ACC Football 2017: Biggest x-factor for every team

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 09: Clemson Tigers defensive end Clelin Ferrell (99) is blocked by Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Cam Robinson (74) during the 2017 College Football National Championship Game between the Clemson Tigers and Alabama Crimson Tide on January 9, 2017, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. Clemson defeated Alabama 35-31. (Photo by Mark LoMoglio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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October 22, 2016: Syracuse Orange quarterback Eric Dungey (2) launches a pass during the first half of the game between the Syracuse Orange and Boston College Eagles at Alumni Stadium in Chestnut Hill, MA. The Orange would beat the Eagles 28-20. (Photo by John Kavouris/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Syracuse – Eric Dungey

Eric Dungey put together a productive season for Syracuse in his second year as the starter. Now that he is heading into his junior year, the quarterback’s development likely triggers the improvement for the Orange. Dungey made a huge step forward from his first collegiate season so there is a ton of excitement heading into the 2017 season.

Dungey is a duel threat quarterback by nature but did complete 64.8 percent of his throws a year ago. Dungey, 6-foot-3, threw for 15 touchdowns while also adding six on the ground as well. Coming off of back-to-back 4-8 seasons, this feels like the year Syracuse can right the ship to go closer to .500 this year.

The good news is Dungey did improve under the new coaching staff which means the Orange could be moving in the right direction. Dungey was named to the Manning Award watch list prior to the season so the eye balls are squarely set on Dungey with higher expectations set for the program. Coach Dino Barbers loves the progression he is seeing out of his young quarterback.

“When you look at him at times last year I thought there was an uneasiness about him, and I think there’s some peace to him right now that he’s coming back into this thing,” Babers said, via Syracuse.com.

Unfortunately, Dungey will lose his top target this season in Amba Etta-Tawo. The former collegiate wide receiver is now in camp with the Jaguars after catching 94 passes for 1,482 yards and 14 touchdowns. Dungey will have to take a step forward without his trusted go to target. That part makes him the biggest x-factor.

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