The ACC kicks off its preseason media days next week, which means we’re closing in on fall camp around the league. With that in mind, we’re looking ahead to the biggest questions coaches are likely to field at the ACC Kickoff and predicting the answers we’re likely to hear.
Next up, Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi.
Question: How much more comfortable are you entering Year 2 as a head coach?
How we think he’ll answer: I said the same thing last year: Coach (Mark) Dantonio did such a terrific job in helping me prepare for this seat, from making me answer to you media guys, to giving me more day-to-day responsibilities. So I felt great about it last year and I feel great about it this year.
How we wish he’d answer: Narduzzi is a straight shooter, so there is usually little difference between how we think he’ll answer a question and how we wish he would. And yes, he actually has thanked Dantonio in the past for making him face the media -- and yes, that fits in just nicely with how us in the media wish he would answer such a question.
Question: What’s the passing game plan now without Tyler Boyd?
How we think he’ll answer: We’re excited about the progress Dontez Ford, Zach Challingsworth and some of the other guys made this spring, but there’s no question, it will be a collective effort. Luckily for us we have a returning starting quarterback in Nate Peterman who is a great decision-maker, and we have a new coordinator in Matt Canada who has set high expectations for this group.
How we wish he’d answer: Tyler caught 91 passes last year. The next five guys combined for 89 catches. Luckily we have the best offensive line in the ACC and can rely on our running game.
Question: James Conner: Toughest player in the ACC this year, or toughest player in the country?
How we think he’ll answer: He’s unbelievable. The guy was a regular at spring practices after his chemo treatments, and right after beating cancer he was in the weight room with our guys like nothing happened. He and Arthur Ray -- a cancer survivor we had back at Michigan State -- are in leagues of their own.
How we wish he’d answer: How many league players of the year do you see who have fought through knee surgery and cancer and come out on the other end smiling? Thought so.