I've been a little reluctant to praise them after their first few wins in the conference, but I can now say with some certainly that Miami is the best team in the ACC. That may change before the year is out, but there's no question they are playing the best basketball. Miami has already beaten Duke, UNC and Florida State on the way to a 6-0 conference start. They are currently two games ahead of anyone else.
Other headlines from this weekend include N.C. State's domination of UNC. When the Wolfpack get up for a game, they are as good as anyone. The final score was not indicative of how well N.C. State played for much of the game. Carolina looked completely flustered at times, even forcing Roy Williams to call a rare timeout. Duke got back on the right track as well, with a breakout performance from Rasheed Sulaimon in a blowout win over Maryland. The Terps have yet to have that signature win that NCAA Tournament resumes are built on.
Here is the schedule for this week:
Tuesday:
Georgia Tech at Clemson (7:00 p.m., FSN)
Georgia Tech got their first conference win in impressive fashion over Wake Forest over the weekend. After struggling offensively, they broke out for 82 points. Can their offense continue on the road at Clemson? The Tigers need more efforts from Milton Jennings like they had against Virginia Tech.
N.C. State at Virginia (7:00 p.m., ESPN2)
The best game of the week, in my opinion. N.C. State has shown the ability to beat anyone at home, but has already lost to Wake Forest and Maryland on the road. Virginia will try to keep them out of that transition offense that was so good against North Carolina. If Virginia can hit threes like they have been recently, they can pull off the big home win.
North Carolina at Boston College (9:00 p.m., ESPNU)
Boston College has been competitive, but not able to seal the deal down the stretch in ACC games. They have a chance at a big win at home against the Tar Heels. We'll see how North Carolina's mindset is after that loss in Raleigh. Can they find two or three consistent scorers? If the Heels get out to a lead early, expect them to coast.
Wednesday:
Duke at Wake Forest (8:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Wake's confidence had to take a hit after their performance in a winnable road game at Georgia Tech. They now get a second chance against Duke. The Blue Devils may have found a star in the making in Sulaimon. I can see Wake hanging around for a while but the Blue Devils will be too much in the end.
Maryland at Florida State (8:00 p.m., ACC Network)
These two teams really need to win this game. Maryland stands at 3-4 in the league, needing to put some wins together. Florida State is at 3-3, coming off a blowout loss to Miami. Both of these teams have NCAA Tournament inspirations, but it's unlikely both will make it. If Alex Len can control the paint, Maryland can win.
Miami at Virginia Tech (9:00 p.m., FSN)
Miami is obviously on a roll right now. The only way they lose this game is if they have a big letdown after their last two home wins. Virginia Tech does not have the manpower to compete with the Hurricanes' veteran squad. Miami has not been as effective offensively on the road, but they shouldn't have much trouble scoring against the Hokies' defense.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Friday, January 25, 2013
Weekend Preview: 1/26-1/27
There were some surprising results in the ACC this week. Let's start with Wake Forest's win over N.C. State. This has to be a red flag result for the Wolfpack. They had a 12 point lead at halftime, and couldn't hold that in the second half against Wake. Give the Demon Deacons credit, this is the biggest win that Jeff Bzdelik has had in his three years. But this is a bad loss for N.C. State. They can't afford to be taking games off. And their defense has to step it up.
The other pretty surprising score was Miami 90, Duke 63. We knew that Miami had a good chance of knocking off the Ryan Kelly-less Blue Devils, but didn't think Duke would let anyone go on a 25-1 run. This game was completely over at halftime.
Elsewhere, Virginia picked up a nice road win in coasting over rival Virginia Tech. If the Cavaliers can shoot threes like they did in this game, they will finish in the top half of the league. Clemson came oh so close to beating Florida State but let Michael Snaer lead the Seminoles to a dramatic win. Florida State has been wildly inconsistent this year, you never know which team you will get.
Here are the games this weekend:
Saturday:
Boston College at Virginia (1:00 p.m., FSN)
Boston College has come pretty close a few times, but will need to have their outside shooting going if they want to win in Charlottesville. The way Virginia plays, it wouldn't surprise me if they lost a game like this. But they have been good at home so far and should win this one.
Maryland at Duke (1:00 p.m., CBS)
This game doesn't have the same luster that it did a few weeks ago. Duke is coming off a blowout loss to Miami, and is still without Ryan Kelly. Maryland won their last game but have really struggled offensively in the last couple weeks. They need a better first half performance than they had last week at North Carolina or it's going to be a Duke rout.
Wake Forest at Georgia Tech (3:00 p.m., ACC Network)
This is an intriguing game. Georgia Tech has struggled in conference play, but has the talent to win. Wake is coming off their biggest win in three years, but will they have a letdown? Neither one of these teams is going to make the NCAA Tournament but this should be a good fight.
North Carolina at N.C. State (7:00 p.m., ESPN)
This is a big game for both teams, especially the Wolfpack. They haven't looked like world-beaters since they toppled Duke, going 1-2 with the only win a narrow one at home against Clemson. Meanwhile, the Heels are coming in on a roll, with as much confidence as they've had all season. They won't be intimidated by going to Raleigh. This one is all about emotion. If N.C. State is able to play fired up but not too fired up they will win.
Sunday:
Virginia Tech at Clemson (1:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Clemson has been playing better, but have two narrow losses in the last week. They will be happy to go back home, where their defense has really clamped down on opponents. Virginia Tech has to get more from players other than Erick Green to be able to compete in this one.
Florida State at Miami (6:00 p.m., ESPNU)
Miami just keeps rolling through the ACC schedule, a surprising first place team. As I mentioned earlier, Florida State is very inconsistent. If they bring their A game they can win. But they can't afford to take stretches off and have Miami jump on them like they did in the Duke game.
The other pretty surprising score was Miami 90, Duke 63. We knew that Miami had a good chance of knocking off the Ryan Kelly-less Blue Devils, but didn't think Duke would let anyone go on a 25-1 run. This game was completely over at halftime.
Elsewhere, Virginia picked up a nice road win in coasting over rival Virginia Tech. If the Cavaliers can shoot threes like they did in this game, they will finish in the top half of the league. Clemson came oh so close to beating Florida State but let Michael Snaer lead the Seminoles to a dramatic win. Florida State has been wildly inconsistent this year, you never know which team you will get.
Here are the games this weekend:
Saturday:
Boston College at Virginia (1:00 p.m., FSN)
Boston College has come pretty close a few times, but will need to have their outside shooting going if they want to win in Charlottesville. The way Virginia plays, it wouldn't surprise me if they lost a game like this. But they have been good at home so far and should win this one.
Maryland at Duke (1:00 p.m., CBS)
This game doesn't have the same luster that it did a few weeks ago. Duke is coming off a blowout loss to Miami, and is still without Ryan Kelly. Maryland won their last game but have really struggled offensively in the last couple weeks. They need a better first half performance than they had last week at North Carolina or it's going to be a Duke rout.
Wake Forest at Georgia Tech (3:00 p.m., ACC Network)
This is an intriguing game. Georgia Tech has struggled in conference play, but has the talent to win. Wake is coming off their biggest win in three years, but will they have a letdown? Neither one of these teams is going to make the NCAA Tournament but this should be a good fight.
North Carolina at N.C. State (7:00 p.m., ESPN)
This is a big game for both teams, especially the Wolfpack. They haven't looked like world-beaters since they toppled Duke, going 1-2 with the only win a narrow one at home against Clemson. Meanwhile, the Heels are coming in on a roll, with as much confidence as they've had all season. They won't be intimidated by going to Raleigh. This one is all about emotion. If N.C. State is able to play fired up but not too fired up they will win.
Sunday:
Virginia Tech at Clemson (1:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Clemson has been playing better, but have two narrow losses in the last week. They will be happy to go back home, where their defense has really clamped down on opponents. Virginia Tech has to get more from players other than Erick Green to be able to compete in this one.
Florida State at Miami (6:00 p.m., ESPNU)
Miami just keeps rolling through the ACC schedule, a surprising first place team. As I mentioned earlier, Florida State is very inconsistent. If they bring their A game they can win. But they can't afford to take stretches off and have Miami jump on them like they did in the Duke game.
Monday, January 21, 2013
Week Preview: 1/22-1/24
In a weekend full of great college basketball, the ACC wasn't really a big factor. Only eight teams played this weekend, with two of the four games ending in blowouts. The headliner was the game between Maryland and North Carolina. The Tar Heels appear to be getting better by the game, coasting to an easy win after a great first half. Reggie Bullock outscored Maryland in the first half by himself. The Terps have to be a little more concerned. They are an Alex Len putback away from being 0-4 in their last four games.
N.C. State struggled to put away Clemson, thanks largely to the game by Devin Booker. But they were able to make plays down the stretch to win. Florida State looked terrible in putting up just 36 points on the road at Virginia. That has to be a concern for Seminole fans. The most competitive game was Virginia Tech knocking off Wake Forest at home despite a really good game for Travis McKie.
All 12 teams are back in action this week. Here's the schedule:
Tuesday:
N.C. State at Wake Forest (7:00 p.m., FSN)
The Wolfpack have a fairly short turnaround after their win on Sunday night, but don't have a long road trip to Winston-Salem. This is a game they should win, but so far Wake is 2-0 at home. The Demon Deacons need to be able to get offense from players other than McKie and C.J. Harris if they want to be able to pull off the upset.
Boston College at Maryland (9:00 p.m., ESPNU)
Boston College has been playing better, although they only have one conference win so far. Maryland cannot slip up and lose this one, though. They have to come out focused and put away BC early. Right now Maryland is not an NCAA Tournament team but if they can start putting together some wins they can play their way in.
Wednesday:
Duke at Miami (7:00 p.m., ESPN)
This is the marquee ACC game of the week. Duke is definitely not the same team without Ryan Kelly, but they have enough talent left to pull off the road win. Miami has been good so far, but this is their biggest test of the season. If Miami can find someone to slow down Mason Plumlee with Reggie Johnson out, they can win.
Georgia Tech at North Carolina (9:00 p.m., ESPN)
North Carolina has the ability to put together a nice run here, with a favorable schedule in the next five. This is such a young team, though, that you never know what you are going to get. Georgia Tech played well for a half at Duke and could give the Heels trouble but I would expect Carolina to win.
Thursday:
Clemson at Florida State (8:00 p.m., ACC Network)
It's pretty crazy that these two teams are playing for the second time already. Florida State got out to a big lead and held on in the first game at Littlejohn. You never know what you are going to get from them, though. Clemson has played better in their last three games, but I would expect them to struggle some on the road here.
Virginia at Virginia Tech (8:00 p.m., ACC Network)
No ACC team has had such a difference in their home and road results than Virginia. They have played really poorly on the road at Clemson and Wake Forest. The Cavaliers are a better team than Virginia Tech, but this is a rivalry series that doesn't always go according to plan. Expect it to go down to the wire.
N.C. State struggled to put away Clemson, thanks largely to the game by Devin Booker. But they were able to make plays down the stretch to win. Florida State looked terrible in putting up just 36 points on the road at Virginia. That has to be a concern for Seminole fans. The most competitive game was Virginia Tech knocking off Wake Forest at home despite a really good game for Travis McKie.
All 12 teams are back in action this week. Here's the schedule:
Tuesday:
N.C. State at Wake Forest (7:00 p.m., FSN)
The Wolfpack have a fairly short turnaround after their win on Sunday night, but don't have a long road trip to Winston-Salem. This is a game they should win, but so far Wake is 2-0 at home. The Demon Deacons need to be able to get offense from players other than McKie and C.J. Harris if they want to be able to pull off the upset.
Boston College at Maryland (9:00 p.m., ESPNU)
Boston College has been playing better, although they only have one conference win so far. Maryland cannot slip up and lose this one, though. They have to come out focused and put away BC early. Right now Maryland is not an NCAA Tournament team but if they can start putting together some wins they can play their way in.
Wednesday:
Duke at Miami (7:00 p.m., ESPN)
This is the marquee ACC game of the week. Duke is definitely not the same team without Ryan Kelly, but they have enough talent left to pull off the road win. Miami has been good so far, but this is their biggest test of the season. If Miami can find someone to slow down Mason Plumlee with Reggie Johnson out, they can win.
Georgia Tech at North Carolina (9:00 p.m., ESPN)
North Carolina has the ability to put together a nice run here, with a favorable schedule in the next five. This is such a young team, though, that you never know what you are going to get. Georgia Tech played well for a half at Duke and could give the Heels trouble but I would expect Carolina to win.
Thursday:
Clemson at Florida State (8:00 p.m., ACC Network)
It's pretty crazy that these two teams are playing for the second time already. Florida State got out to a big lead and held on in the first game at Littlejohn. You never know what you are going to get from them, though. Clemson has played better in their last three games, but I would expect them to struggle some on the road here.
Virginia at Virginia Tech (8:00 p.m., ACC Network)
No ACC team has had such a difference in their home and road results than Virginia. They have played really poorly on the road at Clemson and Wake Forest. The Cavaliers are a better team than Virginia Tech, but this is a rivalry series that doesn't always go according to plan. Expect it to go down to the wire.
Friday, January 18, 2013
Weekend Preview: 1/19-1/20
There were two one-point games this week, with interesting finishes. Despite being down almost the whole game, N.C. State had a great chance to pick up a road win at Maryland, but Alex Len's putback with 0.9 seconds left gave the Terps the win. N.C. State went a little too much to Scott Wood down the stretch, missing the opportunity to seize control. For Maryland, it's a much needed win. The other exciting finish was in Chestnut Hill. Boston College had three free throws to tie the game at the end, but fell one point short of a nice upset. Miami remains unbeaten in the ACC.
Here's what's on tap for the weekend:
Saturday:
Maryland at North Carolina (12:00 p.m., ESPN)
Very interesting game to start off the weekend. Maryland wants to build off the momentum of the N.C. State game and get to 3-2 in the conference. They need to find some offense after a couple games in a row of subpar offensive outputs. North Carolina hasn't played since their solid road win at Florida State. The Heels need to show that it wasn't a fluke, and that they are building. Another home loss at this point in the year would be very damaging.
Wake Forest at Virginia Tech (2:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Wake took a step back in their last game, only mustering 44 points in a blowout loss to Clemson. It's hard to say at this point if they have made progress from last year. Virginia Tech got a nice road win last week at Georgia Tech but had been playing really poorly before that. If Wake can force someone other than Erick Green to beat them, they can win.
Florida State at Virginia (4:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Maybe a trip back home will be what Virginia needs to snap out of their two game funk. Of course this game last year was a bad memory for the Cavaliers, blowing a late double digit lead. Florida State has been a very mixed bag so far. It's hard to tell what will happen in this game. But expect a low scoring affair.
Sunday:
Clemson at N.C. State (6:00 p.m., ESPNU)
Clemson hasn't shown the ability to score with any regularity, and they will be taking on an N.C. State team that has to be mad with how their last game turned out. If the Tigers don't come ready to play, they could be blown out of the gates.
Duke, Georgia Tech, Boston College and Miami are off this weekend.
Here's what's on tap for the weekend:
Saturday:
Maryland at North Carolina (12:00 p.m., ESPN)
Very interesting game to start off the weekend. Maryland wants to build off the momentum of the N.C. State game and get to 3-2 in the conference. They need to find some offense after a couple games in a row of subpar offensive outputs. North Carolina hasn't played since their solid road win at Florida State. The Heels need to show that it wasn't a fluke, and that they are building. Another home loss at this point in the year would be very damaging.
Wake Forest at Virginia Tech (2:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Wake took a step back in their last game, only mustering 44 points in a blowout loss to Clemson. It's hard to say at this point if they have made progress from last year. Virginia Tech got a nice road win last week at Georgia Tech but had been playing really poorly before that. If Wake can force someone other than Erick Green to beat them, they can win.
Florida State at Virginia (4:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Maybe a trip back home will be what Virginia needs to snap out of their two game funk. Of course this game last year was a bad memory for the Cavaliers, blowing a late double digit lead. Florida State has been a very mixed bag so far. It's hard to tell what will happen in this game. But expect a low scoring affair.
Sunday:
Clemson at N.C. State (6:00 p.m., ESPNU)
Clemson hasn't shown the ability to score with any regularity, and they will be taking on an N.C. State team that has to be mad with how their last game turned out. If the Tigers don't come ready to play, they could be blown out of the gates.
Duke, Georgia Tech, Boston College and Miami are off this weekend.
Monday, January 14, 2013
Weekend Recap
Parity is ruling so far in the ACC. After three games, only N.C. State and Miami are unbeaten, and only Georgia Tech is winless. The Wolfpack had the biggest win over the weekend, knocking off #1 Duke at home. I really don't consider that an upset. Duke was without Ryan Kelly, and on the road against the preseason #1. Assuming Duke wasn't going to go through the ACC undefeated, this would have been my #1 choice for a game they would lose. Still, credit to N.C. State. They came out with a lot of energy in the second half, and with the help of some great rebounding by Richard Howell, pulled it out.
North Carolina also got a big win over the weekend, on the road at Florida State. They were able to really increase their offensive output against a team that historically has been very stingy on defense. The other game of interest was Miami surviving at home against Maryland in a game where offense was lacking. Neither team was able to score 20 points at the half. Maryland now needs to regroup after losing two in a row.
What was interesting about this past weekend is that there were three games between teams in the top half of the conference, and three games between teams in the bottom half. That made for some competitive games, with only one being decided by double digits.
The slate of games during this week is lighter, with four teams taking a few days off.
Tuesday:
Wake Forest at Clemson (7:00 p.m., ESPNU)
Wake finds itself at the top half of the standings at 2-1, but those wins have been against Virginia and BC at home. Let's see if they can win one on the road. Clemson remains offensively challenged, but got a surprisingly easy win against Virginia on Saturday.
Wednesday:
Miami at Boston College (7:00 p.m., FSN)
Possible trap game for Miami? Boston College has played more competitive basketball as of late. Miami is definitely on a roll, with a solid 3-0 start, but they need to avoid any bad losses if they want to make the NCAA Tournament. Look for a good battle between Ryan Anderson and Kenny Kadji.
N.C. State at Maryland (7:00 p.m., ESPN2)
This is a very big game for Maryland. N.C. State is coming off an emotional win at home, traveling to the Comcast Center. Maryland is no lock to make the NCAA Tournament and the Terps have not looked very good in their last two games. A loss doesn't hurt N.C. State that much, but Maryland doesn't want to go 1-3 in the ACC with a trip to Chapel Hill on the weekend.
Thursday:
Georgia Tech at Duke (9:00 p.m., ESPN)
Georgia Tech has played pretty solid defense so far, but they haven't been able to get it done on the offensive end, especially late in games. That's why they sit at 0-3. Duke is coming off a tough loss, and banged up. The Yellow Jackets may be able to keep it close, but I expect the Blue Devils to be too tough at home.
By the way, I mentioned that the teams in the top half and the bottom half played each other this weekend. They might not be in the top and bottom of the standings, but I think there's a pretty clear line you can draw between the six best teams in the league and the six bottom teams. At the top you have Duke, N.C. State, Maryland, Miami, UNC and Florida State. At the bottom it's Wake Forest, Virginia Tech, Virginia, BC, Clemson and Georgia Tech. Unless something changes, look for that to be the hierarchy going forward.
North Carolina also got a big win over the weekend, on the road at Florida State. They were able to really increase their offensive output against a team that historically has been very stingy on defense. The other game of interest was Miami surviving at home against Maryland in a game where offense was lacking. Neither team was able to score 20 points at the half. Maryland now needs to regroup after losing two in a row.
What was interesting about this past weekend is that there were three games between teams in the top half of the conference, and three games between teams in the bottom half. That made for some competitive games, with only one being decided by double digits.
The slate of games during this week is lighter, with four teams taking a few days off.
Tuesday:
Wake Forest at Clemson (7:00 p.m., ESPNU)
Wake finds itself at the top half of the standings at 2-1, but those wins have been against Virginia and BC at home. Let's see if they can win one on the road. Clemson remains offensively challenged, but got a surprisingly easy win against Virginia on Saturday.
Wednesday:
Miami at Boston College (7:00 p.m., FSN)
Possible trap game for Miami? Boston College has played more competitive basketball as of late. Miami is definitely on a roll, with a solid 3-0 start, but they need to avoid any bad losses if they want to make the NCAA Tournament. Look for a good battle between Ryan Anderson and Kenny Kadji.
N.C. State at Maryland (7:00 p.m., ESPN2)
This is a very big game for Maryland. N.C. State is coming off an emotional win at home, traveling to the Comcast Center. Maryland is no lock to make the NCAA Tournament and the Terps have not looked very good in their last two games. A loss doesn't hurt N.C. State that much, but Maryland doesn't want to go 1-3 in the ACC with a trip to Chapel Hill on the weekend.
Thursday:
Georgia Tech at Duke (9:00 p.m., ESPN)
Georgia Tech has played pretty solid defense so far, but they haven't been able to get it done on the offensive end, especially late in games. That's why they sit at 0-3. Duke is coming off a tough loss, and banged up. The Yellow Jackets may be able to keep it close, but I expect the Blue Devils to be too tough at home.
By the way, I mentioned that the teams in the top half and the bottom half played each other this weekend. They might not be in the top and bottom of the standings, but I think there's a pretty clear line you can draw between the six best teams in the league and the six bottom teams. At the top you have Duke, N.C. State, Maryland, Miami, UNC and Florida State. At the bottom it's Wake Forest, Virginia Tech, Virginia, BC, Clemson and Georgia Tech. Unless something changes, look for that to be the hierarchy going forward.
Friday, January 11, 2013
Weekend Preview: 1/12-1/13
We're two games in and getting a good feel for the teams' strengths and weaknesses. The headline of the last few days is probably Miami's road win at Chapel Hill, and the struggles of the young Tar Heels. UNC is heading to the wrong side of the bubble fast, and has not played like a team in their last few games. They will not have a lot of chances to learn on the fly, as their next couple games are very tough.
Another big story is the start of the Seminoles. It looked like this was definitely going to be a down year in Tallahassee, and it still can be, but they have gotten off to a great start, winning at Clemson and at Maryland. The Terps really struggled at home in the second half, which is a red flag for people who thought they were only doing well because of their soft schedule.
This weekend is shaping up to be a really good slate of games. Let's check it out:
Saturday:
Duke at N.C. State (12:00 p.m., ESPN)
This may be the game of the year in the ACC and on paper the best chance for Duke to take a conference loss. One thing that should play into N.C. State's favor is the absence of Ryan Kelly, who was injured in the Clemson game. The Blue Devils proved late last year that missing Kelly is a huge factor. N.C. State struggled a bit with Georgia Tech before rolling at the end. They will definitely be pumped up for this one.
Virginia at Clemson (12:00 p.m., ACC Network)
This is a matchup of teams that really struggled in their last games. Clemson only scored 10 points in the first half against Duke, while Virginia was down big at Wake before staging a late rally. Virginia is the team that is more capable of playing to a high level, but they haven't proven that they can play well on the road. Clemson really needs to win this one to gain some confidence.
North Carolina at Florida State (2:00 p.m., ESPN)
This game last year certainly went in the way of the Seminoles. We'll see how much UNC is out to prove after two uninspiring losses. Florida State has been much improved recently, but don't assume that Florida State is going to roll. They are still very capable of laying an egg. The key will be 3 point shooting. If North Carolina can hit some outside shots, they can win.
Virginia Tech at Georgia Tech (2:30 p.m., ACC Network)
Both teams have been really struggling, each with different problems. For Georgia Tech, it's offense, and for Virginia Tech, it's defense. The Hokies have looked like clearly the worst team in the league in their past several games, never more evident than in their double-digit home loss to Boston College. Georgia Tech hung well with N.C. State until it got close to the end. They should win at home.
Boston College at Wake Forest (4:00 p.m., FSN)
The matchup of the preseason bottom two teams in the league. Both were able to get wins during the week, which they will be looking to build on. Don't expect a lot of offense in this one. The difference will be whether Boston College can get some scoring from anyone other than Ryan Anderson.
Sunday:
Maryland at Miami (8:00 p.m., ESPNU)
I really like this game. Maryland will be upset coming off that blown game against Florida State. Miami is riding high from its win in Chapel Hill. Alex Len will be key in this one. Without Reggie Johnson's big body in there for Miami, Len should be able to dominate inside. If he doesn't, and if Miami hits their 3s, the Hurricanes will win.
Another big story is the start of the Seminoles. It looked like this was definitely going to be a down year in Tallahassee, and it still can be, but they have gotten off to a great start, winning at Clemson and at Maryland. The Terps really struggled at home in the second half, which is a red flag for people who thought they were only doing well because of their soft schedule.
This weekend is shaping up to be a really good slate of games. Let's check it out:
Saturday:
Duke at N.C. State (12:00 p.m., ESPN)
This may be the game of the year in the ACC and on paper the best chance for Duke to take a conference loss. One thing that should play into N.C. State's favor is the absence of Ryan Kelly, who was injured in the Clemson game. The Blue Devils proved late last year that missing Kelly is a huge factor. N.C. State struggled a bit with Georgia Tech before rolling at the end. They will definitely be pumped up for this one.
Virginia at Clemson (12:00 p.m., ACC Network)
This is a matchup of teams that really struggled in their last games. Clemson only scored 10 points in the first half against Duke, while Virginia was down big at Wake before staging a late rally. Virginia is the team that is more capable of playing to a high level, but they haven't proven that they can play well on the road. Clemson really needs to win this one to gain some confidence.
North Carolina at Florida State (2:00 p.m., ESPN)
This game last year certainly went in the way of the Seminoles. We'll see how much UNC is out to prove after two uninspiring losses. Florida State has been much improved recently, but don't assume that Florida State is going to roll. They are still very capable of laying an egg. The key will be 3 point shooting. If North Carolina can hit some outside shots, they can win.
Virginia Tech at Georgia Tech (2:30 p.m., ACC Network)
Both teams have been really struggling, each with different problems. For Georgia Tech, it's offense, and for Virginia Tech, it's defense. The Hokies have looked like clearly the worst team in the league in their past several games, never more evident than in their double-digit home loss to Boston College. Georgia Tech hung well with N.C. State until it got close to the end. They should win at home.
Boston College at Wake Forest (4:00 p.m., FSN)
The matchup of the preseason bottom two teams in the league. Both were able to get wins during the week, which they will be looking to build on. Don't expect a lot of offense in this one. The difference will be whether Boston College can get some scoring from anyone other than Ryan Anderson.
Sunday:
Maryland at Miami (8:00 p.m., ESPNU)
I really like this game. Maryland will be upset coming off that blown game against Florida State. Miami is riding high from its win in Chapel Hill. Alex Len will be key in this one. Without Reggie Johnson's big body in there for Miami, Len should be able to dominate inside. If he doesn't, and if Miami hits their 3s, the Hurricanes will win.
Monday, January 07, 2013
First ACC Weekend Recap
The first weekend of ACC play is in the books, and for the most part it was a good weekend for the teams that are supposed to be in the upper echelon in the conference. Duke and Maryland both got easy home wins against lesser teams. N.C. State did not play well but was able to escape with a road win at Boston College. And Miami had perhaps the most impressive performance of the weekend, winning by 13 on the road against Georgia Tech. That game was actually more of a blowout than the final score indicated.
A couple of other games may have been minor surprises. Florida State controlled their game in the first half at Clemson, and then were able to hold on despite some questionable play in the last minute. And North Carolina really struggled down the stretch at UVA, letting the Cavaliers go on a 10-0 run late in that one.
On paper, the weekday game schedule is pretty weak. But there could be some close games:
Tuesday:
Clemson at Duke (7:00 p.m., ESPNU)
Clemson is staring at an 0-2 start in the conference, as they have to go to Cameron Indoor and try to compete with the Blue Devils. Duke coasted to a pretty easy win in their home opener, and have another favorable game before their big matchup with N.C. State this coming weekend.
Wednesday:
Boston College at Virginia Tech (7:00 p.m., FSN)
If there is an opportunity for Boston College to sneak a road win, this is it. They didn't win a game on the road in conference last year, but came very close a few times. Virginia Tech is reeling right now, not being able to stop anyone on defense. Boston College played well at times against N.C. State but just couldn't hit the shots in the final minute. I expect this one to come down to the wire.
Florida State at Maryland (8:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Florida State played pretty well at Clemson, but winning up at College Park is a much stiffer challenge. Maryland looks like the second best team in the conference right now, with a lot of depth. If the Seminoles can win the three point percentage, they can win. But I expect the Terps to come out on top in this one.
Georgia Tech at N.C. State (8:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Georgia Tech was able to pull off the surprising road upset in this game last year. But they have to come up with a lot more offense to top the Wolfpack. The Yellow Jackets are capable of putting together a good offensive game, and they may be able to catch the Wolfpack looking ahead to their big game against Duke. But this one is all about N.C. State. If they come out with a focused effort, they won't lose.
Virginia at Wake Forest (9:00 p.m., FSN)
This is an interesting week for Virginia. They are coming off a big win over North Carolina, their first in John Paul Jones Arena. Now they have two winnable road games against Wake Forest and Clemson. For Wake, this is a big game to get some confidence. If they are patient against Virginia's pack line defense they have a chance.
Thursday:
Miami at North Carolina (7:00 p.m., ESPN)
This is the best game of the week and a big one for both teams. The schedulers did Miami no favors. Look at their first five conference games: @GT, @UNC, vs. Maryland, @BC, vs. Duke. They need to win as many games as they can in this tough early stretch to build that NCAA Tournament resume. For North Carolina, it's about getting back to Tar Heel basketball. They did not look good at all against Virginia, and right now Miami is the more talented team, even without Reggie Johnson. If the Heels don't win this one, they are no lock to make the NCAA Tournament. Their next two are at Florida State and home against Maryland. An 0-4 start is not a reach.
A couple of other games may have been minor surprises. Florida State controlled their game in the first half at Clemson, and then were able to hold on despite some questionable play in the last minute. And North Carolina really struggled down the stretch at UVA, letting the Cavaliers go on a 10-0 run late in that one.
On paper, the weekday game schedule is pretty weak. But there could be some close games:
Tuesday:
Clemson at Duke (7:00 p.m., ESPNU)
Clemson is staring at an 0-2 start in the conference, as they have to go to Cameron Indoor and try to compete with the Blue Devils. Duke coasted to a pretty easy win in their home opener, and have another favorable game before their big matchup with N.C. State this coming weekend.
Wednesday:
Boston College at Virginia Tech (7:00 p.m., FSN)
If there is an opportunity for Boston College to sneak a road win, this is it. They didn't win a game on the road in conference last year, but came very close a few times. Virginia Tech is reeling right now, not being able to stop anyone on defense. Boston College played well at times against N.C. State but just couldn't hit the shots in the final minute. I expect this one to come down to the wire.
Florida State at Maryland (8:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Florida State played pretty well at Clemson, but winning up at College Park is a much stiffer challenge. Maryland looks like the second best team in the conference right now, with a lot of depth. If the Seminoles can win the three point percentage, they can win. But I expect the Terps to come out on top in this one.
Georgia Tech at N.C. State (8:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Georgia Tech was able to pull off the surprising road upset in this game last year. But they have to come up with a lot more offense to top the Wolfpack. The Yellow Jackets are capable of putting together a good offensive game, and they may be able to catch the Wolfpack looking ahead to their big game against Duke. But this one is all about N.C. State. If they come out with a focused effort, they won't lose.
Virginia at Wake Forest (9:00 p.m., FSN)
This is an interesting week for Virginia. They are coming off a big win over North Carolina, their first in John Paul Jones Arena. Now they have two winnable road games against Wake Forest and Clemson. For Wake, this is a big game to get some confidence. If they are patient against Virginia's pack line defense they have a chance.
Thursday:
Miami at North Carolina (7:00 p.m., ESPN)
This is the best game of the week and a big one for both teams. The schedulers did Miami no favors. Look at their first five conference games: @GT, @UNC, vs. Maryland, @BC, vs. Duke. They need to win as many games as they can in this tough early stretch to build that NCAA Tournament resume. For North Carolina, it's about getting back to Tar Heel basketball. They did not look good at all against Virginia, and right now Miami is the more talented team, even without Reggie Johnson. If the Heels don't win this one, they are no lock to make the NCAA Tournament. Their next two are at Florida State and home against Maryland. An 0-4 start is not a reach.
Friday, January 04, 2013
Preview: ACC Conference Play Starts
After what seems like a long non-conference season, we are finally about to start conference play. For some teams, it is a chance to build on positive momentum. And for others it's a chance to get momentum back. Remember, this is the first year the ACC has gone to 18 games in conference play. And there are some interesting matchups for the first weekend:
Saturday:
Virginia Tech at Maryland (12:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Virginia Tech has been the tale of two teams so far. The one that started 7-0 and beat Iowa and Oklahoma State, and the one that has gone 2-4 since with the last two losses by a combined 62 points. Maryland has coasted since an opening loss to Kentucky, albeit against the weakest schedule of any ACC team. The momentum certainly favors Maryland, and so does the home court. If the Hokies get behind early, it could be a blowout.
Wake Forest at Duke (12:00 p.m., ESPNU)
This is certainly a mismatch on paper. The best team in the conference at home against arguably the worst team. Wake has played a little better of late, coming off their best win of the year against Xavier. Duke will look to have a better home season than they did last year, and should start with a win. I can see Wake holding tough for maybe a half, but Duke should win by 20.
Miami at Georgia Tech (2:30 p.m., ACC Network)
I don't think many people at this point in the season would think Georgia Tech would have a better record than Miami. Part of that is schedule, but Miami has lost two of their last three after losing Reggie Johnson to an injury. They are still in the conversation for the NCAA Tournament, so games like this one are key. Georgia Tech has won six in a row against mostly underwhelming competition. Interesting stat: in their last five games, the Yellow Jackets have scored 73-75 points each time.
Florida State at Clemson (4:00 p.m., FSN)
Florida State has been the biggest disappointment in the ACC so far, with their latest loss coming at Auburn. They need a strong showing to avoid a road loss to Clemson. The Tigers haven't been world beaters so far, but have the home court advantage, which should swing the momentum in this one. This could be an ugly game to watch.
N.C. State at Boston College (4:00 p.m., ESPN2)
At first glance this looks like a N.C. State romp. Yes, the Wolfpack have played much better recently, winners of seven straight. But they could face a challenge in Chestnut Hill. Boston College can lull them to sleep with some 3 pointers and a less than hostile crowd. And the Eagles have won five in a row. But if N.C. State loses this game, that will certainly be an upset.
Sunday:
North Carolina at Virginia (8:00 p.m., ESPNU)
The weekly ESPNU Sunday night game gets a later start this week, giving the UVA fans a chance to watch the Redskins. This is a very intriguing game. North Carolina put together their best win of the year last week against UNLV, but they have been very inconsistent. Virginia won eight in a row before a really bad loss at a neutral site to Old Dominion. Carolina definitely has the edge in talent, but if Coach Tony Bennett can get the tempo he wants Virginia has a chance to pull the mild upset.
Saturday:
Virginia Tech at Maryland (12:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Virginia Tech has been the tale of two teams so far. The one that started 7-0 and beat Iowa and Oklahoma State, and the one that has gone 2-4 since with the last two losses by a combined 62 points. Maryland has coasted since an opening loss to Kentucky, albeit against the weakest schedule of any ACC team. The momentum certainly favors Maryland, and so does the home court. If the Hokies get behind early, it could be a blowout.
Wake Forest at Duke (12:00 p.m., ESPNU)
This is certainly a mismatch on paper. The best team in the conference at home against arguably the worst team. Wake has played a little better of late, coming off their best win of the year against Xavier. Duke will look to have a better home season than they did last year, and should start with a win. I can see Wake holding tough for maybe a half, but Duke should win by 20.
Miami at Georgia Tech (2:30 p.m., ACC Network)
I don't think many people at this point in the season would think Georgia Tech would have a better record than Miami. Part of that is schedule, but Miami has lost two of their last three after losing Reggie Johnson to an injury. They are still in the conversation for the NCAA Tournament, so games like this one are key. Georgia Tech has won six in a row against mostly underwhelming competition. Interesting stat: in their last five games, the Yellow Jackets have scored 73-75 points each time.
Florida State at Clemson (4:00 p.m., FSN)
Florida State has been the biggest disappointment in the ACC so far, with their latest loss coming at Auburn. They need a strong showing to avoid a road loss to Clemson. The Tigers haven't been world beaters so far, but have the home court advantage, which should swing the momentum in this one. This could be an ugly game to watch.
N.C. State at Boston College (4:00 p.m., ESPN2)
At first glance this looks like a N.C. State romp. Yes, the Wolfpack have played much better recently, winners of seven straight. But they could face a challenge in Chestnut Hill. Boston College can lull them to sleep with some 3 pointers and a less than hostile crowd. And the Eagles have won five in a row. But if N.C. State loses this game, that will certainly be an upset.
Sunday:
North Carolina at Virginia (8:00 p.m., ESPNU)
The weekly ESPNU Sunday night game gets a later start this week, giving the UVA fans a chance to watch the Redskins. This is a very intriguing game. North Carolina put together their best win of the year last week against UNLV, but they have been very inconsistent. Virginia won eight in a row before a really bad loss at a neutral site to Old Dominion. Carolina definitely has the edge in talent, but if Coach Tony Bennett can get the tempo he wants Virginia has a chance to pull the mild upset.
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