This past weekend, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets upset the reigning ACC champion Florida State Seminoles in the opening week of the 2024 college football season. Here are the implications this game could have on the rest of the ACC this season:
1. Florida State is searching for an identity
Defensively, it was anticipated to be a tough game for the Seminoles, as they faced a Georgia Tech offense that ranked in the top three in the country last season and led the ACC in passing touchdowns.
However, Georgia Tech’s defense was one of the worst in 2023. Early on, it appeared the Seminoles would capitalize on this with a touchdown on their opening drive of the season. However, their offense stalled, finishing with just 21 points—six of which came from field goals of 51 and 59 yards.
Florida State ran a very simple offensive scheme throughout the game. While short passes were effective, attempts downfield could not be completed.
If Florida State wants to avoid more upsets, it will need to establish a clearer offensive identity as the season progresses.
2. Clemson is the new front-runner in the ACC
Despite Clemson not having played a game yet, Florida State’s early ACC loss positions Clemson as the new favorite to win the ACC title.
If Clemson can avoid a loss against Florida State later this season, the Tigers have a strong chance of competing for the ACC Championship at the end of the season.
3. Other teams that could emerge to compete for the ACC Championship
Two other teams that could emerge as ACC contenders following Florida State's opening week loss are Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech.
Georgia Tech currently sits atop the ACC standings. If their offense remains as potent as last year, every defense in the country will face a tough test against the Yellow Jackets. The question mark for this Georgia Tech team is its defense. However, they hired a new defensive coordinator in the offseason and brought in top talent through the transfer portal. Nick Saban picked Georgia Tech as his dark horse in the ACC, and after the first week, it looks like a great selection from the legendary head coach.
Virginia Tech is another team with a strong offense heading into the 2024 season. While they haven't played yet this season, they won five of their last seven games in 2023, with a top-five offense during that stretch. If their defense has improved over the offseason, don’t be surprised to see the Hokies in the ACC Championship conversation.
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