Inside the ACC: Key Storylines for the 2024 Football Season
The 2024 ACC football season is poised to be one of the most intriguing and unpredictable in recent memory. With conference realignment reshaping the landscape and perennial powerhouses like Florida State and Clemson aiming to assert their dominance, this season promises high-stakes competition.
The addition of new teams and the varying strength of schedules across the conference adds further complexity to what is already set to be a thrilling race for the ACC title.
Florida State: A Season of Redemption and Ambition
Mike Norvell’s tenure at Florida State has been anything but uneventful. Starting with a rocky phase marked by disappointing losses and struggles to find consistency, the Seminoles have since undergone a dramatic transformation.
The turning point came midway through the 2022 season when an improving defense and an explosive offense led by quarterback Jordan Travis propelled the team to six consecutive victories, culminating in a 10-3 finish.
However, Florida State had a heartbreaking exclusion from the College Football Playoff in 2023 due to several key factors, including their weaker strength of schedule, fewer games against Top 25 opponents, less impressive wins, and facing opponents with losing records.
Continuity on the offensive line is a cornerstone of Florida State’s 2024 campaign. Three key starters return, including All-ACC left tackle Darius Washington, providing a strong foundation for the team. They are bolstered by new additions like Florida’s former starting left guard Richie Leonard IV and Alabama transfer guard Terrence Ferguson II.
While only one other offensive starter, tight end Kyle Morlock, returns, the team boasts a mix of experienced transfers and talented young players ready to step up. The secondary, led by corners Fentrell Cypress II and Azareye’h Thomas, along with safety Shyheim Brown, is expected to be one of the team’s strengths.
On the defensive side, the Seminoles face significant turnover, particularly in the front six, where five of last year’s top seven linemen and both starting linebackers are no longer with the team. Despite this, defensive coordinator Adam Fuller is confident in the abilities of standout players like end Patrick Payton, 318-pound tackle Joshua Farmer, and linebacker DJ Lundy.
The team also welcomed four line transfers to reinforce the defensive front. With a dynamite secondary and a retooled defensive line, Florida State aims to continue its upward trajectory under Fuller’s guidance.
Clemson: A Test of Tradition and Innovation
Clemson’s approach to roster building under Dabo Swinney has been distinct, if not controversial. Eschewing the transfer portal in favor of in-house development, Swinney has built a program that prioritizes culture and continuity.
Over the last three seasons, Clemson’s projections at Versus Sports Simulator reflect the team’s consistent performance, even as they navigate a period of transition. The Tigers’ 2023 season, while solid, was the worst in 12 years, raising questions about whether Swinney’s methods can sustain success in the rapidly evolving college football landscape.
The hiring of TCU’s Garrett Riley as offensive coordinator in 2023 marked a significant shift in Clemson’s approach, particularly in light of the struggles they faced in 2021-22.
With five-star sophomore quarterback Cade Klubnik now firmly in command, and key players like leading rusher Phil Mafah and tight end Jake Briningstool returning, the Tigers are poised to improve on last season’s performance. However, the lack of big-play potential remains a concern, with the team ranking 109th nationally in 20-plus-yard gains per game in 2023.
Clemson’s defense, once a hallmark of the program, has seen a decline in performance over the past two seasons under coordinator Wes Goodwin. However, the 2024 season offers a fresh opportunity for the unit to rebound, bolstered by a crop of exciting young players.
Sophomores like defensive end T.J. Parker, tackle Peter Woods, and corners Khalil Barnes and Avieon Terrell are expected to make significant contributions. Despite some growing pains in 2023, the defense still ranked second in passing success rate allowed, showcasing its potential to return to elite status.
Louisville’s Milestone
The University of Louisville secured its first-ever appearance in the ACC Championship Game thanks to a 4-0 record in one-score finishes in conference games last season, marking a significant milestone in the program’s history.
This achievement underscores the Cardinals’ ability to perform under pressure and bodes well for their prospects in the 2024 season. Louisville’s success was driven by a balanced team performance, with critical contributions from both sides of the ball, making them a team to watch in the upcoming season.
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Virginia Tech: A Resurgent Force in the ACC
Virginia Tech’s 2023 season was a tale of two halves. After a dismal start, head coach Brent Pry orchestrated a remarkable turnaround.
The team won five of their last seven games, a resurgence that was driven by a combination of tactical adjustments and improved player performance, setting the stage for a promising 2024 campaign.
Heading into the 2024 season, Virginia Tech boasts one of the nation’s top five rankings in returning production. This continuity, particularly on the defensive side, is expected to be a significant advantage as the Hokies look to build on their late-season momentum. Key players like linebacker Alan Tisdale and safety Nasir Peoples will be instrumental in anchoring a defense that showed marked improvement in the latter half of 2023.
Miami: Talent vs. Expectations
The Miami Hurricanes have long been one of college football’s most enigmatic teams. Blessed with an abundance of talent, they have often failed to live up to expectations. In 2024, Miami enters the ACC race with high hopes, fueled by a roster loaded with potential. However, the challenge for head coach Mario Cristobal will be to translate that talent into consistent performance on the field, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Miami’s 2024 schedule is filled with opportunities to make a statement, with pivotal matchups against Louisville and Florida State that could determine their fate in the ACC title race. The Hurricanes’ ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial in determining whether they can finally break through and contend for a conference championship.
With a mix of experienced veterans and dynamic young players, Miami has the tools to succeed, but consistency will be key.
Key Matchups to Watch in the 2024 ACC Season
SMU’s return to power-conference football for the first time since 1995 is highlighted by a marquee matchup against Florida State on September 28. This game will be a litmus test for Rhett Lashlee’s Mustangs, who are eager to prove they belong in the ACC. For Florida State, this contest offers an early opportunity to establish dominance and set the tone for the rest of the season.
One of the most anticipated games of the season, the October 5 clash between Clemson and Florida State has historically decided the ACC champion. With both teams vying for supremacy, this matchup will have significant implications for the conference title race. The winner will not only gain a crucial edge in the standings but also send a statement to the rest of the ACC.
Louisville’s relatively light conference schedule gets a significant test when Miami comes to town on October 19. This game could serve as an eliminator of sorts, with both teams needing a win to keep their ACC title hopes alive. The outcome will likely hinge on which team can better handle the pressure and execute in key moments.
The rivalry between Florida State and Miami has been one of the most storied in college football, with streaks of dominance shifting between the two programs over the years. As of late, Florida State has had the upper hand, winning the last three meetings. However, Miami will be determined to turn the tide in 2024, making this matchup on October 26 one of the season’s must-watch games.
Lane Stadium will be rocking on November 9 when Virginia Tech hosts Clemson in what could be a pivotal game for both teams. The Hokies haven’t hosted a ranked opponent in a high-stakes environment since 2018, but with their late-season surge in 2023 and a strong returning core, they could be primed for an upset. Clemson, on the other hand, will be looking to solidify their position at the top of the ACC standings.
Conference Realignment and Its Impact on the ACC
The ACC, like many other conferences, is undergoing significant changes due to realignment. The addition of teams from Texas and California, along with the departure of some traditional powerhouses, has reshaped the conference’s identity. With 17 teams now in the fold, the ACC faces a new set of challenges, including a more diverse range of opponents and the logistical complexities of cross-country travel.
The variation in schedule strengths within the ACC is another factor that could influence the outcome of the 2024 season. Georgia Tech, for example, has a tough schedule, while other teams like SMU and Cal face much lighter slates. This disparity creates an uneven playing field and adds an extra layer of unpredictability to the conference race.
The Outlook for the 2024 ACC Title Race
Florida State and Clemson enter the 2024 season as the clear favorites to win the ACC according to Versus Sports Simulator. It reflects the general consensus that these two teams are the class of the conference. Both programs have the talent and experience to make deep runs, but they will face stiff competition from a group of challengers waiting in the wings.
Beyond Florida State and Clemson, there are several teams capable of making a surprise run at the ACC title. Virginia Tech, with its strong returning production, and Miami, with its abundance of talent, are two of the most intriguing contenders. Additionally, Louisville’s momentum from their 2023 success and a favorable schedule make them a dark horse in the title race.
These teams, along with others like NC State and North Carolina, add depth and excitement to what promises to be a competitive ACC season.
A Season of Uncertainty and Opportunity
The 2024 ACC football season is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. With conference realignment, varying schedule strengths, and a mix of established powerhouses and emerging contenders, the race for the ACC title is wide open.
Florida State and Clemson may be the favorites, but they will face stiff challenges from a host of other teams eager to make their mark. As the season unfolds, every game will carry significant weight, and the eventual champion will have truly earned their place at the top of the conference.
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