We've reached the end of our offensive player rankings with a look at the best Tight Ends in the ACC for 2010. A Tight End can be anything from a 6th offensive lineman to an extra receiver, so pure stats won't always tell the whole story of a Tight Ends value to a team. Who are the best one's the ACC has to offer?
Completed and Upcoming rankings.
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1) George Byran, NC State
George Byran is the ACC's best pass catching Tight End. Last year he had 40 catches for 422 yards and 6 touchdowns. He's 6-5 and 265 yards so he's a nice sized target for NC State quarterback Russell Wilson. Bryan did get into some trouble in the off-season, as he was the renter of apartment that was busted by police for marijuana. We'll have to see how coach Tom O'Brien handles this situation.
2) Zack Pianaloto, North Carolina
North Carolina's offense won't be explosive. Most of the Heels playmakers will be on defense, but Zack Pianaloto will one of North Carolina's best options of offense. That is if he can stay healthy. He's been hampered by injuries the last couple of years. When he is healthy he's a very reliable receiver. In 2009 Pianaloto had 33 receptions for 334 yards. He could have a 50 catch season if he can avoid injuries.
3) Chris Pantale, Boston College
Boston College Tight End Chris Pantale had a very nice freshman year with 25 catches for 223 yards. Pantale is 6-6 and 244 lbs so he has a solid frame to build on. Pantale is also a solid physical blocker who's only going to get better as a player. He has the talent to one day be an All-ACC player.
4) Joe Torchia, Virginia
Virginia's Joe Torchia might be the best blocking TE in the ACC. At 6-6 250 lbs he's like having an extra offensive lineman. When given the opportunity he's also shown the ability to be a good pass catcher. As a junior, Torchia had 15 receptions for 150 yards and two touchdowns. Expect new coach Mike London to make more use of the senior in the passing game.
5) Dwayne Allen, Clemson
Dwayne Allen is star in waiting for the Clemson Tigers. I think Allen has tons of potential. He's big at 6-4 and 255 lbs, and has great hands. He had 10 receptions last season playing behind Michael Palmer. Allen was 4 star top 20 TE when he committed to Clemson in 2008, and he's only a RS-sophomore.
