Spring Practice Preview: Wake Forest

Oct. 11 at Wake Forest should be an interesting game. The Noles will be eager to exact revenge on the Demon Deacons after last year's defeat to them 30-0.

Top returner- QB Riley Skinner: All he did as a redshirt freshman was lead Wake Forest to its first Atlantic Coast Conference championship in 35 years. Skinner's numbers might not jump out at you, but his leadership and poise helped the Demon Deacons continually win close games last year.

Player on the verge-RB Micah Andrews: Andrews has rushed for at least 142 yards in three separate games during his career, but he has never had an extended period as a featured back. Andrews' 2006 season ended in mid-September when he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. If Andrews returns to full strength, you can add his name to the ACC's long list of outstanding running backs.

Impact newcomer- RB Josh Adams: This former three-star prospect gives the Deacons insurance if Andrews doesn't return to form. The redshirt freshman earned raves for his performance on the practice field last season.

The big question- How will the Deacons retool their defense?: Wake Forest won the ACC last year primarily because of an opportunistic defense loaded with upperclassmen. The Deacons now must fill the leadership void created by the departures of all-conference linebacker Jon Abbate and defensive back Josh Gattis.

Spring practice starting date: March 20

Spring game: April 14