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ACC Football: Newcomers who’ll have the biggest impact in 2022

By Dante Pryor

Dec 4, 2021; Charlotte, NC, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) holds up the championship trophy as head coach Pat Narduzzi looks on after winning the ACC championship game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2021; Charlotte, NC, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) holds up the championship trophy as head coach Pat Narduzzi looks on after winning the ACC championship game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Pitt quarterback David Beville, former Greenville High standout (17), celebrates with quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) after he threw a touchdown pass to receiver Jordan Addison (3) during the second quarter at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Saturday, October 23, 2021.
Pitt quarterback David Beville, former Greenville High standout (17), celebrates with quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) after he threw a touchdown pass to receiver Jordan Addison (3) during the second quarter at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Saturday, October 23, 2021. /

14. Pitt Panthers: Transfer, Kedon Slovis (USC):

The departure of Kenny Pickett to the NFL and the transfer of former Oklahoma quarterback Caleb Williams to USC opened the door for Kedon Slovis to come to Pitt. Slovis decided to cross the Mississippi and come to the East Coast to continue playing football.

Slovis instantly upgrades the quarterback room, and he’ll have weapons around him. Leading receiver Jordan Addison returns after a 100-reception season. All three of last season’s leading rushers return. It will be interesting to see how Slovis fits new offensive coordinator Frank Cignetti’s system.

13. Wake Forest: Transfer, Kobie Turner  (Richmond):

Incoming four-star freshman Demond Claiborne gets an honorable mention here. Claiborne is an instant upgrade, though the running back room is crowded. The defensive line is where the Demon Deacons need talent and depth.

Turner, who turned down Virginia Tech, added both elements to the Wake Forest defensive line. The Demon Deacons lose Miles Fox and Luji Vilain to the NFL Draft and need to plug those holes. Turner gives Wake Forest versatility along the defensive line.

The Richmond transfer played primarily on the inside but got off the ball well enough to play outside as well. Turner is stout against the run and has some pass-rush skills on the interior as either a three-technique or playing over the center.

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