By Southern Pigskin Staff
SouthernPigskin.com

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

1. Virginia Tech – Though the Hokies must replace the ACC Player of the Year in Tyrod Taylor and two former 1,200-yard tailbacks, the talent waiting in the wings is exciting. Logan Thomas and David Wilson will form one of the most athletic backfield tandems in the nation. The defense of Bud Foster is always strong.

2. Miami – This team could be better than you think in year one of the Al Golden era. Limiting the mistakes of quarterback Jacory Harris will be step one. But Lamar Miller is a speed talent at tailback and the defense, as usual, has the quickness to play aggressive. The Hurricanes are a sleeper team nationally.

3. North Carolina – Bryn Renner takes over as the starting quarterback and he might have the ACC’s best collection of receivers to throw to. The defensive line should also be very good. Renner’s effectiveness in his first year as starter will largely determine just how successful this team can be this year.

4. Georgia Tech – Who knows what to expect from the Yellow Jackets after they went from winning the ACC Championship in 2009 to a losing season in 2010. The offense should be OK, even with new playmakers. The hope is that the defense moves forward in year two of the 3-4 scheme.

5. Virginia – This team needs to settle on a quarterback and Ross Metheny might be that guy. The Cavaliers must be able to run the football while the passing game develops. Four starters return along the offensive line. The defensive line will be the strength of the defense.

6. Duke – The Sean Renfree to Conner Vernon connection has proven to be very strong. That said, this defense has to show signs of improvement. Progress won’t be made until the Blue Devils show progress on that side of the football.