ESPN.com: NCF - Spring recap: N.C. State

2000 overall record: 8-4
Conference record: 4-4 (5th)

Returning starters
Offense: 7
Defense: 7
Kickers: 1

2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Ray Robinson* (788 yds)
Passing: Philip Rivers* (3,054 yds)
Receiving: Koren Robinson (1,061 yds)
Tackles: Levar Fisher* (166)
Sacks: Brian Jamison* (5.5)
Interceptions: Corey Lyons* (3)

What's new

QB Philip Rivers must adjust to the loss of Norm Chow and Koren Robinson.
Marty Galbraith is the Pack's new offensive coordinator, replacing Norm Chow. Before serving as offensive line coach last season in Raleigh, Galbraith was calling the plays at Marshall for Chad Pennington's record-setting offense. You can be sure a similar system will be in place to help Philip Rivers put up big numbers again.
Battling it out
With the early departure of Adrian Wilson to the NFL, immediate help is needed at strong safety. The leading candidates are J.J. Jones -- a true freshman who enrolled in January -- and Julius Patterson. Jones should be the guy if he continues to improve. At receiver, one spot should belong to Bryan Peterson, while about six others are in the running for playing time, including a heralded incoming group of freshmen
Eye catcher: LB Brian Jamison
Jamison moved from defensive end this spring and played well both inside and outside. Amato likes him a lot at linebacker, and he will likely end up on the strong side. Jamison led the team with eight tackles in the spring game.
Budding star: LB Levar Fisher
Who was the nation's leading tackler in 2000? If you guessed someone other than Levar Fisher, you were incorrect. It's not likely he can improve on his statistics in the coming season, but he should have everyone's attention going into it. He should receive consideration for major awards in 2001.

Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.

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