We link to lots of J.P.’s stuff, because he’s interesting and fair in his coverage and analysis. Today, we have another reason to link him, as he has NC State as his pre-season #24 team:
24. N.C. State (6-7): If the Pack can figure out the start, you know Tom O’Brien has the closing kick to win the Atlantic Division. It also helps to have the best QB (Russell Wilson) in the ACC.
I do agree that pre-season rankings aren’t worth a warm bucket of spit (fun historical note: this phrase was first used to describe the Vice Presidency, with “Cactus Jack” Garner actually using the word “piss” – but the media of the time cleaned it up to refer to a less profane bodily fluid). But it’s still nice to see the Pack recognized – and J.P. doesn’t have any other Atlantic Division teams in his Top 25.
Although I think the Pack is really a year away from ACC title contention, Giglio’s logic is solid. When nobody really stands out, bet on the best quarterback (and arguably, State has the two best QBs in the Atlantic Division). This morning’s N&O also singles Wilson out for what I agree is his best trait – impeccable judgment:
“He has a real respect for the value of the football in this game,” said Bible, State’s offensive coordinator. “I think he really appreciates what Coach [O’Brien] preaches, the advantages of not turning the ball over.”
The best might be yet to come. Wilson displayed his remarkable judgment as a first-year player, when he still didn’t understand much about opposing defenses or N.C. State’s offense.
Now he is an established starter with more film study under his belt. He is less likely to be surprised by anything that happens.
“Just slowing everything down, understanding defenses and what this play is trying to accomplish, that’s the main thing,” Wilson said.
That’s why he expects to make even more decisions that would make his father proud.
