For 30 days, we're ranking the nation's best teams, starting at the bottom.

No. 23: North Carolina

Why I like the Tar Heels: The defensive line could be spectacular. End Robert Quinn is coming off an 11-sack season and tackle Marvin Austin will be an early pick in next year's NFL draft. The linebackers and secondary returns, led by leading tackler Quan Sturdivant and cornerbacker Kendric Burney, who had five interceptions. Starting quarterback T.J. Yates is near the top of the school's career passing list. Leading rusher Ryan Houston is back. So are the top three receivers. And four-fifths of the starting offensive line.

Why I don't: There is plenty of motivation for Butch Davis and friends after a one-point loss to North Carolina State and a two-point loss to Pitt to close the season. Or were those games signs of trouble? The Tar Heels had a tough time closing out games, losing a three-pointer to Florida State, too. Sure, Yates put up decent numbers. But he also helped the opponents with 15 interceptions against 14 touchdowns. The schedule is nasty. After opening in Atlanta against LSU, the Tar Heels play ACC favorite Georgia Tech. There is also a trip to Rutgers and a dangerous home game against East Carolina. There are trips to Miami and Florida State, plus a visit from Virginia Tech.

Tomorrow: No. 22

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