UNC Tar Heels Post Game Thoughts: GT

Lawrence Jordan: Well, needless to say, I think every Tar Heel fan expected more this weekend. Better play calling. Better execution. Better balance. Better football. Paul Johnson and GT deserve credit for their coaching and execution. If the Tar Heels are going to take the proverbial "next step," they have to avoid performing like they did last weekend.

TJ Yates: Yates put on his best Delhomme impression this weekend and stunk up Bobby Dodd stadium. His passes were inaccurate, late, and poorly chosen. The young WR's did their best to save him on several opportunities (see Erik Highsmith), but Yates could not get the job done.

• Stats: 11/26, 137 yds, 1 td, 2 int
• Yates commented on his performance, "Embarrassing...That's all it is, embarrassing."
• Davis commented on Yates' performance, "Balls were behind guys, they were short of guys, then obviously you start to press a little."
• Not exactly a ringing endorsement...

Sean Draugh / RBs: The Offensive Line is thin and young this year, but Draughn has got to read his blockers better. Hop-skipping into a pile at the line of scrimmage on first down does not start an offensive possession aggressively. Davis/Schoop seem to like the "thunder & lightning" aspect with Draughn/Houston but it they aren't more successful it will be time to switch things up. Houston, with his Brandan Jacobs build, will need to see more touches earlier if Draughn keeps proving ineffective. Let's not forget, the Heels have Jamal Womble on the sidelines who put up impressive numbers as a prep and against Citadel earlier this year.

So on the year RB totals are as follows:

• Daughn: 60/249, 4.2 ypc, 0 tds, 0 fum
• Houston: 31/143, 4.6 ypc, 4 tds, 0 fum
• Womble: 6/41, 6.8 ypc, 0 tds, 0 fum

Offensive play calling: Creative? Nope. Aggressive? Never. Predictable? You know it. UNC finished 1/11 on 3rd down conversions. Anemic. That's a result of Yate's innacuracy but also horribly conservative play calling early in the series. Combined with turnovers early in possessions...and you witnessed the onslaugh in Atlanta.

Let's take a look at how the 1st down play calling resulted (possession, call, yards, plays, result):

• 1st, rush middle, 3 yards, 4 downs, punt
• 2nd, rush right, 1 yard, 4 downs, punt
• 3rd, incmp screen pass, 0 yards, 4 downs, punt
• 4th, rush right, -7 yards, 4 downs, punt
• 5th, rush middle, 9 yards, 6 downs, fumble
• 6th, rush left, 5 yards, 10 downs, missed FG (1st half: time of poss: 11 min 34 sec)
• 7th, screen pass, 12 yards, 5 downs, punt
• 8th, pass, 1 down, INT
• 9th, pass, 11 yards, 4 downs, TD
• 10th, incmp screen pass, 0 yards, 9 downs, INT (2nd half: time of poss: 6 min 20 seconds)
  

Tired Defense: The defense did not play a stellar game, but they played almost the entire game. Only 1 third down conversion, 2 INTs, and a fumble results in the GT offense having the ball for 42:06 minutes of a 60 minute game. That breaks down to rounghly 50 plays for the UNC offensive unit, and 90+ plays for the defensive unit.

The entire UNC offense, players and coaching staff, are to blame for this. There is no excuse for such an unbalanced game. The play calling was absurdly conservative on first down, the QB was terribly inaccurate and inefficient, the RB's were ineffective, and the offense turned the ball over early in possessions. This leads to losing 24-7 at GT...and it could have been worse.

Short missed FGs. This is the most consistent part of our offense and that is not positive for young Mr. Barth.

Carolina Panters vs Dalls Cowboys

Philip Thompson: Why the Panthers will win...

1. WADE PHILIPS IS THE COACH FOR DALLAS!!!!!!!!
2. The Cowboys may actually be more prone to turning the ball over then the Panthers. Romo is a mistake waiting to happen
3. If Marion Barber is unable to play, the Panthers biggest weakness is less likely to be exposed
4. As big of a headache as TO was, the Cowboys now lack a game changer at wideout

Game Score:
Carolina 24
Dallas 23

Lawrence Jordan: Why the Panthers will lose...

1. Jake Delhomme plays QB for the Carolina Panthers.
2. Felix Jones is more than just a capable back-up to Marion Barber and should do just fine against a thin Panther D giving up nearly 170 ypg.
3. Speaking of defense, the Panthers also give up a league worst 33 ppg.
4. To rattle Romo, he needs to end up on his back and feel pressure. The Panthers only have 2 sacks and 4 tackles for loss on the season.

Game Score:
Dallas 31
Carolina 13

Thoughts from around the NFL

Philip Thompson:

1. Last weeks Panthers loss can not be blamed on Jake Delhomme. He threw for over 300 yards and the only pick came on 4^th down when he had to throw it. Right now the Panthers inability to stop the run is their most glaring weakness.
2. Huge win for the Ravens last weekend in San Diego. The Chargers have to win games like that to keep them from playing cold weather games in January
3. Would any think Tony Romo was one of the best Qb’s in the league if he did not play the Cowboys or claim Jessica Simpson as an ex-girlfriend?
4. I am amazed that defenses still can not stop the ‘wildcat’. He is a hint; Ronnie Brown is not going to beat you throwing the football. When he lines up in the shot gun, move everyone into the box and key on him and Ricky Williams
5. What a surprise the Bengals have been. They are one fluke play away from being 2-0. After watching Hard Knocks I thought they were destined to be in the bottom of the league
6. Top 5 teams (in order)- Giants, Ravens, Saints, Jets, Vikings
7. Bottom 5- Rams, Chiefs, Browns, Buccaneers, Raiders

Duke Football Tailgate Announcement

Who: Duke University Students, Parents, and Alumni
What: First Annual Bull City Gridiron Classic Tailgate
When: Saturday September 26, 2009 at 6:45-6:50 p.m.
Where: Wallace Wade Parking Lot
Why: To encourage social interaction between the Glee Club, Chess Club, Rythm& Blue A Capella Group, Anime Friends, and Crazies Who Care service organization. (Band members will be warming up for the athletic event.)

We would like to encourage all students to congregate outside the south gate at our own Wallace Wade stadium this Saturday for some live, social interaction and activities. We sent out our crack Social Events Team (photo above) to provide distilled water and vanilla ice cream for everyone!

We'll have a TV and Wii set up so you can video bowl or play video cornhole, but make sure not to over exert yourselves.

If you do not know how to locate Wallace Wade Stadium, we'll send the GPS coordinates and/or the latitude/longitude out via email. You can use the Google Maps application on your iPhones to find your way.

Gathering outside in a group will be new for many of you, so we thought we would provide a checklist of items for you:

• Clip-on/Flip-down for your spectacles
• Sun Tan Lotion (50+ SPF)
• Fanny-Pack
  
• Blackberry/iPhones with extra battery packs
• Hand Sanitizer
• Official NCAA Football Rule Book
• New Jersey to English Dictionaries
• Long Trench Coat and/or Cape
  
• Outgoing personalities!

We know live, social interaction is new to many of you, so we suggest warming up by trading email addresses, twitter names, or phone numbers (for texting purposes only) before actually speaking to one another.

There is a football game afterward with a local public university, but we understand if you are completely exhausted from the party and need to take a nap. We hope to see you there. We may even splurge on Teddy Grahams! -TBA-

NCSU Wolfpack vs Pittsburgh Panthers

Philip Thompson: Why NC State will win...

• The Pack is still angry from the egg they laid against South Carolina. No offense to Murray State and Gardner Webb, but this is there first opportunity to redeem themselves from three weeks ago.
• Pittsburg lacks the same speed that gave the Wolfpack trouble against South Carolina. Russell Wilson should be able to get to the outside and make plays against the Panthers.
• Bottom line is NC State needs a win against a team that is recognized nationally, and Tom O’Brien will have the team ready to play.

Final Score:
NC State 24
Pittsburgh 17

Lawrence Jordan: Why NC State will lose...

• Pitt picked as preseason Big East favorite. Neither team has played anyone respectable to date, but Pitt handled a Navy team with ease that gave Ohio St. fits. Laws of transference don't exactly apply, but early cupcakes do not speak for themselves.
• Pitt is more physical than the Wolfpack. Pitt is a more physical team than the Wolfpack. USC had more speed, but the Pack also looked overwhelmed with their strength.
• Pitt has a favorable offensive style. When involved in a tightly contested match, time of possession and offensive flow generally favor the victorious team. Pitt's run first/pass second scheme seems to favor controlling the clock/
• The numbers seem to slightly favor Pitt. When you compare the numbers on the season, Pitt and NCSU are very similar as far as points scored/points allowed. When you compare the skill positions, Pitt's rushing and passing leaders seem more successful within their offensive system. The Pack's Wilson has favorable numbers at QB, but the Pitt QB's does not turn the ball over either.

Final Score:
Pittsburgh 28
NC State 24

UNC Tar Heels vs GT Yellow Jackets

Lawrence Jordan: Why the Tar Heels will win...

• UNC run defense. The Tar Heels stingy run defense has not yielded more than 72 yards in a game this year. GT is ranked #1 in the ACC in rushing yards per game, so we're matching strength on strength. Top RB Dwyer is gimpy after suffer a shoulder stinger last week against Miami. GT will get more than 72 yards with their unique system, but watch for the Tar Heels to frustrate them.
  
• UNC developing receivers. Erik Highsmith is proving to be a reliable receiver, especially in high pressure/long yardage situations. Jheranie Boyd flagged down a nice deep route against ECU. Jackets have given up 250+ yards against their past two ACC opponents.
• GT passing inefficiency. Nesbitt is only completing 38% of his passes. GT receivers have a tendency to haul in the deep route, but if the running game cannot establish itself against the UNC DL this percentage cannot carry an offense. So ineffective running, poor pass completion rate...
• GT poor 3rd down conversion rate. GT is 9-28 in its last two ACC games. Watch for the Heels to pin their ears back and get after Nesbitt in 3 and long.
• Miscellaneous. GT's fake FG/TD against Clemson resulted in the entire ACC officiating crew being suspended. The referees are now well aware of the results of missing tom-foolery. This will be a tightly called game.

Final Score:
North Carolina 27
Georgia Tech 23

Philip Thompson: Why the Tar Heels will lose...

• Georgia Tech was embarrassed last week in Miami. The Yellow Jackets were humiliated on national television and will be looking to reclaim their status as a contender in the Coastal Division
• Georgia Tech will play like a desperate team. They were picked to challenge for the division, but a loss on Saturday would have them two games behind UNC and either Virginia Tech or Miami. Also they would be in a bad position on all tie breakers.
• Georgia Tech is due for a huge game rushing the ball. Their ground game has struggled the past two weeks, and Paul Johnson will not allow for this to continue.

Final Score:
Georgia Tech 21
North Carolina 17

Collecting ACC Transfers

Lawrence Jordan: Florence, AL - The University of North Alabama (UNA) is cleaning up the NCAA Division II Gulf South Conference. Who? Where? Why is this relevant? I know what you are thinking.

The better question would be, "When?" That date would be January 1, 2009, the day Terry Bowden signed with UNA to replace their head football coach Mark Hudspeth, who took a job as passing co-ordinator for Mississippi State.

Bowden immediately used his name recognition, family ties (brought brother Jeff on as WR's coach), and 111-53-2 coaching record to real in some Division I FBS transfers, many of whom are from the ACC.

Among the recognizable names who transfered to UNA: Harrison Beck (NCSU), Richie Rich (UNC), Kenton Thornton (UNC), and Preston Parker (FSU). Other FBS schools represented on the transfer list include: Miami, Texas, Pitt, WVU, Illinois, and Louisville.

Apparently 10 years away from coaching and past NCAA violations are forgivable when athletes are given a second chance at glory.

UNA finished 2008 with a 12-2 record, an appearance in the national semi-final, and a #3 National ranking in the Division II polls. They returned a stingy defense from 2008, but lacked experience and talent at many offensive positions.

Enter Terry Bowden and his stable of ACC experienced players and now the 2009 UNA Lions are again #3 in the polls with 4-0 record while averaging 46 points per game and holding their opponents to 14 points per game.

Bowden is quoted in UNA's season preview saying, "One of my main interests in coming to a program like UNA is to have the chance to play for a championship."

It appears UNA's 2009 team is off to a great start and have goods odds of acheiving that championship goal. Speaking of odds, who knows...maybe he's found the next Willie Parker?

What's without question, is the Lions can credit their "clean up" to Bowden and his diligent sweeping up of disgruntled Division I players, many of which were displaced by ACC coaching regime changeovers.

Links:

• Univeristy of North Alabama Football
• Rankings
• News & Observer: Luke DeCock
• Yet Another...NC State Sports Blog

The State of the Old North Hate (Week 4)

Lawrence Jordan: The Old North State rounds out this weekend at 3-2 to bring the cumulative record to 9-8. Some showings impressive, some showings unimpressive, but all showings instigated rival opinions.

UNC (3-0): The Tar Heels stay unblemished in 2009 by keeping ECU's total of TD's in the second half at zero. Big conference test Sat. in Atlanta against GT.
NCSU (2-1): The Wolfpack scrimmaged Broughton High School for the second straight week, and looks forward to their 4th straight game in Raleigh. Their competition steps up in the form of FBS school Pitt.
WFU (2-1): The Deacs' private school tour continues this weekend when they play at BC. They easily handled I-40 rival the Elon University Phoenix last Sat.
Duke (1-2): The Blue Devils neither did themselves nor their conference any favors in KS last weekend. They come back to play cross town rival NCCU Saturday. Cross town rival? Yep. Their basketball players take classes there. Bragging rights...
ECU (1-2): The Pirates found some holes in the Tar Heel secondary, but had a tough time moving the ball on the ground. They open up conference play in Greenville this weekend against UCF.
App St (0-2): The Mountaineers recovered this weekend with a buy week. Open up conference play against Samford - whose only loss is against UCF this year.

Games this week:

• UNC @ GT 12 pm
• NCSU vs Pitt 3:30 pm
• WFU @ BC 2 pm
• Duke vs NCCU 7 pm
• ECU vs. UCF 3:30 pm
• App St vs Samford 3:30 pm

Mid-Week Links

Lawrence Jordan: I apologize if anybody missed us the past few days. Life duties called. Let us throw you a few links as a peace offering while we get our additional posts together. We can't take credit for them, but we can point you there.

• Crying, Contemptuous, Conniption Throwing, Clemson Fan: This has been posted everywhere, but it's so ridiculous it must be posted. Even the ESPN crew throw a few jabs in on live television. We've all seen bourbon induced belligerency at games - this is just being a big baby: LINK
• Holy Mel Gibson! That may or may not have been a terrible movie reference, but State Fans Nation goes all "Conspiracy Theory" on us in this Biblicly long post. Dan Brown would be proud...LINK
• Do you have to report this to the IRS? Oregon Ducks coach reimburses alumnus for his travel and accommodations expenses over the holiday. UVA & Duke...you paying attention: LINK
• So which one is Jimmy Chitwood? Introducing your 2009-2010 Duke Blue Devils. I think I see "Shooter" Flatch on the middle row, far left. LINK
• Mildly creative - but since I haven't written anything about it: Here is UNC's victory over ECU explained in picture form - for we all know ECU has reading comprehension problems (that last jab probably wasn't necessary): LINK

NCSU Wolfpack vs Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs

Philip Thompson: Why NC State will win...

• We are only at halftime against our 1-AA opponents and are already up 65-7. This game will be a continuation of last week’s game.
• Though we obviously have not played against very good offenses so far this season, the Wolfpack defense has been much better than expected.
• Gardner Webb is a small school outside of Shelby. Enough said.

Final Score:
NC State 48
Gardner-Webb 13

Lawrence Jordan: Why NC State will lose...

• The H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu) has surfaced in Raleigh: LINK
• The Runnin' Bulldogs enter the game 2-0 and average 42.5 points a game this season.
• The last FBS school GW played was GT in 2008 in Atlanta. GT squeaked out a 10-7 victory. The Runnin' Bulldogs won't be intimidated in Raleigh.
  
• GW has a trio of receivers with over 100 yards on the season to date, and all have at least 1 TD. Watch for the NCSU secondary to give up a big play or two.

Final Score:
Gardner-Webb:14
NSCU:13

UNC Tar Heels vs. ECU Pirates

Lawrence Jordan: Why UNC will win...

• ECU's secondary woes. Look for UNC's inexperienced WR's to get some good looks tomorrow afternoon. WVU's inexperienced QB had a career day last weekend in WV.
• ECU offensive production. Watch for the UNC DL to control the line of scrimmage - WVU held ECU to 62 yards rushing. When the offense goes to the air, watch for the ball-hawking UNC secondary to force a few turnovers.
• ECU's second half struggles. The Pirates have only scored 2 points after half time this season. Watch for UNC to stymie an early push and then control the second half of the game.
• UNC has never lost a home game to ECU (8-2-1 overall).

Final Score:
North Carolina 21
East Carolina 10

Philip Thompson: Why UNC will lose...

• Their offense looked pathetic last weekend against UCONN. If they are sitting on zero points again entering the 4th quarter, they are in trouble.
• They are playing against kids that could not get into UNC or NCSU. The Pirate kids have that extra bit of motivation after being denied access to the ACC
• This is ECU’s SuperBowl. They would much rather leave Chapel Hill with a victory than win whatever conference they play in.
• This is the only time all season I pull for ECU

Final Score:
East Carolina 23
North Carolina 17

Follow the Tar Heels

Lawrence Jordan: Social Media is becoming standard for the younger generation, and it offers an unfiltered view and direct access to our favorite players that once never existed. Here at the TheONH we set up a twitter account and we would like to encourage our readers to do the same.

Here are a list of Tar Heels on Twitter:

Current Basketball Tar Heels:

• Roy Williams:
• Marcus Ginyard:
  
• Leslie McDonald:
• Ed Davis:
  
• Tyler Zeller:
  
• John Henson:
  
• Dexter Strickland:
  
• Will Graves:
• Deon Thompson:
• Larry Drew II:
  

Former Tar Heels:

• Tyler Hansbrough:
  
• Rashad McCants:
  
• Sean May:
  
• Kenny Smith:
• Ty Lawson:
  
• Quentin Thomas:
  

Future Tar Heels:

• Kendal Marshall:
  

Football Heels:

• Marvin Austin:
  
• Aleric Mullins:
  
• EJ Wilson:
  
• Kendric Burney:
  

Looking for more? Check out the information about ACC related football follows: LINK

Thursday Links

Lawrence Jordan: It's Thursday afternoon and it's time for some links...

• Tyler Hansbrough in new AT&T commercial: LINK
• Phillies fan should teach his daughter to be more grateful: LINK
• The ACC has produced some big time NFL talent: LINK
• I know, I know...I should want Greg Paulus to fail miserably, but I find myself oddly routing for him. But, this might be a bit of hyperbole: LINK
• Thursday night means football! Miami vs GT should be fun: LINK
• I'm sorry Mountaineers but this NEVER gets old: LINK
• This guy is no Charles Kuralt: LINK

Panther Preview (Week 2)

The Carolina Panthers laid a big egg during week 1 (Thanks Jake!) and look to rebound against their budding division rival, the Atlanta Falcons. How will the Cats fare?

Philip Thompson: Why the Panthers will win...

• Jake Delhomme is consistently inconsistent. Would not be surprised at all if he had a good game.
• Panthers should be able to run the ball with their running back tandem
• God has something against the Falcons. No way they can get all the breaks that they got last season

Lawrence Jordan: Why the Panthers will lose...

• Jake Delhomme is their quarterback.
• The OL will struggle against the Falcon defensive line (hello turnovers).
• Ryan, Turner, White, Gonzalez...Atlanta has too many weapons for a thin Carolina defense.
• Jake Delhomme is their quarterback.

NFL Quick Thoughts

Philip Thompson: NFL quick thoughts:

• I guess the NFL had to fine the Jets for not reporting the Farve injury last year, but I still believe these injury list is a joke. Do you really think Bill Belichick is going to hand over information about the status of his team?
• I am willing to wage a large chunk of money that AJ Feeley is not the answer to the Panthers problems
• The Houston Texans continue to be the biggest tease in the league
• Tony Romo looked great last week. But I will be very interested to see him against a great Giants defense
• Teams that badly need a win this weekend: Panthers, Bears, and Washington
• Top 5 teams (in order): Giants, Eagles, Patriots, Steelers, Chargers

The State of the Old North Hate (Week 3)

Lawrence Jordan: The Big 4 held up their end of the bargain this weekend, but ECU and App St. had trouble. Playing WVU in WV is never easy and McNeese state is a top 10 FCS program, but both were expected to put up a better fight.

UNC (2-0): The Tar Heels spun their wheels on the soggy field in CT, but eventually found traction enough to pull out the win. It was not pretty but it put another W in the column. The last undefeated team in NC after week 2? They put it on the line this weekend against in-state EZU...I mean ECU.
NCSU (1-1): The Wolfpack trounced an over-matched Murray St. program and vented a little offensive frustration. Look for much of the same this weekend against Gardner Webb.
WFU (1-1): The Deacs pulled off an impressive comeback against Stanford last weekend. Line up another private school Elon travels down I-40 for a visit.
Duke (1-1): The Blue Devils pulled off an impressive victory over Army. Replacing proven starter Lewis with red-shirt freshman was a bold call...that worked. Tough match in Kansas this weekend.
ECU (1-1): The Pirates need to keep the offense going in the second half. Tough loss last weekend in WV, but the purple and gold will bring a large following to Kenan this weekend. The ECU boys will be fired up against ACC foe.
App St (0-2): The Mountaineers opened up with a tough schedule. They look to turns things around against Samford this weekend.

Games this week:

• UNC vs ECU 12 pm
• NCSU vs Gardner Webb 6 pm
• WFU vs Elon 6:30 pm
• Duke @ Kansas 12 pm
  
• App St vs Samford 3:30 pm

PT's Weekend Recap

• Disaster in Charlotte: What the hell was that yesterday? I love the Panthers but I could not stomach anymore after halftime. At least they can use the high draft pick to select a QB. Whoops, they traded that for a 2nd rounder this past draft.
• Return of the Wolfpack Offense: It may have been against Muray State, but it was still nice to have 65 points in the middle of the 3rd quarter.
• App State Fans: It is amazing you can’t hear them running their mouths right now. In week one the excuse was ECU is a bigger school and we were not supposed to win. But McNeese State?
• Serena Williams: I was speechless when I saw this. Serena said she did not threaten the line judge, but you can clearly see she did. Who looked worse this weekend, Serena or Kanye West?

Coastal Division Supremacy...for now.

Lawrence Jordan: I do not always agree with Heather Dinich, ESPN's ACC blogger, but I think she makes a good point in her most recent post: LINK.

My counterpart, Philip Thompson, preaches of the supremacy of the Atlantic division, but I think he would have a hard time arguing the current status of the league.

It is a shame that these teams will be knocking each other off so early in the season. Conversely, this is why I am so glad that NCSU is now our last game of the season instead of Duke.

By the way, Philip, the combined record of NCSU's (Atlantic) opponents and UNC's (Coastal) opponents were identical last year (31-33).

ACC Big Four Predictions Revisited (Week 2 Results)

Original Predictions: LINK

LJ: Week 2 (4-0): Season (5-3): I think the theme from this weekend is, "A win is a win." It wasn't pretty, be it winning safety calls or trouncing lesser division schools, but the Big 4 ran the table this weekend. Just what they needed to start garnering some respect.

• NCSU vs. Murray St (hit): There's the offense! The Pack played well and vented a little stored up frustration from the previous weekend.
• WFU vs. Stanford (hit): Great comeback by the Deacs. Grobe's stoic confidence leads the Deacs back. Skinner brought back memories of his freshman year.
• Duke vs. Army (hit): So, Cutcliffe replaced starter Lewis with redshirt freshman Renfree in the middle of the game down 10-7. Result 35-19 W. Very good call.
• UNC vs. UConn (hit): U-G-L-Y. The Heels' turnovers and stymied running game kept them in check for 3 quarters, but once they remembered they had Houston and quick routes they began to move the ball. Hate to win on the safety via holding call, but the guy did tackle Quinn and those are the rules. 2-0 and moving on...

UNC Tar Heels vs. UConn Huskies Game Preview

Lawrence Jordan: Why UNC will win...

1. Shawn Draughn, Ryan Houston, and Jamal Womble. This trio led the rushing attack that total 261 yards against the Citadel. Don't look for as large a total this game, but the RBs will play a large role in the Tar Heels success.
2. Size. The offensive line might be inexperienced by they outweight their UConn defensive counterparts by an average of 40 lbs. Most notably 300+ pounders Jolly and Ingersall vs. UConn's 238 pound Joseph.
3. Injuries. UConn's defensive leader, Scott Lutrus, is questionable for the game tomorrow with a shoulder injury. His coach calls him "indispensable."
4. Defensive Depth. Austin, Sturdivant, and Quinn lead a deep and experienced frontline against UConn's formidable RB combination of Todman and Dixon. The Heels will give up more than the 30 yards the Citadel gained, but in a match-up of strength on strength the Heels have the advantage.
5. Turnovers. Zach Frazer threw 3 INT's last year against the Heels and did the same last week against Ohio University. Watch for the Heels to capitalize on his miscues.

Final Score:
North Carolina 24
Connecticut 13

Line: UNC -5

The State of the Old North State (Week 2)

LJ: Not a pretty opening (2-4) for the ACC or the schools of North Carolina opening weekend. Much is left to be proved during the infancy of the 2009 season. Were the bumps just growing pains?

UNC (1-0): After throttling their FCS opponent last weekend, the Heels look to run over their first FBS opponent UConn in CT.
NCSU (0-1): The Pack looks to rebound after a disappointing and underwhelming opening weekend. Expect the Pack to pour it on this weekend against a weaker opponent.
WFU (0-1): Wake lost to a Big 12 private school at home last weekend. How will they fair against a Pac10 private school in Winston this weekend?
Duke (0-1): Losing the season/home opener to an FCS school does not bode well for the Blue Devils.
ECU (1-0): The Pirates came out guns a'blazin' last weekend, but had to hold on in the end to secure the win. Will need a full game to handle WVU in WV who will want revenge for the 24-3 teeth kicking they took last year in Greenville.
App St. (0-1): It looked like it was going to be embarrassing early last weekend, but the 'Neers showed pride and made it respectable. They should easily handle a weaker opponent this weekend.

Games this week:

• UNC @ UConn @ 12 pm
• NCSU vs. Murray St. @ 6 pm
• WFU vs. Stanford 12 pm
• Duke @ Army @ 12 pm
• ECU @ WVU @ 3:30 pm
• App. St vs. McNeese St. @ 3:30 pm

Thursday Links

LJ: Here's a quick look at topics being discussed this week:

• Former ACC athletes in the NFL. Who knew Maryland would be tied for 3rd? Who didn't know Duke would be last? LINK
• Derek Jeter ties Lou Gehrigs' Yankee record for hits. Even as a Red Sox fan I begrudgingly admire Jeter. A pro's pro. LINK
• Dear NFL athletes: millions of dollars and world wide recognition and you settle for d-list reality TV trash or casino cocktail waitresses! Time to raise those standards. LINK-Merriman: LINK-Roethlisberger
• NFL Pergatory: Richard Seymour, yes playing in Oakland sucks. Yes, your old team cold-heartedly dealt you away. Yes, this is the NFL and teams are businesses. You signed on for this profession so take the good with the bad - it's in your contract. LINK
• Swine Flu wrecks shop in Oxford, MS: LINK
• Remember when Allen Iverson was that little guy awesomely dunking on people at Georgetown? Now he plays for the Grizzlies, and made the announcement via Twitter: LINK

2009 NFL Breakdown

Philip Thompson: The NFL approaches - here are some quick predictions.

AFC East

1. New England - Tom Brady is back but not many familiar faces on defense.
2. Miami - The team may be better but it will be difficult to duplicate last years record
3. NY Jets - Marc Sanchez started all of one season at USC and is ready to run an NFL team. I expect many struggles this season.
4. Buffalo - If not for T.O. would anyone care about them?

AFC South

1. Indianapolis - No Dungy or Harrison but they still have Manning.
2. Houston - This is the year they FINALLY break through.
3. Tennessee - Jeff Fisher is as good as they come, but it will be difficult to recreate last season.
4. Jacksonville - A pretty good team stuck in a division with three really good teams.

AFC North

1. Pittsburgh - Still the champs. Will Big Ben’s off field issues be a problem?
2. Baltimore - Flacco has to continue to manage games and not lose them for the defense.
3. Cincinnati - Somebody has to be better between them and the Browns.
4. Cleveland- The ‘Mistake on the Lake’ continues to live up to its name

AFC West

1. San Diego - May have division wrapped up by Halloween. Needs to be #1 seed in AFC to avoid cold weather games in Pittsburg and New England come January.
2. Denver, Kansas City, and Oakland - Is it possible to have three teams this bad in the same division? Denver may have the edge here cause they can at least score.

NFC East

1. NY Giants - Giants strength along the defensive line and strong running game allows them to continue to win in spite of Eli Manning
2. Philadelphia - Strong offense as normal, but how much will they will Jim Johnson and his great blitzing schemes?
3. Dallas - Wade Philips; enough said
4. Washington - A competitive team trapped in a really tough division

NFC South

1. Carolina - Can Panthers put it together once starters return for regular season?
2. Atlanta - Falcons defense is now younger, but are they better?
3. New Orleans - Their defense never stops anybody, and do not expect it to start now
4. Tampa Bay - Rebuilding begins and so dose loosing

NFC North

1. Green Bay - They put up video game like numbers in the preseason
2. Minnesota - They will be good because of Peterson and Defense, not Farve
3. Chicago - Jay Cutler is not a winner. Fact: He has not played on a team with a winning record since high school
4. Detroit - Look for them to be improved. Then again, they can only go up.

NFC West

1. Seattle - Injuries killed them last season. Still the best team on paper in division.
2. Arizona - Welcome back to reality
3. San Francisco - Getting better but still really weak at the QB position
4. St. Louis - Are they the most boring team in the NFL?

AFC Championship: San Diego over New England
NFC Championship: New York over Green Bay
Super Bowl Champ: San Diego

ACC Big Four Predictions Revisited (Week 1 Results)

Original Predictions: LINK

LJ: (1-3): Like the whole of the ACC, it was a rough opening weekend for my predictions. It's hard to gain respect when the results do not play out on the field (on in my case "blog").

• NCSU vs. SC (miss): I vented about this game here, but I am still truly amazed by the futility of NCSU's offense. SC was missing 3 defensive players due to suspension. And, no, SC's low score was not a result of a dominating Wolfpack defense; missed opportunities and poor decisions defined SC's offensive output.
• WFU vs. Baylor (miss): WFU had a hard time corralling the athletic Baylor QB Robert Griffin and 4 turnovers eventually iced this game. What happened to the Riley Skinner of years past?
• Duke vs. Richmond (miss): Despite a great afternoon for Lewis, 2 missed FG's and a blocked point were enough for the FCS Richmond Spiders to walk away with a road victory in front of Duke's largest home crowd in years.
• UNC vs. The Citadel (hit): The Heels played the Bulldogs like a FBS school should play an FCS school. The undermanned Citadel squad were simply over matched.

PT: (2-2) Average week but still fared better than the ACC as a whole.

• NCSU vs. SC (miss): Poor showing to start the season. Offense looked a group of high school kids. However, the defense did play better than expected, but was aided by a weak Gamecock offense.
• WFU vs. Baylor (hit): You could tell that Aaron Curry is no longer playing LB for Wake as Baylor’s Griffin was uncatchable. Score was closer than it should have been? Skinner seemed to better as a freshman.
• Duke vs. Richmond (miss): Duke, you have got to be kidding me! There is no excuse to ever lose to a 1-AA team. Could be another long season in Durham. Look on the Brightside, they could only have counted one game between Richmond and NC Central towards their bowl eligibility
• UNC vs. The Citadel (hit): Congrats, you beat the Citadel. Whoopty-Damn-Doo. Those turnovers might be alarming and get you in trouble against a real team.

And now introducing Michael Jordan...David Thompson?

Thompson to Introduce Michael Jordan at HOF Acceptance Ceremony: LINK

Lawrence Jordan: We all have had this argument. Every single one of us at some point in our sports fan maturation process. It was almost a right of passage on the playgrounds. "Who was better: David Thompson or Michael Jordan?"

This is a loaded question as each player made their marks in different eras. Thompson had an incredible college career apexing with the Wolfpack's victory over Bill Walton and his heralded UCLA team for the 1974 National Championship. Jordan also had a great college career, winning a National Championship in '82, but built and established his legacy during his professional exploits.

Recent history often skewed the debate at this time (late 80's through the 90's), due to Jordan throttling his way through the NBA, so many Thompson's exploits were just faint stories or hearsay. But, thanks to YouTube and the patient people who uploaded the videos, anyone can look up highlight reels of both players.

It is the ultimate sign of respect for Jordan to ask Thompson to do the honors for his NBA HOF Acceptance Speech. In many ways, Thompson's athleticism and style of basketball inspired Jordan's approach to the game, so it is in fact Jordan who is "doing the honors" with his invitation.

Imagine that...a UNC legend paying homage to a NCSU legend. Will wonders never cease?

So, for the record, the most common answer to the previously posed question is: "Thompson had a better college basketball career, but Jordan had a better professional basketball career." Too bad NCSU players could not get paid for shoes while in college - oh wait...(I had to get one barb in there).

Weekend College Football Thoughts

Phillip Thompson:

Looking Back:

1. NC State was awful. Just plain awful.
2. That sucks for Oklahoma. What are they playing for the rest of the season?
3. That was embarrassing for the ACC. 2 losses to 1-AA schools in the same weekend.
4. Not ready to claim Miami as being back, but they looked much better than they have in years.

Looking Ahead:

1. Hopefully Clemson vs. Georgia Tech will be a better Thursday night game than the one last week.
2. I would love to see USC destroy the Buckeyes in Columbus on Saturday night.
3. I will not be attending the NC State/Murray State game
4. Maybe the Panthers can turn on the switch and start the season off right against the Eagles

UNC Tar Heels vs. The Citadel Bulldogs Game Predictions

Lawrence Jordan: Why UNC will win...

1. The Tar Heels are 3-0 lifetime against the cadets with a overall score of 109-21.
2. The Citadel went 4-8 overall last year and 0-2 against FBS schools (losing by an avg maring of 39.5 points).
3. The Tar Heels return 9 starters on the defensive side of the ball, and the Citadel should have problems matching their size and speed.
4. The Tar Heels are lead by TJ Yates and a running attack of Draughn, Houston, and Womble. The Bulldogs only have 5 players on their roster that outweigh the 245 lbs. Houston.
5. The Tar Heels open the much anticipated 2009 season at home in Chapel Hill's beautiful Kenan Stadium.

Final Score:
North Carolina 36
Citadel 13

I fell for it...

Lawrence Jordan: I admit it. I let the Wolfpack fans affect my better judgment. I should know better.

After an off season of listening to how strongly NCSU finished in the conference last season, beating WFU, Miami, and UNC, I failed to realize those teams collectively finished 3-9 over their respective final three games in conference.

After listening to how tough NCSU's schedule was last year, I didn't notice that they only played 2 (BC and FSU) of the 4 teams that finished with 5 wins in the conference. The Wolfpack went 0-2 in those meetings in 2008.

After hearing about Russel Wilson's superiority all summer, I never noticed the "playmakers" that were his supporting cast. His starting RB (Baker) was coming off a two year recovery from leg injury and still beat out the incumbent RB from 2008 (Eugene). His starting WRs (Spencer and Williams), known for their big plays, were inconsistent with their per game number of catches.

After hearing about the momentum NCSU would gain from "light" schedule in the early season, I forgot that the Wolfpack has not won their first game of the season against an FBS opponent since 2002.

After watching the Wolfpack and Gamecocks play last night, I realized I made the classic error of listening to the unbridled, frothing Pack enthusiasm. The NCSU offense performed worse in 2009 than it did in 2008. The NCSU defense might have "held" USC to 7 points, but that was more a result of the ineptness and inaccuracy of Garcia and the USC offense.

As usual, the bark of the preseason was much worse than the bite on the field in Raleigh last night.

NCSU Wolfpack / USC Gamecock Game Predictions

Philip Thompson: The NC State Wolfpack will win:

1. We have Russell Wilson on our side. This is the first time in a while the Pack will have a proven commodity at QB to start the season.
2. Steve Spurrier looked old and tired at the end of last season. Has the game passed by the Old Ball Coach?
3. NC State has playmakers on the outside that have the potential to can large chunks of yardage
4. Stephen Garcia is the opposing QB. Let us hope he is the same player from last years Outback Bowl.
5. Tom O’Brien has had time to build some overall team depth in his 3rd season.
   

Final Score :
NC State 24
South Carolina 20

Lawrence Jordan: The SC Gamecocks will win:

1. South Carolina is 9-0 in its last 9 season openers, including a 34-0 romp over the Wolfpack last year.
2. NCSU has not beaten its first FBS opponent in a season since 2002.
3. NCSU's defensive leader, Nate Irving, is out for the season with a broken leg.
4. NCSU finished last in the ACC in total defense in 2008, mainly thanks to shaky coverage in the secondary.
5. South Carolina hails from the almighty SEC Football conference, where it loses regularly, but its historically a better conference than the ACC.
   

Final Score:
South Carolina 27
NC State 25

What does Las Vegas think? NCSU -5

College Football Opening Week 2009

Lawrence Jordan: College football season is finally set to open this week and here at TheONH we could not be more excited. Let's check around NC to breifly check in (listed in no particular order):

1 & 2. UNC/NCSU are each coming off bowl seasons and are ready to establish themselves as "The Program" in the state, a term Tom O'Brien so eloquently introduced after last year. The Pack jumps right into the mix hosting the Gamecocks in an ACC/SEC battle over recruiting rights. UNC also plays a school from the inferior state of SC, that just so happened to beat the Gamecocks last time they played (38-35 in 1990).
PT: The ‘state supremacy’ battle will be a common theme all year. But how can you discount what O’Brien said last season. Remember he was 4-0 against the rest of the state.
LJ: I'm not discounting - I'm glad he said it. It's about time there was some civilized disagreement between Raleigh/Chapel Hill. Bunting/Amato stomping and pointing at each other before the games was embarrassing more than anything. NCSU has bragging rights due to its wins, but how do you explain the fact that UNC/NCSU had 6 shared opponents last year: UNC was 4-2. NCSU was 3-3? LINK.

3. Wake Forest is still in the midst of one of their University's greatest runs in football program history and has more FBS wins than any other school in the state over the past three years. "Switzerland," as the local afternoon radio station so affectionately calls them, is far from neutral on the subject.
PT: Wake should once again field a solid team despite some major losses on the defensive side if the ball. Would not be shocked at all if the fall to Baylor this weekend.

4. Duke has more talent than in recent memory and David Cutcliffe, with the Mannings' endorsement, is starting to win games in and out of Wallace Wade. Oh how I wish they had Syracuse on their schedule...
PT: Duke is getting better, but how could they have gotten worse. What if Paulus plays better than their current group of QBs?

5. ECU wants it's piece of the pie and is gaining recognition in the national media. They received more votes in the preseason poll than did NCSU. ECU packs in a good schedule this year with WVU, UNC, and VT on the docket. The Pirates open up this week with fellow ONH'er Appalachian St.: who's proven they are not afraid of the big boys.
PT: ECU, where are those “BCS Bound” t-shirts you were wearing in Raleigh last season? Please enjoy the Liberty Bowl this season.

6. Appalachian State, with its 3 FCS National Titles, used the national recognition garnered through its legendary upset of Michigan in the Big House to continue its golden era of football under Jerry Moore. With the aforementioned Michigan win and its trip to LSU last year, Appalachian will not be intimidated to open in Greenville, NC.
PT: Sorry App St. fans, I do not cover high school football...

Games this week:

• NSCU vs South Carolina Thurs. @ 7 pm
• UNC vs Citadel Sat @ 6 pm
• WFU vs Baylor Sat @ 3:30 pm
• Duke vs Richmond Sat @ 7 pm
• ECU vs App State Sat @ 12 pm