Well here we go. It’s time to start ranking the best players in the ACC for the 2018 season. As usual we hope you enjoy the rankings.
Previous and Upcoming Rankings
Quarterbacks | Running Backs | Wide Receivers | Offensive Linemen |
Tight Ends | Defensive Linemen | Cornerbacks | Safeties | Special Teams
1) Joe Giles-Harris, Duke
SouthernPigskin calls Duke’s Joe Giles-Harris the best LB in the country in an article sent to me from @Hokiesmash_ASD. That could be true, but he is the best LB in the ACC on this list. Giles had 125 tackles in an All-ACC season last year, and has made made several pre-season All-America lists. I’ve seen as high as a projected 2nd round pick. Could he reach the 1st round?
2) Shaq Quarterman, Miami
Miami might have the best linebacking unit in the ACC, led by Shaq Quarterman. Quarterman was a 2nd team All-ACC selection last year. He’s totaled 167 tackles and 17 tackles for loss in his first two years. He’s only a junior, so the best is likely yet to come for Quarterman.
3) Michael Pinckney, Miami
Michael Pickney is the second Miami LB on this list after Shaq Quaterman. He will be junior like Quaterman, and that’s another reason why I’m so high on the Miami linebackers. They are young and talented. He was a freshman All-American 2 years, who is only beginning to touch the surface of his potential. Last season he was the first Miami player to be name a Walter Camp player of the week since 2004 for his defensive work in a game against Syracuse in October.
4) Kendall Joseph, Clemson
Senior Kendall Joseph has been a steady force at LB for Clemson for awhile. Playing behind an All-Star defensive line, he can get lost in the shuffle, but he is a quality player that had 96 tackles last year. Expect Joseph to push for 1st or 2nd team All-ACC honors this year. If fellow LB Tre Lamar can stay healthy, the Tigers could push Miami for the ACC’s top LB unit.
5) Oluwaseun Idowu, Pittsburgh
If you don’t know Oluwaseun Idowu, you should. He received some All-ACC votes in 2017 after a 94 tackle season at Pitt. He also made the All-ACC Academic football team. Idowu is rangy player that has good instincts. He has a chance to be a future pro.
