In all the talk of major conference realignment, the Atlantic Coastal Conference has been nothing more than an afterthought since the month of May.  Let’s not forget the ACC is still a 12 team conference with some big name programs and an automatic BCS bid, to boot.  While few suitors came calling during the widespread expansion talk, the ACC isn’t completely irrelevant, at least not yet.   Here’s a look at a few schools most likely to take advantage of that guaranteed trip to the BCS.

  1. Florida State – The Seminoles might not be the year in year out title contender they were in the late 90s, new coach Jimbo Fisher’s unit is looking to start a new decade with ACC dominance.  Senior QB Chris Ponder will give the ‘Noles a captain at the helm but this talented group is not without its questions.  The once feared Florida State D was flimsy last year, even against weak competition.  Mark Stoops, son of Oklahoma’s head man, has been brought in to help the disappointing defense return to glory.
  2. Miami – Expect a big jump for the Hurricanes this season; Randy Shannon’s job might depend on it.  A 21-17 record with the type of talent Miami brings in isn’t going to cut it in Coral Gables for much longer.  On the bright side, the defense should be solid if not spectacular looking to improve on a stellar 2009 effort, while the offensive side of the ball is led by emerging star Jacory Harris.  Entering his Junior year, the Canes big play quarterback finally has a little bit of seasoning, which Miami fans hope will transition into fewer mistakes.
  3. Boston College – If Jimmy Valvano taught you anything at all, never underestimate the power of human emotion.   BC should be an inspired squad this season with the return of 2008 ACC Defensive Player of the Year, linebacker Mark Herzlich, having successfully returned from a life-threatening bout with cancer.  The Eagles have proven to be a resilient team over the past years, maintaining moderate success even with the loss of Herzlich and the departure of head coach Jeff Jagodzinski.  With the deck finally stacked in their favor, look for the same gritty effort and a few more wins up in Boston.