Here is the first of what will be several conference picks. This Super Early pick is based on returning starters, talent levels, and scheduling.

ACC Atlantic:
1. Florida State. With 6 starters returning on offense, and 9 on defense, the 'Noles are my pick to win here. The schedule is certainly doable, but games against Alabama in Atlanta, at Clemson and at Florida could keep them out of the playoffs.

2. Clemson. The big question is how the offense will respond with the loss of QB Watson and 5 other starters. The defense returns 7 players. The schedule is interesting, with a critical home game early against Auburn, followed by a game at Louisville the next week.

Others: Louisville keeps their Heisman winning QB, but only 3 others on offense. They lost their last 3 games last season. N.C. State returns 9 starters on offense including their QB and 8 on defense. The schedule is favorable. This may be HC Doeren last chance to produce.

ACC Central:
1. Miami. HC Richt gets 7 back on offense and 8 back of defense from a 9 win team. They need to find a new QB. The game at Florida State may be a preview of the CC game. The rest of the schedule is very doable. Many expect big things from the 'Canes this season.

2. Georgia Tech. Another team that returns 16 starters (8 and 8) but is looking for a new QB. Johnson's team won 6 out of their last 7 games last season. Games at UCF, Miami, Clemson, and Duke make for a rather challenging schedule.

Others: Duke returns 7 starters on offense including their QB and 5 on defense. They hit the wall, losing 5 out of their last 6 games last season. The schedule is challenging. I can't see HC Cutcliff having another 4-8 season. Boston College returns 8 starters on offense and 7 on defense. They need to find a new QB. Their D held the opposition to 14 or less in 6 of their games. With a very soft non-con schedule, do not be surprised to see the Eagles back in a bowl game this season.