The Greek Sportsbook released the opening betting lines for the first week of college football. As most online sports bettors rejoice at the prospects of the upcoming season, The Greek continues previewing the BCS conferences. An examination of the ACC appears below.
When the arguments begin about the toughest football conferences, the ACC might be at the top of the list. With the expansions and re-alignment in the past two years, no conference has the strength top to bottom. The team to take the ACC championship gets the automatic BCS berth. And, depending on the overall season performance, that could mean a spot in the championship game.
Miami
After a disappointing season last year, the Hurricanes look to rebound. In addition, this promises to be a key season for coach Larry Coker. While QB Kyle Wright and WR Ryan Moore could be stars in the making, the Hurricanes need immediate help on the offensive line and also need a big year from TE Greg Olsen. Anything short of the ACC championship is probably a disappointment for this squad.
Georgia Tech
The Yellow Jackets attempt to take a step forward this year. The key may rest in the capable hands of Reggie Ball. Though the senior quarterback is very talented, some of his decisions are shaky at best. If Chan Gailey can get some consistency out of the entire squad, it may compete for the Coastal Division title. The weakness on the defensive side of the ball prevents this team from unseating Miami at the top of the Coastal division.
Virginia Tech
The well-coached Hokies must regroup after some distractions influenced last season's team. Frank Beamer got rid of one of the problems by dismissing Marcus Vick. Beamer, one of the top coaches in the country, will rely on solid defense and special teams until the offense gels.
North Carolina
The Tar Heels seems to be improving under John Bunting. However, it's tough to build momentum when you face a brutal schedule. They must face nine teams that are coming off bowl appearances last season. In addition, except for a September game against Furman, there isn't an easy game in the bunch. North Carolina's offense was terrible last year, but it looks improved. The defense may lose a step. A 6-6 campaign by the Tarheels would be a satisfying season for the Chapel Hill fans.
Virginia
Al Groh came into coach after success on the NFL level. He has brought in great talent and has many players who actually could play on Sundays. However, early departures may be felt on this team. Expectations are probably lower at Virginia for this year. The defense has been hit the hardest by the defections to the NFL and is in rebuilding mode. A brief down year can be expected until the talent level catches up to previous levels.
Duke
Football season to Blue Devils fans usually means its only 45 days until basketball season. After only getting one win last year, this team has some decent recruits and steady returning players. However, for the most part, the talent is not close to other ACC programs. A three-win season is possible and would probably exceed expectations.
The Greek Sportsbook is offering online betting on all BCS conference championships and regular season win totals. Miami is a worthy plus $175 favorite to win the ACC.
