It’s hard to believe, but many teams have already played nearly half of their regular-season games, meaning some have emerged as legitimate contenders. In the ACC, three teams stand out as potential contenders in one of the most competitive conferences in the country: the Clemson Tigers, Miami Hurricanes, and ACC newcomer SMU Mustangs.
1. Clemson Tigers (AP No. 10)
Before the season began, many counted Clemson out as a contender not only for the national championship but for the ACC title as well.
However, this Clemson team didn’t get the memo. After a tough blowout loss to Georgia in their season opener, they’ve bounced back with four straight wins and find themselves ranked inside the AP Top 10.
Clemson has dominated on both sides of the ball during this streak, surprising many with their high-scoring offense. Over their last four games, the Tigers are averaging 48.5 points per game, and quarterback Cade Klubnik has been one of the most improved players in the country. Klubnik has thrown for 1,219 yards this season, along with 14 passing touchdowns, four rushing touchdowns, and only two interceptions.
The defense has been equally impressive, forcing six turnovers over the last two weeks. Clemson has proven to be a legitimate threat this season, and they might just come away with the ACC title.
2. Miami Hurricanes (AP No. 6)
The Miami Hurricanes are a team often surrounded by preseason hype that they struggle to live up to. But 2024 could be the year Miami reclaims ACC dominance.
Miami is currently 6-0 and, through their first six games, has boasted one of the most dominant offenses in the country. After breezing through their first four opponents — Florida, Florida A&M, Ball State, and South Florida — Miami had to fight for their last two wins, overcoming large deficits in the fourth quarter.
Two weeks ago, Miami hosted Virginia Tech for a Friday night showdown. The Hurricanes, heavy favorites, trailed 34-24 in the fourth quarter but clawed their way back for a 38-34 win.
This past Saturday, Miami traveled to face ACC newcomer Cal in a College GameDay matchup. Down 38-18 in the fourth quarter, the Hurricanes once again staged a dramatic comeback, securing a 39-38 victory.
While their last two wins haven’t come easy, Miami has shown resilience, and right now, they are the favorite to win the ACC.
3. SMU Mustangs (AP No. 25)
This past offseason, the ACC welcomed SMU to the prestigious conference. While SMU had enjoyed success in the AAC, many doubted whether that would translate to the ACC.
Through their first six games, the Mustangs are 5-1 and 2-0 in their new conference, with their lone loss coming to BYU, currently ranked No. 14 in the nation.
Despite a tough schedule, SMU has cruised past opponents with dominating wins over Nevada, Houston Christian, TCU, and Florida State, averaging 49 points per game in those contests.
Last weekend, they faced their toughest test yet: a road matchup against No. 22 Louisville. SMU came away with a hard-fought 34-27 victory.
SMU has officially entered the conversation for the ACC championship.
Welcome to ACC football, SMU Mustangs.
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