On the Atlantic side, Boston College has 14 returning starters led by RB Montel Harris (3,600 career yards) and consensus All-America Luke Kuechly at middle linebacker. Maryland with the tough run defense and one of the league’s best QB’s in sophomore Danny O’Brien flinging it for new coach Randy Edsall, the Terrapins should be the leading contenders, but in the end it should be Florida State’s trophy.
Despite some talent loss, second-year Seminole coach Jimbo Fisher still enjoys a rather deep roster. However, it could be how the new qb-center combo of E.J. Manuel and Jacob Fahrenkrug work out. Behind them will be a steady, results-producing three man running corps led by Chris Thompson, who rushed for 845 yards last season. Defensively Bjoern Werner and Brandon Jenkins are looming ends.
Despite new starters at quarterback and running back, a talented and experienced offensive line should ease them into their positions at Virginia Tech.
The defense, with junior corner Jayron Hosley, who led the led the nation in interceptions with nine last year, and junior linebacker Bruce Taylor (6.0 sacks) should separate the Hokies from contenders like North Carolina and Miami to win the coastal division.
