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Updated: August 18, 5:18 PM ET NC State offense may be ACC's best By Gregg Doyel Special to ESPN.com |
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NC State Wolfpack
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2002 overall record: 11-3 Conference record: 5-3 Returning starters: Offense: 7, Defense: 5, Kicker/Punter: 2 2002 statistical leaders (* - returners) Rushing: T.A. McLendon* (1,101 yds) Passing: Philip Rivers* (3,353 yds) Receiving: Jerricho Cotchery* (1,192 yds) Tackles: Dantonio Burnette (144) Sacks: Dantonio Burnette & Shawn Price (9) Interceptions: Rod Johnson (4) Outlook: With an offense featuring the only trio in ACC history to throw for 3,000 yards (Philip Rivers), run for 1,000 (T.A. McLendon) and catch for 1,000 (Jerricho Cotchery), the Wolfpack will be able to score points with anyone. With a defense that will feature an all-new starting front four, plus replacements for All-ACC MLB Dantonio Burnette and S Terrence Holt, will the Wolfpack be able to stop the best offenses in the ACC? Additionally, the Wolfpack needs improvement from P Austin Herbert (37.2 average) and K Adam Kiker (14-of-16 extra points, 5-of-7 field goals). Key game: On Sept. 13 the Wolfpack gets to see exactly how they stack up with the best of the best when they travel to Columbus, Ohio, to play defending national champion Ohio State. Win that game, and the Wolfpack is on the way to something truly special. Lose it, and the season isn't exactly over. Keep an eye on: Freshman DE Mario Williams, who graduated from high school early and reported to college for spring practice, might be the closest thing we've seen to Julius Peppers since Peppers was an All-American at North Carolina. He might not, too -- but scouts rave about his size (6-foot-6, 260 pounds) and speed (4.5 seconds for 40 yards). It's a good year if. . .: The Wolfpack have the talent, experience in key spots and depth to win the ACC title. However, three other ACC teams (Virginia, Maryland, Florida State) can say the same thing. Finishing first this season would be a huge accomplishment, but it's within the Wolfpack's reach. Gregg Doyel covers the ACC for the Charlotte Observer.
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