Harper, who set 22 school records and was named second-team All-ACC quarterback in 2007, received 34 votes in the balloting. His teammate, senior running back James Davis, was second, being named on 16 ballots. No other player received more than four votes.

Clemson, which was tabbed by the same media group as the pre-season choice to capture the 2008 ACC title, had four individuals on the preseason squad, as did Florida State and Wake Forest. Nine of the league’s 12 schools were represented in the 25-player group.

Seven players who earned first-team All-ACC honors in 2007 were on this year’s pre-season team – Davis and wide receiver Aaron Kelly of Clemson, tight end Ryan Purvis of Boston College, offensive tackle Andrew Gardner and defensive tackle Vance Walker of Georgia Tech, and cornerbacks Victor Harris of Virginia Tech and Alphonso Smith of Wake Forest.

2008 Preseason All-ACC Football Team

(Offense)
QB – Cullen Harper, Clemson
RB – Josh Adams, Wake Forest
RB – James Davis, Clemson
WR – Aaron Kelly, Clemson
WR – Hakeem Nicks, North Carolina
TE – Ryan Purvis, Boston College
T – Andrew Gardner, Georgia Tech
T – Eugene Monroe, Virginia
G – Rodney Hudson, Florida State
G – Sergio Render, Virginia Tech
C – Edwin Williams, Maryland

(Defense)
DE – Everette Brown, Florida State
DE – Michael Johnson, Georgia Tech
DT – Ron Brace, Boston College
DT – Vance Walker, Georgia Tech
LB – Aaron Curry, Wake Forest
LB – Clint Sintim, Virginia
LB – Brian Toal, Boston College
CB – Victor Harris, Virginia Tech
CB – Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest
S – Michael Hamlin, Clemson
S – Myron Rolle, Florida State

(Specialists)
PK – Sam Swank, Wake Forest
P – Graham Gano, Florida State
RET – Brandon Tate, North Carolina

PRESEASON VOTING TOTALS

PLAYER OF THE YEAR (64)

Cullen Harper – 34
James Davis – 16
C.J. Spiller – 4
Josh Adams - 2
Sean Glennon – 2
Riley Skinner - 2
Drew Weatherford – 2
Aaron Curry – 1
Victor Harris - 1

Part three of who knows how many parts continues with some players who need to step up and have an impact for their team this upcoming season. Some of them, we know something about, and others have stood on the sidelines in prior seasons and we're going to figure them out this season.

Offensive player with the biggest shoes to fill: Chris Crane, Boston College. This shouldn't have been a shocker. He's replacing one of the best quarterbacks BC has had since the days of Doug Flutie. Crane, a senior, last started a game in 2006, and hasn't seen much action in his career. His 2007 stats: 2-4, 28 yards, zero touchdowns. It doesn't help either that the leading returning rusher from last year's team ran for a whopping 14 yards. Crane probably won't put up numbers comparable to Ryan, but if he can just not throw the ball to the other team, he should be fine.

Defensive player with the biggest shoes to fill: Anyone on Virginia's defensive line. It's not easy to lose two players who combined for over 20 sacks and wreak havoc the way Chris Long and Jeffrey Fitzgerald did. But with Long play professionally now, and Fitzgerald not being up to par with his academics, it creates a big hole on the defensive line. In fact, the leading returner in sacks is Nate Collins with two. The line will be helped by having one of the best linebacking corps in the nation. I think we'll see a lot of blitzing by the linebackers this season to help the defensive line get pressure on the quarterback this season.

Player most likely to have a breakout season: Jonathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech. Dwyer showed a lot of potential in his freshman campaign, rushing for 436 yards and nine touchdowns, while averaging 5.3 yards per carry. Dwyer will be one of the feature running backs with this new flexbone spread offense put in by new coach Paul Johnson. And with this offense expected to run a lot, Dwyer could easily top 1000 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns this season. At 6-0 and 228 pounds, he's small enough to hide behind the line, but big enough to dish out some pain to the defense if they should get in his way.

Offensive player with the most pressure: Cullen Harper, Clemson. He should know by now the expectations being saddled by his Tigers in this upcoming season. They're projected to be a top 10 team by some publications, and most of them have Clemson winning the ACC. He was the best quarterback not named Matt Ryan last season. Harper completed 65 percent of his passes for just under 3,000 yards, with 29 touchdowns and just six interceptions. And he's now a year wiser and more mature. And he has his go to guys back in James Davis and C.J. Spiller, along with Aaron Kelly at receiver. But that was then. He may need to put up similar numbers this season to make sure Clemson gets all of the accolades bestowed upon them this season.

Defensive player with the most pressure: Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest. This guy might be one of the best defensive players in the nation. Smith had eight interceptions last season (a school record), and returned three of them four touchdowns. This guy is the true definition of the term, "shutdown corner." And Wake returns nine starters on defense. But with all of this comes high expectations. Wake is expected to contend for the ACC title, and possibly return to the Orange Bowl for the second time in three years. Tell me the last time Wake had these kind of expectations. Maybe never. Smith leads this defense, and it'll be up to him to make sure the expectations don't get to everyone's heads.

Next week, I finally reveal my standings, which after reading both Patrick's and The Quasi-Evil Q's standings, mine will be different from theirs. And I expect to be called some names that aren't exactly kind by any stretch of the imagination. The same kind of names my fiancée uses for me on an everyday basis. Anyways, stay tuned to accnation.com.

The media at this week's ACC Football Kickoff in Greensboro, Ga., voted Clemson as the preseason favorite to capture not only the Atlantic Division title in the ACC, but the championship. Clemson received 59 first-place votes, while Virginia Tech grabbed 58 first-place votes as the favorite in the Coastal Division. Clemson was also voted as the ACC Championship Game winner by 51 of the 65 media members who voted.

"It definitely puts a bulls eye on you," Clemson coach Tommy Bowden said of the media voting. "It's going to elevate (Clemson's first opponent) Alabama's level of play and probably our conference opponents. That's something that every team has to learn to deal with. My father usually answers that question. He's usually in this position. So it's kind of unchartered waters, not so much for Clemson as it is for us."

Speaking of Tommy Bowden's father, Bobby Bowden and his Florida State Seminoles were picked third in the Atlantic Division, the first time since division play began in 2005 that FSU wasn't picked first. In fact, before 2005, FSU was picked by the media to win the ACC for 13 seasons in a row. The past two years, FSU was picked to win it's division, but not selected to win the ACC Championship Game. The Seminoles did get one first-place vote.

Bobby Bowden's advice to his son on being the target: "He better watch out."

Wake Forest received the rest of the first-place votes in the Atlantic, getting five and finishing second behind Clemson. BC was fourth, Maryland fifth and N.C. State finished sixth.

Over in the Coastal, Virginia Tech was the favorite for the second straight year and the third year out of the last four since the Hokies entered the ACC.

North Carolina was second with four first-place votes, while Miami finished third, Georgia Tech fourth and Virginia fifth. The Hurricanes, Yellow Jackets and Cavaliers all received one first-place vote. Duke finished sixth in voting.

Atlantic Division

1. Clemson (59 first-place votes), 383 points

2. Wake Forest (5), 304

3. Florida State (1), 265

4. Boston College, 154

5. Maryland, 147

6. N.C. State, 112

Coastal Division

1. Virginia Tech (58), 383

2. North Carolina (4), 288

3. Miami (1), 253

4. Georgia Tech (1), 195

5. Virginia (1), 161

6. Duke, 85

(IknowUknow this article is a little late but I have been meaning to put it up.....here we goooo)

What could have been?  After witnessing the collapse of the Lakers, or domination of the Celtics (however you look at it), I started to think what could have been for the city of Boston.  Not only did they win the NBA Championship, but they also won last years MLB World Series.  That's 2 major sports titles in one year....But there's more...Boston almost completed doing something that has never been done in sports before; by winning a 3rd national sports title in one year.  Just last February the Patriots were trying to complete a perfect season by winning the Super Bowl (only to be beaten by Boston's main rivals, NEW YORK). The Patriots had a chance to not only make football history, but City Championship history (lol i know that sounds funny)......AND if you travel back even further, Boston College was at one time ranked number 1 in NCAA football. NCAA football is almost a religion in the USA, and this title would have meant a lot to the city.  By the way, I am not a Boston fan in any way (I do root for RANDY MOSS though), but I would have been happy to see something like this happen.  My generation almost had a chance to see sports history made, but then again I think about what could have been.  WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Now that I've had a few days to immerse myself in pigskin frivolity at the ACC football kickoff it's time for me to take a stab at my preseason picks.

Let me say that I haven't gone through the spin of the coaches or sports information directors. What I have done is talk with my fellow journalists (those insider tidbits are gems) and I've watched and listened to the players. More often than not their comments tell you more about a program than their coach can or will.

Let's start with the Atlantic Division.

The past has made many fans and especially sportswriters nervous about selecting Clemson as the top dog. Can you blame any of them? The Tigers certainly haven't done much to deserve our faith over the past few years.

Again it is all about the players.Theirs is a quiet calm air of confidence and it speaks volumes. Clemson is a team that is loaded to the gills with monumental talent. The Tigers have offensive weaponry that rivals U. S. Special Forces.
Look for Clemson to take the Atlantic Division, but not without some pressure from Florida State and Wake Forest.

Here are my picks for the ACC Atlantic Divison.
Clemson
Florida State
Wake Forest
Maryland
North Carolina State
Boston College

A quick run down of the teams.

Florida State - The Jimbo Fisher era begins (as far as I'm concerned he is now the head coach). There is a new mindset in Tallahassee. They are no longer the cocky "everyone else has to beat us" group they once were. This has allowed the 'Noles to start taking one game at a time and approach each matchup with something to prove. This makes for a dangerous team, perhaps one with a chip on their shoulder.

Wake Forest - Jim Grobe as Father Knows Best. Grobe's approach to coaching includes life skills and self pride. It is helping build a winning program. The superb application of redshirting players is paying off. The hardest thing that the Demon Deacons will deal with is recruitment. The percentages are just not with them. It is tough to compete with the much larger schools found in the conference.

Maryland -"The Fridge" has handed over the offensive game and is beginning to have some excellent recruiting success. This is a team that can and will sneak up on you. I don't see it being consistent enough to go much furter this year but things should come together in '09 and '10. A smaller, but quicker team will give opponents fits as will a new defensive look.

North Carolina State - Tom O'Brien continues to settle in. New coaches, new plays and the transition to a solid program progresses. Is the stew ready for consumption? Not quite yet. O'Brien and company must begin the re-building process which includes recruits that buy into his way of doing things.

Boston College - "Jags" (almost sounds like a TV show) is a sharp guy. Don't forget though that he needs to build "his program" so the loss column may be heavier for a season or two. Fans are beginning to show "the love" to the Eagles.

The one thing that Doc Walker points out on this week's podcast is this division's parity. No truer words have been spoken. From top to bottom this is the strong side of the ACC this season.
Now a look at the not-so-strong side - the Coastal Division.

I wasn't completely sold on Virginia Tech taking the division this year. After all they've lost mucho (but not Macho) talent.

The Hokies have two diamonds that often outweigh other factors. Frank Beamer and Bud Foster. Let's not forget that even though VT has lost a lot of their portfolio there were numerous stars in the making sitting on the sideline. You'll be introduced to them this season as they walk away from opponents they've left their mark on.

Here are my picks for the Coastal Division.
Virginia Tech
North Carolina
Georgia Tech
Virginia
Duke
Miami

A quick run-down of the teams.

North Carolina - Butch Davis has started something that fans love - winning. He is definitely in the process of rebuilding. The coaches and players are connecting and that is a plus. There is more confidence among both groups now that they realize that Tar Heels can have a winning tradition. Look for a strong comeback on the QB side as the season progresses.

Georgia Tech - Paul Johnson is somewhat miffed over all we numbskulls continually asking about his "new offense". Okay, so I admit we are a slow lot. The Ramblin Wreck is getting ready to take over the Atlanta Journal-Constitution sports pages. Anything beats another 'Dawgs story. Oh, let's not forget a new look on defense as well. Watch out Georgia.

Virginia - Al Groh was dealt a nice hand at the end of last year and then suddenly found himself playing Old Maid instead of Five Stud Poker. Groh is Dr. Frankenstein and is building a brand new monster. It may be like the one in the movie, a bit weak minded but with plenty of good intentions.

Duke - Coach Cutcliffe has done something unheard of in the history of Duke. He has Carolina fans rooting for his success(they won't openly admit it). The school, alumni and fans want a winning program and apparently they are on a fast-track to that goal. Can it be done over-night? The answer is no but three to four wins is very likely and that beats what they've had in the past.

Miami - Randy Shannon is in an unenviable position. A top-rated football program that has fallen from grace is now in his hands and he must rebuild quickly. Okay fans hear this: he inherited a wreck. He needs to untangle the twisted mess with the jaws of life. Tweaked O, D and lots of young guys are great steps. It will be another year or two before the Phoenix rises.

That's how I see the ACC unfolding and, quite honestly, I'm ready for kickoff already. That means I'm looking for my first invite to a tailgate party.

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[audio http://media.libsyn.com/media/accnation/accnationjuly21.mp3]

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Doc Walker, an analyst for ACC football games on Raycom, joins Patrick and Q in Greensboro, Ga., site of this year's ACC Football Kickoff, to talk some, you guessed it, ACC football. Doc gave his thoughts on where the ACC Football Championship should be held, why James Franklin will be good for Maryland's offense this year, the Bowden boys, why he likes parity in the ACC and much more.

Also on the show,

-- Jeff Adams and Rob Higgins of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission drop by to talk about their city hosting the ACC Football Championship;

-- Patrick and Q give their predictions on the final standings in ACC football;

-- Is it the Ritz-Carlton or the Carlton-Ritz?;

-- Fried mac and cheese;

And much more on this week's podcast.

ACC Nation will begin its in-depth (or at least as in-depth as we get) football previewsthe week of July 28. For the four weeks beginning on July 28, we'll have three podcasts per week instead of just one. Each podcast will focus one one team. We'll also have a preview and a feature story on each team on ACCNation.com.

We'll also have lots of good stuff next week from the ACC Football Kickoff at Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, Ga.

As for this week, not to be outdone by Will, I'd thought I'd give you my preseason predictions on how I see teams finishing this season. I'll give a brief reason why I think each team will finish where I have them, and in parentheses you'll see the date that we'll post both the podcast and website preview for each team.

I've gone out on a limb on some of these, but what's the fun in making predictions if you can't go out on a limb now and again? I'm sure I'll hear from some of you (especially Miami fans), so let me have it (and, when calling me names, be creative).

Coastal

1. Virginia Tech (Aug. 14)-- 11-1, 7-1. I'm sure the Hokies could stumble at several places (ECU, at UNC, at Nebraska come to mind) on the schedule, but I see them losing only at FSU. Something tells me Frank Beamer and Bud Foster will surprise people with this VT team. I just believe Tech is one of those teams that can replace big-time players with big-time players.

2. Virginia (Aug. 13)- 7-5, 5-3 -- I like the skill positions, especially running back. If the line can block and UVa. gets anything from the defense, I think the Cavaliers can manage this schedule. I love the linebackers and I like the secondary. The defensive line situation worries me, but not enough to think it will cause major problems.

3. North Carolina (Aug. 12) -- 6-6, 4-4 -- Can the young players deal with all the preseason hype? I'm not sure, plus I'm not sold that Greg Little is the answer at running back. He'll have to show me more than just two games at the end of the year. The linebackers are young and T.J. Yates missed the spring. Better, but not as good as most everyone is predicting.

4. Georgia Tech (July 30)-- 4-8, 2-6 -- Paul Johnson will get the job done, but it's a little too early to expect much this season. The offense has to learn a completely new system. The defense will also be learning, but I think you'll see a more consistent unit with Dave Wommack replacing Jon Tenuta. Josh Nesbitt will carry a lot of responsibility and the faster he learns the better the Jackets will play.

5. Duke (July 29)-- 4-8, 2-6 -- I really like the hiring of David Cutcliffe, but don't expect too much in his first season. That being said, I love Thaddeus Lewis and his receivers, including Eron Riley, and if the line can give them any time, the Blue Devils will score points this year. The defense will be better, especially up front. Count on it: Duke will win a conference game this year (I'm actually predicting two).

6. Miami (July 31) -- 3-9, 1-7 -- I worry about a team that can lose 48-0 in its last game ever at the Orange Bowl and a coaching staff that lets that happen. This team is young, there is no experience at quarterback and the Hurricanes have a brutal schedule. I know predicting Miami to finish behind Duke seems crazy, but call it a gut feeling.

Atlantic

1. Wake Forest (Aug. 21)-- 11-1, 7-1 -- This is the fastest, and may very well be the best, defense in the ACC. Wake will continue to force turnovers and put its offense in great position this season. You won't see Riley Skinner throwing as much, with the offense relying on Josh Adams and the ground game. The O-line has some question marks. The schedule shapes up nicely with an early trip to Tallahassee before FSU has all of its players back from suspension and a Thursday night home game against Clemson.

2. Clemson (Aug. 6)-- 10-2, 6-2 -- There's not a better set of skill players in the conference, although the offensive line has some holes. So does the defense, especially at linebacker. Clemson seems to be everyone's pick to win the ACC and I think they have a shot, but look for the Tigers to stumble against some team that shouldn't beat them (at UVa.?). Look, I like Clemson, just not as much as I like Wake.

3. Maryland (Aug. 19)-- 9-3, 5-3 -- This is my surprise team. I do wonder who will be the quarterback, but if the Terps can settle on one guy things will be just fine in College Park. Even with losses at running back, the Terps have talent, and the receivers are among the best in the conference. The defense could be a problem, although linebacker looks like a strength for Maryland.

4. Florida State (Aug. 7)-- 6-6, 4-4 -- A tough schedule and questions at quarterback worry me when it comes to FSU. The offensive line will also be a headache all season. The linebackers will be solid, but the Seminoles could struggle up front and in the secondary (again) on defense. If FSU stays healthy and proves it can score points, maybe things improve over recent years, but I don't see it.

5. North Carolina State (Aug. 20)- 6-6, 4-4 -- Like FSU and Maryland in this division, NC State needs to settle on a quarterback. If healthy (a big if) the running backs are very talented and may be the best part of this offense. I like the defensive line, but the rest of the defense could be a problem. Next year this team could contend for a division title, but not this season with Wake and Clemson leading the way.

6. Boston College (Aug. 5)-- 5-7, 1-7 -- Josh Haden will be very good at BC, but I'm not sure that will be the case this season for the true freshman. If Chris Crane is solid, he will have some weapons at receiver, but the offensive line is a concern again. And I don't think Crane will win games late like Matt Ryan did last year. The defense is good enough, but has some questions, especially in the secondary. Last year was magical for the Eagles. This year, not so much.

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Phil Steele, who publishes and writes one of the most-respect college football preview magazines on the market, joins ACC Nation this week to talk ACC football. Visit Phil's website for more information and to order the magazine.

We discuss all 12 ACC schools and Phil gives us his predictions on which two teams will meet in Tampa for the ACC Football Championship in December. We also ask Phil his thoughts on what the conference needs to do to gain more respect nationally.

**The ACC has won each of the nine ACC-Big Ten Challenges played to date.

**ACC teams have won 56 of the 86 games played in the Challenge.

**Duke (9-0) and Boston College (2-0) are the only undefeated teams in Challenge play.

10th Annual ACC/Big Ten Challenge Schedule

All Times Eastern

Mon., Dec. 1

7 p.m. ESPN2 Wisconsin at Virginia Tech

Tue., Dec. 2

7 p.m. ESPN Ohio State at Miami

7 p.m. ESPNU Iowa at Boston College

7:30 ESPN2 Clemson at Illinois

9 p.m. ESPN Duke at Purdue

9:30 ESPN2 Virginia at Minnesota

Wed., Dec. 3

7:15 ESPN Indiana at Wake Forest

7:30 ESPN2 Penn State at Georgia Tech

7:30 ESPNU Michigan at Maryland

9:15 ESPN North Carolina vs. Michigan State (from Ford Field)

9:30 ESPN2 Florida State at Northwestern

Click below to listen:

[audio http://media.libsyn.com/media/accnation/accnationjuly14.mp3]

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David Glenn of the ACC Area Sports Journal joins the guys to discuss football and the changes to his magazine. As for football, Glenn is on the Clemson bandwagon, but he's stepping lightly, while the magazine will be featuring a few new contributors, including Jay Bilas and John Feinstein.

Also,

-- Billy Packer is finished with broadcasting;

-- Patrick begs for free stuff from the listeners;

-- Has ACC expansion been a success in the first five years?;

-- Did Patrick gush too much over David Glenn?

-- We still want listeners to sign up and beat the bloggers, so if you think you can pick football games better than guys from Eagle in Atlanta, the Good Ol' Blog, the Old Gold and Blog, D.C. Sports Bog and more, e-mail us at patrick@accnation.com or accnation@gmail.com.

Your ACC Preview - Coastal Division

by Walker Sports

Welcome back to part two of Walker-Sports ACC preview. In this section we will take a look at the Coastal Division. Of the two divisions the Coatal is without a doubt the tightest, and will prove to be the most competitive. It could also make for some interesting results come November once all these teams have tangled and a couple upsets go down.

Virginia Tech Hokies: The Hokies have been a terror to the ACC since the day they arrived in the league. They have played in 3 out of 4 ACC Championships. There is no doubt the ACC made the right move bringing these guys in. This year the Hokies are likely the only legitimate threat to the Clemson Tigers if the two can meet in the ACC Championship game. However, this year will take a little more effort than Beamer and company are used to. The Hokies lost several key players on both sides of the ball including star running back Brandon Ore and linebackers Xavier Adibi. The Hokies will also continue their battle at quarterback that began last season between Sean Glennon and Tyrod Taylor. Lucky for the Hokies they have the best of both worlds with these guys, Glennon being a scrambler and Taylor a drop back passer.

No matter who is at the helm at QB you can bank that Virginia Tech will play solid defense and great special teams. That will make them a top contender in the ACC and a possible factor in the BCS.

Record: 10-2

Key Games: East Carolina, Nebraska, Florida State

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: Change was the theme of the off-season for the Yellow Jackets. Paul Johnson's option offense scared off a couple players, but they will be stronger because of it. Josh Nesbitt will be charged with running the offensive this season, and he has the tools to make it happen, if he stays healthy, a groin injury has sidelined him for much of the spring.

What the Rambling Wreck will do very well this year, is attack opposing offenses. The Yellow Jackets have one of the top ends and one of the top tackles in the league, Michael Johnson and Vance Walker will test any offensive line. The D-Line alone will keep the Yellow Jackets in most any game they play this season.

Record: 7-5

Key Games: Florida State, Mississippi State, Georgia

Miami Hurricanes: Don't go crazy with this one, the ‘Canes fell into this spot by accident, not because they have done anything special. Miami will be pretty much all freshmen or first year players. Lucky for them their freshmen tend to be better than an average teams seniors.

The Hurricanes are moving in the right direction, and they appear to be doing it the right way. That meant getting rid of a lot of players and coaches. That will lead to disappointment in the short term, but if the Alumni can hang in there and just trust in their coach, they will find themselves back on track, especially with this talented group of freshmen.

Record: 7-5

Key Games: UCF, Virginia, Texas A&M

Virginia Cavaliers: Al Groh must go, was the chant heard round Charlottesville after an embarrassing opening lost on the road to Wyoming. However, a 9-4 campaign seemed to make many Cavalier fans forget Groh's shortcomings and he even received a contract extension. However, after a meltdown in the Gator Bowl and an embarrassing off season that saw seven players kicked out of school perhaps Groh's job should still be on the line.

Despite all the setbacks the Cavaliers are looking to employ a more wide open attack and actually toss the ball down field some this year, Combine a revamped passing game with the return of Cedric Peermen and Mikell Simpson at running back and the Cav's could have a decent offense, but don't hold your breath.

Seven wins this season would be a phenomenal achievement. (Your Gridiron Goddess says: ESPECIALLY since they open their season against USC.)

Record 6-6

Key Games: Miami, East Carolina, Clemson, USC

North Carolina Tar Heels: Butch Davis is entering his second year as head coach in Chapel Hill, and while that does mean something, Davis alone is not enough to put the Tar Heels back on the winning track. The Heels will be much better than their 4-8 mark of their last year, however due to a tough schedule; the improvement may not be seen in the win column. Out of conference games against Rutgers, Notre Dame and UConn can mean trouble for the Heels.

The bulk of their success will depend on how their backfield gels together. Greg Little is the sophomore who moved to tailback from receiver late last year and he will carry the load this season. T.J. Yates is supposed to be the starter at QB comes August, but he has not thrown much at all since shoulder surgery in December. If he is unable to go the Tar Heels will depend on backups Paulus and Sexton to step up and run the offense.

Record: 5-7

Key Games: UConn, Boston College, North Carolina State

Duke Blue Devils: I won't lie this is just hard to do because, I don't want to be too tongue and cheek, and Walker-Sports is not about sugar coat anything, so sorry Blue Devil fans. David Cuttcliffe has challenged his team to improve their fitness, and their team speed. To this point the team has responded well. However, Duke simply does not have the athletes to compete at the high levels of the ACC. Nonetheless, the Blue Devils will be an improved team.
Record: 2-10

Key Games, James Madison, Northwestern

ACC Championship Game: Clemson vs. Virginia Tech

Clemson wins ACC Title and Tommy Bowden goes to the Orange Bowl where the ACC can hopefully regain some respect on the national level.

That's it for me, hope you enjoyed the preview feel free to drop a line with your comments. This is going to be a special year in college football, there's a lot of variables out there, and a lot of new faces on the scene so buckle up and get ready for what will be a hellUVA a ride.

[Your Gridiron Goddess says: S-O-U-T-H-ERN C-A-L-I-FORNIA SOUTHERN CALIFORRRRRRRNIA. AUGUST 30TH BABY!]

From our own B.C. guy:

"This is what the falcons are doing to getting people to buy season tickets. I have never seen pro athletes look so awkard and uncomfortable in my life. This is not funny, its dumb marketing. I am just mad they are making my matt ryan do this kind of shit. He should have gone to b'more."

You heard it, Matt Ryan should have gone to Baltimore.

I graduated from Boston College in 1997 with a BA in Communication. I'm proud of my institution's academic and athletic past and even more excited about its future growth prospects over the next 25 years.

So when I read lately about the city of Boston's not so coordinated effort to stonewall BC, I get pretty wound up. It's just getting heated so look for more commentary in this blog. With Mayor Menino flip-flopping, declining comment in certain situations (probably doesn't have his message in line with the Boston Redevelopment Authority), and the Brighton "activists" letting emotion rule the day, it's going to be a fun couple of years.

To fill you in, here are a few articles from the past couple of weeks illustrating just how insane it's getting.

(Boston Globe) City wants BC to pay more for dorm plan

(Boston Globe) Mayor calls BC's $1B expansion an intrusion

(Boston Globe) Newton eyes payments from expanding Boston College

(Boston Magazine) Over His Dead Body

I wrote a letter to the Globe today and cc'd the mayor's office, Sec of State Galvin (one of the Brighton activists), and BC's VP of Public Affairs, Jack Dunn. I pasted it below. I plan to post any response I recevie in future posts as well

The War Against Boston College is now fully underway.

First we have Mayor Menino instructing BC should only house its student body on the Chestnut Hill Campus, despite the obvious fact there’s zero free space remaining. What doesn’t he understand about that? However, it’s ironic that he’s willing to compromise by bribing BC to pay more than its fair share in property tax for the 2000 Commonwealth Ave building.

While the Mayor stonewalls BC’s meritorious goals in becoming a top 10 educational institution, the Brighton neighborhood (along with Sec of State Galvin) claims that “BC is being disingenuous” by planning student dorms on its newly acquired Brighton Campus. Cleary, this group would like to see nothing more than BC return to its working-class commuter school roots.

Now, Newton Mayor Cohen has joined the fray by attempting to siphon more property tax and in kind donations from this tax-exempt institution. Huh, Mayor?

If BC can’t identify solutions to house its students in a Commonwealth Ave apartment building (which historically is full of BC students anyway) or in its Brighton Campus (which it owns), what does Mayor Menino and the local “activists” have in mind? Sadly, they’ve demonstrated time and time again, they have NO solutions just obstructions.

Regards,

Rich Young

BC ‘97

]]> http://gridirongoddess.wordpress.com/?p=410 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 03:31:58 +0000 thegridirongoddess http://gridirongoddess.wordpress.com/?p=410 Your Gridiron Goddess is happy to welcome Walker Sports to GridironGoddess.net with the ACC Preview for the Atlantic Division. He'll be back on Saturday with the ACC Coastal Division preview. Enjoy!

Your ACC Preview - Atlantic Division

by Walker Sports

College football season is just over 50 days away, and I cannot wait. While traditionally Saturday is a Rugby day in Walker-Sports land, even rugby takes a back seat to college football. Walker-Sports originates in ACC territory and lives and breathes ACC football, yes the conference is now 10 years removed from their glory days, but better days are coming, and as out of conference scheduling picks up for many schools the ACC will soon be flexing their muscles for all the NCAA to see once again.

So saddle up, make yourself a pull pork sandwich, pour yourself a shot of Southern Comfort (or a glass of Merlot if you're at a UVA game) and get ready to watch to some ACC football the way it was meant to be. Tough and gritty with a wide open race to the finish.

ACC Preseason Preview Atlantic Division

Clemson Tigers: There is no doubt that the Clemson Tigers are the cream of the crop when it comes to ACC football, they may even be among the elites in the NCAA. However, there is one small problem. They are the Clemson Tigers, their coach is Tommy Bowden and we have all heard this story before and it always has the same sad ending. The Tigers are stacked with talent Cullen Harper at QB is a stud who completes a high percentage of his passes. At tailback Clemson has arguably the best two tailbacks in the ACC with James Davis and C.J. Spiller. On the defensive side Clemson is returning eight starters and will look to use their speed to apply pressure to opposing teams and knock them off their game plan early.

The biggest problem Clemson will face will be keeping focus and finishing what they started. Too often Bowden's crew has been the most talented team in the ACC, but not the most disciplined team and the result is another, 8-4 season; great if you're Duke, but a waste if you were thinking BCS in the preseason. Let's hope they don't do the same this year.

Record: 10-1

Key Games: Alabama, Florida State,

Florida State Seminoles: Okay, so this was a tough one, and I'll be the first to admit that the ‘Noles got the nod because of who they are and prior reputation, but nonetheless they made it into the second spot. Drew Weatherford has been in college since about 1990 it feels like. By now he has to be the most experienced QB in the NCAA, and that will be a big help. Weatherford was aided by the addition of Jimbo fisher as an offensive coordinator last year, and he will look to build on that previous success.

The biggest asset for Florida State is a weak schedule. They open with four consecutive home games. Matter of fact the ‘Noles won't leave the state of Florida till mid October. This means Florida State has a good chance to rack up some quality wins at home and that could go a long way in an average ACC conference.

Record: 8-4

Key Games: Colorado, Virginia Tech, Clemson,

Wake forest Demon Deacons: Wake is in the middle of their greatest run in school history. While the coffers don't have the talent they once had two seasons ago, they still have enough to get the job done. That means they will be .500 at the very least and with a little bit of luck they can jump into the second spot in the Atlantic Division. The bulk of their success will depend on if they can move the all on offense. Last year the Demon Deacons were routinely out gained and it cost them.

Record: 7-5

Key Games: Clemson, Virginia, Boston College

Maryland Terrapins: The Terps have struggled the past few seasons. The bulk of their problems have resulted from inconsistency at the quarterback position. Despite the instability the Terps are a tough out especially for ACC opponents. Ralph Friedgen seems to get his teams to play just well enough to keep his job. That means the Terps will be playing spoiler to a couple of ACC opponents. I would like to say that dropping WVU from the schedule would help Maryland this season, but adding Cal is no cakewalk. Look for the Terps to upset some ACC's teams bid for a title, just hope it's not yours.

Record 6-6

Key Games: Cal, Boston College, Wake forest

Boston College Eagles: The honeymoon is over for Coach Jagodzinski and company. Last year Jags was a first year coach and he feasted on the fruits of Tom O'Brian's labor, mainly his grooming of QB Matt Ryan. Now Ryan along with a load of other talent is gone, and the Eagles are ready to return to earth. BC is only returning 10 starters meaning they will be very inexperienced and that leads to mistakes and close loses. As usual BC will be solid on both lines, but they just won't have enough fire power to be in the mix. This will be one Boston team that does not bring home a championship.

Record 5-7

Key Games: UCF, North Carolina, Wake forest

North Carolina State Wolfpack: Tom O'Brian is a hell of a coach, and he will be put to the test with this NC State team. They lost 10 starters from a 5-7 team, and they only have freshmen to replace them. Combine that with a brutal non-conference schedule and you can bet the Pack will slide before they are ready to climb again. But hang in there NC State supporters, this year may be rough but positive results will be coming down the pike very soon.

Record: 3-9

Key Games: Wake forest, East Carolina

This was still is the girl I love.

It has been two months since we broke up and it still really hurts. After our relationship, she moved quickly onto another guy, while I am still waiting for something that probably won't come back. I could of seen this coming from a mile away, but I chose to ignore those signs. Separated by 200 miles with our only connection found through facebook messages and phone calls, I cannot, and will not, blame her for ending it. But that doesn't make me feel any better. I don't know where I am or where I am headed. She was there for three years of my life, two as my girlfriend. It really hurts me to see her in pictures with another guy having a great time because that was once me. I did mess up alot and wish I could change things, but I can't. Granted I still hold out hope for something, but I cannot keep on dwelling on the past.

Yet this feels so different. I really had thoughts about marrying this girl. Call me naive or old fashioned, but I really felt something different between us. She says it is a transitional period where she wants to try things out, however I am deathly afraid that she will never come back. I had all things planned out, sorta, but I really don't know. I really do love this girl with everything. Now I stand as the boyfriend turned "friend" and I hate it. I still love doing things with her, but the only thing on my mind is "what if?"

Eventually time heals all wounds, but this seems like a gash that can never stop bleeding. I'm still going through changes and with the help of my friends, its getting better. But this is really killing me inside. I need to get out of here, I need to get back to school. I need something.

Janne Pesonen is officially under contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The Finnish winger signed a one-year contract today. Ray Shero had this to say about Pesonen (Penguins.com):

“Pesonen is a quick, skilled player that has had much success in the Finnish Elite League,” said Shero. “We look forward to watching him perform at his first NHL training camp.”

The contract is a two-way contract, allowing him to be sent between Pittsburgh and its AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre, PA.

Since the initial announcement of him becoming a Penguin, I have had more time to research him. What I've read noted his exceptional speed and hands. Given that plus his size, 5-11 and 180 pounds, Pesonen reminds me alot of former Penguin Martin Straka.

If Pesonen gets the chance at some point next year to skate with Evgeni Malkin or Sidney Crosby his point total could surprise many around the NHL. However, I'm not sure if he'll get that chance. As (Insider on Pittsburgh Sports) noted, contract talks seem to be getting more serious between the Penguins and Jordan Staal. Also, there is talk of Staal moving back to the left-wing.

The Penguins have also had internal discussions about using Jordan Staal as a winger on the top 2 lines when the season begins.

Staal scored 29 goals from the left wing in his rookie season. If he moves back to that position, Pesonen's chances at playing with either Malkin or Crosby are little to none. Nevertheless, his stats indicate that he is playing the best hockey of his career and this is his time for a shot in the NHL.

Furthermore, I'd love to see Staal back on the left wing. If his numbers show a significant improvement in the first month or so of the season next year, then it was worth it. But I'm getting ahead of myself.

PENS SIGN BEN LOVEJOY

Shero also inked defensman Ben Lovejoy to a one-year entry-level contract (Penguins.com). Lovejoy (6-2, 210 pounds) led Wilkes-Barre in plus/minus with a plus-16. He appeared in 72 games during the regular season and recorded 20 points (2 G, 18 A).

Lovejoy also appeared in all 23 of the Baby Pens' Calder Cup Playoff games. He totaled 10 points (2 G, 8 A).

The year before joining the Baby Pens, Lovejoy played for the Norfolk Admirals. He saw time in five games and went pointless while recording six penalty minutes.

Lovejoy attended and played college hockey for three years at Dartmouth and one final year at Boston College (WBS). He recorded 54 points in in 96 games (11 G, 43 A). In one year at BC, Lovejoy played in 22 games and recorded six assists.

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Mike Stevens of WDBJ TV 7 in Roanoke, Va., joins the guys to talk about Virginia Tech football as well as his last few days as sports director at the television station before he leaves for greener pastures. Mike also has a great story about Paula Deen and her undergarments.

Also this week:

-- Patrick and Q go over their picks for the male and female athletes of the year in the ACC;

-- N.C. State's Farnold Degand and UNC's Bobby Frasor are ready to return to action;

-- Patrick cleans out the basement;

-- Should college sporting venues sell alcoholic beverages?;

-- The guys lay out the podcast schedule for the next few weeks as ACC Nation gets ready for football;

And more.

I am so excited for the exchange of dialogue and ideas, to be immersed in faith issues, to go to mass everyday, to not have to fly somewhere, to meet new people. I am also thrilled to be getting a real hands on feel for whether or not I want to get a dual degree in Pastoral Ministry and Social Work. Yes, that is right. I am considering going to graduate school for the third time....and actually hoping to get a masters this time around! I have 12 graduate credits in Education and 18 in Library Science. Since deciding not to continue with library science I haven't given school much thought. One month ago I quite accidentally stumbled upon the IREPM website at Boston College. As I read program descriptions and looked at course offerings I could feel butterflies in my stomach. I set up an appointment with an adviser and spent about 30 minutes telling her about me - in terms of my career and my faith. She told me that she thought that the MA/MSW Dual Degree program was perfect for me. She said I could get a Master's in Pastoral Ministry with a concentration in Spirituality and Justice along with a Master's in Social Work with a concentration in Global Practice. At that moment I felt I knew why I had ended up in Boston. She also encouraged me to take summer classes to get a feel for the community and the offerings. (She mistakenly told me Gustavo Gutierrez would be teaching classes the week I could take vacation....but alas he is coming the following week. It is truly heart breaking so I may just have to get "sick" at work and sneak into one of his classes). I may as well do some research before I venture into yet another graduate program....I mean the third time is a charm and all but it never hurts to proceed with a little caution (something foreign to my modus operandi). I'll see how classes go and continue praying to discern if my mission includes more formal education.

If I do go back to school I can't imagine another program/place that would be better suited for me. Here is a brief description of what's got me so excited: "The program reflects the University's mission to educate individuals who are committed to the pursuit of social justice. A specific goal is to develop the skills and credentials necessary to plan, administer, and/or provide social services within a local church or church-related agency." Individuals committed to social justice? That's me, that's me! Social services within a faith based agency? That is exactly what I want to do with my life! I can just see myself doing international aid work for a Catholic organization (hopefully in Brasil or Nicaragua).

I started to contemplate all of this at a time when I could barely stand up at work I was so overwhelmed by all of my responsibilities and duties. I know that part of my initial eagerness was related to a "grass is greener" type of phenomenon. But as I stepped back from my enthusiasm I realized I don't want to live for the next big thing that will make me happy - whether that is a man, a new city/state, or a degree (which despite many attempts have not panned out). I am determined to live in this present moment and revel in the joy of right now. My staycation is an opportunity to make the most of this moment - regardless of what the future may hold - and to help explore how faith can best intersect with action. I can't think of a more exciting or fruitful way to spend my vacation.

Krishawn Noble (SF, 6'5", 2010)
Kameka "Chip" Walls (SG/SF, 6'4", 2009)
Allen Hauser (SF/PF, 6'3", 2010)
Cory Gantt (PG/SG, 6'1", 2009)
Calvin Gamble (PG, 5'9", 2009)
Camaron Scales (SF/PF, 6'3", 2010)

Plus a few others, and all of these guys can play, but first I wanted to talk about Justin Parham (PG/SG, 5'9", 2009), a player who lacks size but plays strong with the ball and can flat out shoot from deep. Justin is not just a spot up jump shooter; he can also pull up in transition or under pressure. Quite frankly, I witnessed at least twice where the defender fouled him during his release and he still sank the shot. Make no mistake about it; his calling card is his long range shooting.

However, while some shooters are content to simply drift outside the arc and wait for the ball, Justin is an active guard. His ability to drive and dish makes him more than a one-dimensional three point specialist. He is not prone to ill-advised shots and will pass off for a better look to a teammate.

Justin's shot is strong and his form is very good. He can handle the ball well in traffic, and attacks the basket effectively, causing problems for the defense. I would compare his style at this point somewhat to Tyrese Rice, although Justin sees himself as a two guard, he knows he needs to be able to play the point. Like Rice, he is a shooter who will likely have to play a lot of point due to his size. Justin is obviously very serious about his game and it is apparent he has put a lot of work in. He looks like a very coachable player, and displays good awareness and poise on the court. In speaking with him, he seems like a very mature person with a good attitude and realistic expectations. In other words, the kind of player coaches need.

Justin has interest from several schools, most notably Georgia Tech and Boston College, and given the chance, he'd like to play in the ACC. He has an offer from High Point University but is still wide open at the moment. He has garnered interest from Western Carolina, UNC Greensboro and Fayetteville State as well.

I'll be following Justin's game and getting his thoughts as he progresses through his senior season, playing for Winston-Salem Prep.

Thinking about my future after college, choosing the right university and the right course, money matters and so on. I like this part of my life a lot, even though I generally dislike decision making, being very indecisive-almost to the point of having some kind of a disability.

Anyway, I was also thinking about reviewing some UK colleges for international students, as I have applied for several of them this year. I got to know many members of international offices and learned a few useful tips for prospective college students. People should know about advantages and disadvantages of studying overseas and also about the system in the UK from an average person's point of view (that would be me).

I've come up with a list of several colleges and a description of their services, fees, accommodation and more. Here we go...

I thought I'd start with the Boston college, as it's the one I'm headed to : )

Boston is located in Lincolnshire, East Midlands, UK. I've chosen this place of all because of its pleasant weather conditions (not too hot, not too cold - just about right) and a peaceful area. The town itself is rather small, with about 50 000 inhabitants. To cut it short, it's not a busy area, which gives students more opportunities to concentrate on their studies, rather than partying (but, hey, partying is a great part of a college life and I'm not saying it's impossible in Boston : P You just have to know the right people, I believe).

The college offers a great range of various A level subjects and it's not centred around just one area. You can choose up to 4 subjects and submit an online application, which is easy to complete. Here comes the time for a useful tip. Normally, international students would be required to provide some language test result - IELTS. The test is quite hard to pass, but it's the best one available (you can request it at your local British council office). However, if you choose to apply through some student agency, you will be given a very easy english test, which you can mostly pass sitting at home (it's up to you whether you'll cheat or not, but the test is very, very easy).

The advantage of applying on your own is that you can save the agency fees and you're the one who's got the control over the process. You don't have to rely on other people and you also communicate with the international office by yourself. The only problem might be the visa application process. Students who opt for applying on their own might have some problems with the entry clearance, as the visa offices tend to be very strict about the paperwork. You'd have to provide any document that comes to your mind to make sure you get your visa on time.

Agencies can provide you with a special paper that would make it all a bit easier. 

Back to the process... Once you submit your application (whichever way you choose) you have to wait for them to reply. They will let you know whether they need anything else from you, or not. Mostly they will need a copy of your ID, passport, your parents' documents and copies of any language certificates you can provide. Copies of your school reports from past 3 years are required, too.

Once you've provided that, you have to wait for your acceptance letter, which you'll need for your visa application.

On the behalf of Boston college I have to say that their staff is very easy to get along with, they're very helpful and patient. I'm a very chaotic person and it takes me ages to get organized. I'm very thankful for their support - special thanks to Margaret. 

If you're interested in studying at the Boston college, please visit their website. 

john Leggott college was my first choice, to tell the truth. Like Boston, they have a little bit different fees, lower than most of other colleges, but they still provide students with a wide range of courses and activities. The college is located in North Lincolnshire, not so far from big cities like Manchester and Liverpool. For more information, visit college's website  - this link will take you directly to the international section.

Since I've explained the process above (yes, the process is pretty much the same, since they also have on online application) all I have to say is that it's one of the best colleges in the area, especially when it comes to international students who don't want to pay a fortune or get into a great debt. Surely it's much more lovely in Oxford or Cambridge, but the expenses would be enormous.

These two colleges I've been talking about above have a friendly atmosphere, are internationally recognized and can lead you to top universities (I think it's better to save some money while you're at a college, so you can spend some more at university, right).

They both provide satisfactory accommodation either at the halls of residence, or in a homestay. I've been talking to some people who go there and they're very happy with their choices - so am I.

I think that's all for now - I will write more later.

-Ana

We profiled the males in the running for ACC athlete of the year yesterday and asked for your input. Now it's time for the females.

I briefly considered Amanda McDowell and Rachel Dawson, but in the end I don't think I can go against Virginia Tech's Angela Tincher. She finished the year with a 0.63 ERA and 669 strikeouts, both tops in the nation.

She also went 38-10 this year. Nothing against the rest of the Hokies, but without Tincher, Virginia Tech wouldn't have been in the NCAA Tournament, much less the Women's College World Series. She was the single most dominant player on a team sport this season, men's or women's, and for that reason alone she gets my vote.

What do you think?

The nominees:

KASEY HILL, Boston College, senior, track and field

Placed seventh in the heptathlon with a new personal best and Boston College record of 5,666 points; earned her second All-America nomination with her NCAA performance; qualified for the Olympic Trials in and is ranked 13th nationally in the heptathlon; in the ACC Tournament, Hill won the heptathlon with 5,521 points, which was her second ACC individual championship.

ANI MIJACIKA, Clemson, sophomore, tennis

Earned All-America honors in singles and doubles; helped lead Clemson to the 2008 ACC Championship; was a finalist for the Honda Sports Award for tennis; named to the 2008 All-ACC team; rose to the No. 1 singles ranking in the Feb. 20 poll, the first Clemson tennis player, man or woman, to earn the top ranking …spent every poll of the spring season in the top five.

AMANDA BLUMENHURST, Duke, junior, golf

2007-08 Golfweek and PING National Player of the Year; won the Golfstat Cup and the Dinah Shore Trophy; tied her own school record with a 71.00 stroke average; ACC Player of the Year; finished the season ranked No. 1 in the Golfweek/Sagarin Performance Index for a third straight year.

MAMI YAMAGUCHI, Florida State, junior, soccer

Recipient of the 2007 Missouri Athletic Club Hermann Trophy, presented to the top female player in NCAA Division I soccer; guided the Seminoles to their third straight College Cup appearance; led the country in points (66), while finishing second in both goals (24) and assists (18).

AMANDA MCDOWELL, Georgia Tech, sophomore, tennis

2008 NCAA Singles Champion; 2008 ITA National Player of the Year; All-ACC selection; led the Yellow Jackets to their second straight ITA National Team Indoor Title; set a new school record with 45 singles wins in 2008.

CRYSTAL LANGHORNE, Maryland, senior, basketball

Associated Press and USBWA All-American for the third-straight year, and WBCA All-American for the second-straight year; ACC Player of the Year; Maryland’s leading scorer (17.1 ppg) and rebounder (9.4 rpg), leading the Terps to a 33-4 record and a second NCAA Elite Eight appearance in three years.

KHADIJA TALLEY, Miami, senior, track and field

Named the NCAA Southeast Region Field Performer of the Year by the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association; qualified for the NCAA National Championships in both the discus and the shot put; finished second at the NCAA East Regionals in the shot put with a career-best mark of 17.02 (55-10.25).

RACHEL DAWSON, North Carolina, senior, field hockey

2007 National Player of the Year and recipient of the Honda Award as the nation's top field hockey player; first-team All-America; helped lead UNC to a 24-0 season and NCAA and ACC titles, voted ACC Defensive Player of the Year; while being recognized as the top player on the nation's best defense, also led the country's top offense in goals.

KHADIJAH WHITTINGTON, NC State, senior, basketball

Averaged a team-best 16.8 points per game and led the conference with 11.7 rebounds per contest; named first-team All-ACC and to the All-ACC Defensive Team; helped lead the Wolfpack to a 21-13 record.; she played in 129 games, never missing a contest in her four years.

BECKY SAUERBRUNN, Virginia, senior, soccer

2007 NSCAA First Team All-American, ACC Defensive Player of the Year; anchored a defense that led the nation with a 0.40 goals against average and posted a school-record 15 shutouts; helped lead Virginia to a 13-4-6 record and the NCAA Round of 16.

ANGELA TINCHER, Virginia Tech, senior, softball

USA Softball National Player of the Year; Honda Award National Softball Player of the Year; helped lead her team to its first-ever NCAA Women's College World Series; led the nation in ERA and strikeouts; went 38-10 with a 0.63 ERA; helped lead the Hokies to the Atlantic Coast Conference tournament title and was named MVP of the tournament.

MICHELLE LOYD, Wake Forest, senior, track and tield

Loyd was Wake Forest's only representative at the 2008 NCAA Track and Field championships after qualifying with a school record 58.06 performance at the Regionals in Tallahassee, Fla.; 2008 Outdoor All-Region selection; placed first among female collegiate competitors in the 400m hurdles at the Penn Relays with a 58.95 finish.

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It's never too early to talk ACC hoops and Bob Rathbun stops by to chat about basketball. Rathbun, who calls ACC games for Raycom and is the Voice of the Atlanta Hawks, discusses the U.S. Olympic basketball team, a couple of ACC players taken in the NBA Draft and the outlook for ACC hoops in 2008-09.

We also discover that, in spite of his lofty credentials that include being a multiple Emmy Award winner and a member of the 2008 class of the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame, Rathbun -- much like Paul Johnson last week -- can't keep his dog quite.

Also this week:

-- ACCNation.com columnist Will Ojanen makes his debut on the podcast;

-- Q receives many e-mails telling him why he's wrong about Duke football and its lawyers;

-- Is Patrick and easy date?;

-- Patrick defends Paul Johnson against those who weren't happy with his appearance on the podcast last week;

And more.

How the NBA Draft affected the conference, the individual and overall ACC Sportsmanship Award, baseball has wrapped up another year and time once again for those hidden tidbits in our Bits and Pieces segment. There is really no telling what you might find this week.

As always we encourage you to call us on the Buzz Line at 206-202-1706 with your thoughts and comments on stories affecting your favorite ACC team. Be sure to listen to the weekly podcast when we play back select calls.

ACC MEN'S BASKETBALL

North Carolina State's J.J. Hickson assured the ACC of at least one first round draft pick in the NBA. With Hickson the conference now has 20 straight years of first round draft selections.

Three other players out of the conference, Deron Washington, James Gist and Sean Singletary were also selected in the draft.

ACC SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD

The Atlantic Coast Conference has named Virginia Tech the receipient of this year's overall sportsmanship award.

Individual team recognition is noted here.

BITS AND PIECES

A "Pack" mentality is what it will take with Gamecocks.

The "Lowe-down" on State w/o Hickson.

Would you bet on Duke?

The old coaching switcheroo.

Junior Morgan passes.

Blue Devils do well in U.S. Women's Open.

Cutcliffe licks wounds and comes out winner.

*I gave Duke a bit more attention this week to make up for past sins.

FSU on the "Chopping Block".

Okay but how about today?

Xavier Lee dropped by Baltimore.

Now we're down to begging.

Big Time Backstop.

Better days ahead for Ramblin' Wreck.

Johnson builds on youth.

Friend of the Nation Wes Durham gets new partner.

Hokies head to Olympic trials.

VT builds basketball program.

Beamer Ball in action.

Edu credits Terps.

Women's lacrosse reloads.

Skeen on skids.

Wake player has last laugh.

Gaudio. He was the right pick.

Don't crown UNC Champs just yet.

Tar Heels heading to Beijing.

Miller rounds out coaching staff at Phoenix.

Pollock will be missed.

Tigers send six to swim trials.

Safety charged.

Good lord. A bit early don't you think?

Boston College picks up offensive threat.

Can Jags shine?

Best all-around sailing team.

Cavs grab Renfrow.

UVA tabs walk-on center.

 New pronunsticator at Virginia.

On January 2nd 2008, I arrived in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, where I would be spending the next five months of my life. I am going to be a senior at Boston College, and decided to spend the second semester of my Junior year studying abroad in Ecuador, a decision that changed my life. My program was coordinated through Boston College and combined a full semester of classes, trips, and volunteering with a local organization of our choice. Like most students who study abroad in Ecuador, I took classes at La Universidad de San Francisco de Quito, located in a valley called Cumabaya, a short bus ride outside of the Ecuadorian capital. The school is made up of 3,000 students of which approximately 300 are international students (mostly from the US). This mix allowed me to become good friends with both Ecuadorians and non-Ecuadorians who were interested in many of the same things as me. During the semester I lived with a family whom I became very close to as the semester progressed and as my Spanish developed. Living with a family provided the invaluable opportunity to become intimately connected to the culture: eating the local food, listening to Ecuadorian music, and sharing stories with the family during the long weekend lunches. The family that I lived with had two sons around my age so it was very cool to be able to spend time with them and learn how life is for a 21 year-old Ecuadorian.

At the university, I only had class four days a week, which allowed me to travel any weekend that I pleased. Ecuador is a very small country, roughly the size of the state of Colorado, but is very rich in biodiversity. Inside the small borders of Ecuador are the Amazon Rainforest, the Andes Mountains, and a large stretch of coast on the Pacific Ocean. During my travels, I was fortunate enough to be able to visit all three regions of Ecuador several times. My favorite trips included white water rafting in a small town called Tena at the beginning of the Amazon Rainforest, climbing the second highest mountain in Ecuador and the highest active volcano in the world called Cotopaxi, an adventure in the Amazon Rainforest to a small indigenous village, and my trip to the world famous Galapagos Islands.

Throughout my semester, I volunteered at a home for children whose parents were suffering from alcoholism, were in jail, or simply no longer around. At El Hogar Suizo, The Swiss Home, I worked with the carpenter that is in charge of repairing and maintaining the classrooms and the sleeping areas of the children. Volunteering with this organization was very rewarding, but frustrating at times due to the lack of resources available.

The Ecuadorian people are very nice, outgoing and very proud of their beautiful country and what it has to offer. If you are lost or simply trying to practice your Spanish, every Ecuadorian is very eager to offer a helping hand or have a friendly conversation. After spending five months in Ecuador I feel as though I have a second home, and have really grown to understand and love the culture. During my travels in the future, I know I will end up in Ecuador again, hopefully sooner rather than later.