By Southern Pigskin Staff
SouthernPigskin.com

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Pre-spring picks for the 2011 season in the ACC Atlantic.

1. Florida State – The Seminoles will field one of the ACC’s most athletic defenses, but their most impressive collection of talent might be at the skill positions. Part-time starter E.J. Manuel takes over full-time and steps into a big spotlight at quarterback for the defending division champions.

2. Clemson – There are big names to replace but the athleticism on this roster is impressive. A lot will depend on the play of Tajh Boyd at quarterback. Andre Ellington and DeAndre Hopkins are speedy skill players and the Tigers have recruited very well on defense lately.

3. Boston College – Defensively the Eagles have become an institution of sorts. With All-American Luke Kuechly leading the way at linebacker, BC will again be quite good. The offense returns All-ACC tailback Montel Harris and has a young quarterback in Chase Rettig.

4. Maryland – Sophomore Danny O’Brien is the ACC’s best quarterback. He will give season-long consistency to the offense. Tackle Joe Vellano and safety Kenny Tate return to the lead the defense. Randy Edsall takes over for the ‘Terps.

5. NC State – The return of running back Mustafa Greene, receiver T.J. Graham and tight end George Bryan shold help Mike Glennon under center. The defense returns eight starters and will have a veteran secondary. If Glennon shows efficiency this spring, State may rank higher soon.

6. Wake Forest – Jim Grobe will focs on improving the defense this spring as the Deacons allowed a league-worst 35 points per game in 2010. Some playmakers must step up in the secondary and another pass rusher would be nice.