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Countdown to Kickoff: 36 Days...
Atlantic Division
Clemson Tigers
Just short of the top 10 in the preseason polls, and possibly the most talented team in the conference. This is a definite no-brainer. Verdict: Contender.
Florida State Seminoles
Outside of replacing EJ Manuel at QB, this team has extremely strong prospects this year again. They finished last year ranked #10, and are definitely the most talented team in the conference not named "Clemson" (who's better there is up for debate). Verdict: Contender
North Carolina State Wolfpack
NC State is one of those teams that doesn't have a major stockpile of talent, but definitely makes the most of what they have. They have a considerable amount of talent to work with nonetheless, but with a new head coach there will likely be growing pains. That said, it's the same coach that took Northern Illinois to the Orange Bowl, so big things could be in store... Verdict: Contender
Syracuse Orange
Syracuse is not to be underestimated. Aside from UConn, they were the only team to beat Louisville last year. Their defense is inconsistent but can be really impressive at times, and they're pretty hard to beat at home. We'll see how they pan out this year. Verdict: Jury's Out
Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Take them seriously enough to not get yourself embarrassed, but don't worry about them over the course of a season. 7 wins would be a pretty good season for these guys. Verdict: Pretenders
Maryland Terrapins
Making a bowl game would be a big deal for this team. Aside from Stefon Diggs, they're not particularly talented and generally don't have much going for them. Verdict: Pretenders
Boston College Eagles
A team that can't run the ball (119th nationally in 2012) and can't score (111th nationally) is going to have a hard time winning games. It'll take a lot to get these guys to a bowl game. Verdict: Pretenders
Do you agree or disagree with my picks? What are your thoughts on Syracuse as they enter the league?