Well here we go. It’s time to start ranking the best players in the ACC for the 2021 season.
Check out the latest edition Lindy’s College Football where @TalkinACCSports (myself) with a big assist from @Hokiesmash_ASD player research helped put together these lists and the Lindy’s All-ACC team with @mattzemek.
As usual we hope you enjoy the rankings.
Previous and Upcoming Rankings
Quarterbacks | Running Backs | Wide Receivers | Tight Ends |
Defensive Linemen | Linebackers | Cornerbacks | Safeties | Special Teams
1) Alec Lindstrom, Boston College
Another set of top ACC player rankings, and more Boston College players making the list. The offensive line which is the ACC’s best going into 2021 is anchored by center Alex Lindstrom. PFF ranks Linstrom as one of the top 10 interior offensive linemen returning this season. The 6-4 290 lb Lindstrom has been projected anywhere from a 3rd to 6th round NFL pick.
2) Zion Johnson, Boston College
Zion Johnson is another NFL ready offensive linemen that Boston College features. He’s also projected as high as a 3rd round NFL pick. He was no-star Davidson transfer who’s turned himself into one of the best lineman in the ACC and college football. The 6-3 310 lb player is another rock along the BC offensive line.
3) Lecitus Smith, Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech got good news in the spring when Lecitus Smith decided to return for his Redshirt Senior season. The 2020 6-3 220 LB Honorable Mention All-ACC offensive lineman is has been described as “man-mover” and is a definite NFL prospect. With NFL Bound Christian Darrisaw gone, Smith becomes the leader of the Virginia Tech offensive line.
4) Jordan McFadden, Clemson
With stars like QB Trevor Lawrence and RB Travis Etienne no longer in TigerTown, Clemson will need to rely heavily on good offensive line play. That will start with veteran offensive lineman Jordan McFadden who was a 12 game starter in 2020. At the pro-level he could move from tackle to guard, and is considered an NFL prospect who is projected to be drafted in the later rounds.
5) Ben Petrula, Boston College
Along with Zion Johnson of Boston College, Ben Petrula also of Boston College both appeared on our top 5 ACC Linemen going into the 2020 season. That’s three BC lineman on this list in 2021, and Tyler Vrabel of BC could have easily made the list as well. The versatile lineman has played center, guard, and tackled at BC. That versatility makes Petrila an intriguing NFL prospect. If you haven’t noticed the BC offensive line is LOADED.