Top 10 ACC Players

Author:
SI Staff
Publish date:
Aug 19, 2009

Top 10 ACC Players

Kam Chancellor

Because of his size, Chancellor's NFL future may lie at linebacker. Switching positions wouldn't be anything new; since arriving at Virginia Tech, Chancellor's seen time at quarterback, corner, rover and safety. The movement's led to some inconsistent play, but his rare combination of size and speed have overshadowed that.

Rodney Hudson

Hudson's smart and strong, but Florida State coaches make no secret of his greatest asset: consistency. In 24 games with the Seminoles, Hudson's missed just 24 assignments.

Dekoda Watson

After becoming the lone Seminole to earns All-ACC defensive honors in 2008, Watson decided to put his NFL dreams on hold and return for his senior season. His leadership, speed and power will have NFL teams lining up at season's end.

Morgan Burnett

Burnett intercepted seven passes in 2008 on his way to an All-America season. Tech coaches want him to emerge as a more vocal leader, but his instinctive play and nose for the ball make him a leader by example.

Quan Sturdivant

The general of UNC's talented linebacking corps, Sturdivant notched 122 tackles last season. Fast and agile, he will have to take on more of a leadership role this season after moving back to middle linebacker.

Russell Wilson

A two-sport star, Wilson threw for 1,955 yards last season to become the first freshman to earn All-ACC quarterback honors. Always a threat to run, Wilson's also a smart and accurate passer; he threw just one interception in 2008.

Marvin Austin

Austin still needs to hone his technique, but he possesses a lethal combination of size and athleticism. He notched 38 tackles off the line as a 19-year-old in 2008, and should emerge as a game-changing defender this season thanks to improved conditioning.

Jason Worilds

Worilds exploded onto the scene in his first full year as a starter, notching 18.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks. Explosive off the line and a menace in open space, he should excel even more this year now that shoulder issues are behind him.

C.J. Spiller

What Spiller lacks in bulk, he makes up for in quickness, elusiveness and versatility. He's amassed 2,335 yards and 30 scores over three seasons despite sharing carries, but should emerge as the nation's most dangerous back now that James Davis has departed.

Jonathan Dwyer

After leading the league in rushing, averaging seven yards per carry and notching nine 100-plus yard games, Dwyer became the first sophomore to win ACC Player of the Year honors. A hard-nosed runner, he's a perfect fit for Tech's flexbone offense.