The events of Week 13 of college football have given the ACC a significant boost. With three ACC teams now holding realistic playoff hopes, the path for two bids seems clearer than it has been in previous seasons. However, not all is sunshine and rainbows; poor Florida State can attest to the challenges that lie ahead. Let’s dive into our weekly power rankings to assess how each team is faring as we approach the end of the season.
ACC Power Rankings for Week 14
#1 Miami (10-1)
Miami is in the driver’s seat, heading into a crucial matchup against Syracuse. The Hurricanes control their own destiny: a win guarantees them a spot in the ACC title game. The stakes are high, as even a close loss in the championship could still see them reach the playoffs. But for now, the focus is clear—just win.
#2 SMU (10-1)
SMU has clinched a spot in the league title game and their continued success could pave the way for a second ACC team in the playoff picture. If Miami and SMU both finish with 11-1 records and face off for the title, there’s a real chance both could make the playoff field. They host California this week, and with their current momentum, they should have little trouble securing another victory.
#3 Clemson (9-2)
Clemson finds itself in a precarious position, hoping for a little luck this week. They face a tough South Carolina team in a game that could go either way. A victory is essential, but they also need Miami to lose to have a shot at the ACC title game. ESPN’s FPI gives them a 23.9% chance of making the playoffs, but their path is anything but straightforward.
#4 Duke (8-3)
Duke has had an impressive season, especially under the guidance of Manny Diaz. After holding off Virginia Tech, they now look to finish strong against Wake Forest, which should set them up for a likely 9-3 record. While some leagues may send 9-3 teams to the playoffs, the ACC’s landscape is different, making their chances slimmer.
#5 Syracuse (8-3)
The Orange have shown resilience, managing to fend off a surprisingly tough UConn team. However, their final regular-season game against Miami will be a true test. If they can pull off an upset, it would significantly enhance their postseason prospects, but it’s a tall order against a powerhouse like Miami.
#6 Louisville (7-4)
Louisville is on the rise after a commanding victory over Pittsburgh. With an eye on their upcoming rivalry game against Kentucky, an 8-4 season is within reach. While it may not be the dream season they envisioned, the Cardinals are positioning themselves well for a solid bowl game.
#7 Georgia Tech (7-4)
The Yellowjackets continue to make things interesting, pulling off a narrow win against NC State. Their upcoming rivalry game against Georgia will be a formidable challenge, but they’ve shown they can compete with the best.
#8 Pittsburgh (7-4)
After a promising 7-0 start, the Panthers have stumbled, particularly in their recent loss to Louisville. They now find themselves in a position where they could back into a 7-5 record if they don’t turn things around quickly. The season has exposed some vulnerabilities that they’ll need to address.
#9 Boston College (6-5)
Boston College secured their sixth win with a strong performance against North Carolina. They’re set to host Pitt next, which presents another opportunity to improve their bowl positioning. With a solid finish, they could make a case for a decent bowl game.
#10 North Carolina (6-5)
The Tar Heels faced a tough loss against Boston College and now look to bounce back against NC State. It’s been a mixed bag of a season for them, and while they’re not in the playoff conversation, a bowl appearance is still within reach.
#11 California (6-5)
California managed to edge out Stanford in a thrilling contest. They now face a challenging matchup against SMU, but their bowl eligibility is a positive sign for the program moving forward.
#12 Virginia Tech (5-6)
Virginia Tech’s season hangs in the balance as they prepare to face Virginia. A win is crucial for bowl eligibility, but their recent performances haven’t inspired confidence. They’ll need to rally to keep their postseason hopes alive.
#13 NC State (5-6)
The Wolfpack came up just short against Georgia Tech, leaving them on the brink of postseason exclusion. Their rivalry game against North Carolina is a must-win if they hope to extend their season.
#14 Virginia (5-6)
Virginia’s lackluster performance against SMU puts them on the cusp of bowl elimination. They face an equally desperate Virginia Tech team this week, making it a critical matchup for both squads.
#15 Wake Forest (4-7)
Wake Forest has officially been eliminated from bowl contention after a tough loss to Miami. They’ll look to finish the season strong against Duke, but the damage has already been done.
#16 Stanford (3-8)
Stanford had a chance to secure a significant win against California but faltered in the closing moments. Their struggles continue as they sit firmly at the bottom of the league.
#17 Florida State (2-9)
Florida State managed to snag a win, but it came against lowly FCS Charleston Southern. With a rivalry game against Florida on the horizon, the Seminoles are eager to close out the season on a high note.
What do you think of our Power Rankings? Share your impressions below in our comments section! The excitement of college football is palpable as we approach the final stretch of the season, and every game counts. Let’s see how these teams rise to the occasion!
