Clemson and Florida State are set to compete for the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) title as the conference returns to its normal state. Both teams have a long-standing history of success in the ACC, with a combined 24 football titles since 1991. What’s different this year is that, in the division-less conference, Clemson and Florida State could potentially face off in a league championship game in December.
The Seminoles enter the season with high expectations, led by quarterback Jordan Travis, who is a candidate for ACC player of the year and possibly even the Heisman Trophy. With a talented offensive line and Travis at the helm, Florida State is looking to have its best season since former coach Jimbo Fisher left in 2017.
On the other hand, Clemson has made some changes in its coaching staff. Coach Dabo Swinney fired offensive coordinator Brandon Streeter and brought in Garrett Riley, a young assistant coach who previously helped TCU reach the national title game. Riley’s main task is to revamp the team’s offense and develop former five-star quarterback recruit Cade Klubnik.
Although Klubnik replaced DJ Uiagalelei during the ACC title game and led the Tigers to a convincing victory over North Carolina, he struggled in a loss to Tennessee at the Orange Bowl. Riley’s focus this spring is on simplifying the offense for Klubnik, and the team has shown improvements throughout their spring practices.
While Clemson and Florida State are the favorites to reach the championship game, other teams like North Carolina, Pitt, Duke, and North Carolina State could also pose a challenge. North Carolina, led by quarterback Drake Maye, will need to improve defensively after giving up the most points and yards per game in the league last season. Miami, under the leadership of new coach Mario Cristobal, aims to bounce back from a disappointing five-win season.
The ACC also sees some changes in its coaching staff, with Georgia Tech’s Brent Key and Louisville’s Jeff Brohm joining as new head coaches. Key previously served as an assistant for the Yellow Jackets and took on the role of interim coach after Geoff Collins’ departure. Brohm, a former Louisville quarterback and Purdue head coach, returns to his alma mater to lead the Cardinals.
As the ACC returns to normal with traditional powerhouses like Clemson and Florida State vying for the conference championship, the football landscape in the conference promises an exciting and competitive season. The battle for the ACC title will surely be one to watch as these teams bring their best to the field.
