Five ACC Football Players Ready to Explode Onto the Scene in 2010

Aug 1, 2010
Anthony Dayton

College Football Predictions: 5 top ACC players - flickr.com

In 2010 there will be dozens of overlooked college football players throughout the country who will explode onto the scene. Some will be playing in the ACC.

Every year there are preseason all conference teams selected and every year a good number of those selections change by the time the season ends. For instance Miami's Brandon Harris was not chosen for any preseason honors, yet at season's end he was named as a first team All-ACC defensive back. Below are five players from the ACC who could find themselves in a similar situation as Harris.

Sean Renfree, Sophomore Quarterback for the Duke Blue Devils

Renfree has some big shoes to fill as he will be replacing one of the school's best quarterbacks ever. However, Renfree saw some action last season as a true freshman and completed over 65% of his passes. Additionally, in 2008, Renfree was one of the most highly touted players ever signed by Duke as he chose the Blue Devils over many Pac-10 teams. Renfree did suffer a knee injury last season that kept him out of spring practice; however, he is expected to be fully recovered in time for August.

Jarmon Fortson, Junior Wide Receiver for the Florida State Seminoles

Unfortunately for Fortson, he is mostly known for the dropped pass on the last play of the game against the Miami Hurricanes. However, Fortson put together a solid season as he hauled in 45 receptions for over 600 yards and four touchdowns. Look for bigger things from Fortson this season as he will have a healthy Christian Ponder throwing him the football.

Damien Berry, Senior Running Back for the Miami Hurricanes

During the first four games, converted safety Damien Berry was stuck at the end of the bench and did not get his first carry until the fifth game of the season. However, his playing time steadily increased and by season's end he finished second in rushing and scored eight touchdowns. With Javaris James graduated and Craig Cooper recovering from a nasty knee injury suffered during the Champs Sports Bowl, Berry's powerful running style could earn him a spot in the starting lineup and a place on the All-ACC team.

Erik Highsmith, Sophomore Wide Receiver for the North Carolina Tarheels

With Greg Little's eligibility up in the air due to possible dealings with a sports agent, Erik Highsmith is poised for a big year. Last year as a freshman two of his 37 receptions went for touchdowns as he also posted back to back 100 yard games. If T.J. Yates can bounce back after a sub-par season, Highsmith not only will have a chance to challenge for All-ACC honors, but could become the conference's top receiver.

Jayron Hosley, Sophomore Defensive Back for the Virginia Tech Hokies

Last season as a true Freshman, Hosley showed confidence as he received playing time in Virginia Tech's nickel and dime packages, as well as returned punts. This season Hosley looks to lock down the starting cornerback position opposite senior Rashad Carmichael. Hosley has plenty of athleticism as he was also a highly recruited quarterback in high school. While he may not have great size at 5'10, 172 lbs, he has the skill and instincts to be the next great Hokie defensive back.

Anthony Dayton - Tony Dayton is an Operations Analyst by profession at one of the country's largest banking institutions. Tony also spends his time serving ...