is hearing some murmurs about job security down in Death Valley. With the Tigers breaking in a new QB and the Tigers always finding a way to somehow underachieve at key moments, we're not so sure Tommy Bowden won't be feeling the heat by mid-season. Is this Tommy's swan song?

N.C. STATE - The Wolfpack went out and got themselves one heckuva football coach in Tom O'Brien. But sorry State fans, you won't be challenging for the ACC title for at least 2-3 years.

COASTAL DIVISION

VIRGINIA TECH - The Hokies will be playing with heavy hearts this season and once again, will field one of the best defenses in the country. Their downfall could be their offense if they cannot get better production from Sean Glennon or find a new field general altogether.