T2. Georgia Tech
Predicted record: 9-3 Conf. record: 6-2
Best Player: WR Calvin Johnson, Jr.
Offense - Nine starters return including four on the line, QB Reggie Ball, and possible all-everything receiver Calvin Johnson. Now there has to be more production after averaging a mere 349 yards and 18.5 points per game. This wasn't an explosive attack relying on a steady running game and the stout defense to win games, but that needs to change a bit. The first order of business is to find a second receiver to take the pressure off Johnson, and Ball, who isn't the most accurate passer around, can't lock in on his number one target on every pass play. Replacing top runner P.J. Daniels won't be hard with Tashard Choice and Rashaun Grant sure to shine behind a line that'll be among the ACC's best.
Defense - It's not fair to call last year's defense a disappointment considering it only allowed 318 yards and 20 points per game, but it wasn't consistent and didn't get enough from the pass defense. The secondary should be the major issue early on this season with only one returning starter and a shake up needed after losing starting safety Joe Gaston this spring to a knee injury. The starting front seven should be solid with the line the strength thanks to a good mix of quickness, experience and depth getting a big boost from the return of tackle Darryl Richard from a knee injury. The linebacking corps needs to find a few reliable backups, but the starting trio of KaMichael Hall, Philip Wheeler and Gary Guyton will be excellent.
[b]This season will be a success if