In the mesmerizing dance of athleticism that marked Week 11 in ACC football, outstanding performances unfolded like a kaleidoscope of skill and determination. The ACC Football Players of the Week, celebrated for their dazzling feats, emerged from the crucible of competition, leaving an indelible mark on the gridiron narrative.
Quarterback Glory ACC football,: Kyron Drones, Virginia Tech
In a spectacle of precision and prowess, Kyron Drones, the maestro from Pearland, Texas, orchestrated Virginia Tech’s triumph over Boston College. Completing 12-of-17 passes for 219 yards and two touchdowns, Drones led his team to a resounding 44-28 victory, extinguishing the Eagles’ five-game winning streak. His dual-threat mastery was evident as he rushed 20 times for a staggering 135 yards, accumulating 354 yards of total offense. A remarkable display, earning Drones his second conference award this season.
Dual Dominance: Omarion Hampton, North Carolina, and Dan Villari, Syracuse
Omarion Hampton, the relentless running back from Clayton, N.C., showcased his prowess with 169 yards on 31 carries, coupled with a touchdown. His performance in North Carolina’s thrilling 47-45 double-overtime win over Duke solidified his status as the ACC’s leading rusher, tallying 1,236 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in 10 games this season.
In a surprising twist, Dan Villari, known more for his tight end prowess, etched his name in Syracuse’s history. Setting a new record for rushing yards by a tight end, Villari galloped for 154 yards on 17 carries, securing a touchdown and contributing to Syracuse’s 392 rushing yards in their triumph over Pitt at Yankee Stadium.
Airborne Artistry: Jacolby George, Miami
In a dazzling aerial display, Jacolby George soared to new heights for Miami. Amassing a career-high 153 yards on five catches, including two touchdowns, George played a pivotal role in Miami’s road game against No. 4 Florida State. With a career-long 85-yard touchdown reception, George proved to be the catalyst, propelling Miami to striking distance. A well-deserved second weekly award for the Florida native.
Frontline Force: Christopher Bleich, Syracuse
Christopher Bleich, the linchpin of Syracuse’s offensive line, earned his accolade by grading out as the top offensive lineman. Paving the way for a formidable ground assault that amassed 392 yards in a victory over Pitt at Yankee Stadium, Bleich’s impact was felt as three Syracuse rushers surpassed the 100-yard mark, a feat not witnessed since 1997.
Defensive Virtuosos: Ashton Gillotte, Louisville, and Kalen DeLoach, Florida State
Ashton Gillotte, the defensive luminary from Boca Raton, Fla., orchestrated a defensive symphony for Louisville. Accumulating 1.5 sacks, bringing his season total to 10, Gillotte’s disruptive presence, including 7.0 tackles, 2.0 tackles-for-loss, and a crucial quarterback hurry, secured Louisville’s victory over Virginia.
Kalen DeLoach, the linebacker virtuoso from Savannah, Ga., orchestrated a defensive masterpiece for Florida State. Leading the charge with 10 tackles, 2.0 sacks, and 2.0 tackles-for-loss in a crucial win over Miami, DeLoach showcased his prowess on third down, including a pivotal 10-yard loss that ended with a missed 51-yard field goal.
Interception Elegance: Dorian Strong, Virginia Tech, and Shelton Lewis, Clemson
Dorian Strong, the cornerback extraordinaire from Upper Marlboro, Md., painted a masterpiece in Virginia Tech’s 44-28 win over Boston College. Registering two interceptions, Strong set the tone with a game-changing interception on the Eagles’ first play from scrimmage, marking the first multi-interception game of his career.
In a stunning debut, Shelton Lewis, the cornerback sensation from Stockbridge, Ga., showcased his prowess in his first career start for Clemson. Recording four pass breakups and a spectacular 46-yard interception return for a touchdown, Lewis played a pivotal role in Clemson’s win over Georgia Tech, contributing to the school’s interception return record.
Precision in the Kicking Realm: Noah Burnette, North Carolina
Noah Burnette, the precision maestro from Raleigh, N.C., etched his name in the annals of UNC history. Tying the UNC record with six made field goals in a single game, including the game-tying field goal that propelled the game into double-overtime, Burnette’s accuracy has been a cornerstone for North Carolina, connecting on 18-of-19 field goals this season.
In the symphony of ACC football excellence, these players have composed a resounding chapter in the ongoing saga of gridiron brilliance.
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