2024 ACC Season Preview

The ACC is one of many Power 4 conferences experiencing significant realignment issues as college football enters a new era. They add three programs into the mix as two wayward Pac-12 programs enter and an AAC stalwart joins. Two traditional powers are also looking to escape due to the escalating fiscal differences between the P2 and their P4 colleagues. There are many new changes on the field because of the portal, NIL, and new coaching staff. What are some of the changes? Can Florida State continue its ascent back into a national powerhouse? Will Clemson and its unique portal strategy work out for Dabo? Which new blood will surprise the old guard with their entries into a historic league?

Note: All games are listed on Saturday unless otherwise noted

Boston College (@BCFootball)

There’s a new sheriff in town after former head coach Jeff Hafley made a shock move to be the Packers defensive coordinator. Veteran coach Bill O’Brien takes over the program after years of serving in the NFL. He does have an interesting and exciting young quarterback in Thomas Castellanos. Next to the up-and-coming star passer is 2023 leading rusher Kye Robichaux and transfer Treshaun Ward. BOB brought in transfer receivers Jayden McGowan from Vanderbilt and Jerand Bradley from Texas Tech to help also. Defensively, the Eagles have draftable talent across all three levels, including EDGE Donovan Ezeiraku. They do have to replace Hula Bowl standout corner Elijah Jones and OL Christian Mahogany.

The schedule isn’t easy. They kick off their season against national power Florida State before facing two tough opponents back to back. Missouri and Michigan State will be stern tests for BOB early on. They will fight for bowl eligibility if they can survive the first month with a winning or a .500 record.

Predicted Record: 5-7

California (@Calfootball)

Cal joins Stanford as the other castaway tossed a liferaft after the Pac-12’s implosion. However, some intriguing talents are returning, like star RB Jayden Ott and QB Fernando Martinez. Transfer receivers Mikey Matthews (Utah) and Tobias Merriweather (Notre Dame) will help the duo put up points. Interestingly, the traditionally stout defense has slid down a peg from its heyday after transforming into an offensive show. HC Justin Wilcox has been in Berkeley for a long time, and job security is a growing concern.

A finicky September awaits the Golden Bears as they travel to Auburn and Tallahassee in a span of three weeks. Another interesting schedule quirk is that they play The Game against Stanford and travel to Dallas to play SMU in consecutive weeks to finish the season. The schedule and offensive talent on hand might be enough to compete for bowl eligibility in their new home. Teams will certainly be adjusting to them to say the least.

Predicted Record: 6-6

Clemson (@ClemsonFB)

After a brief run at the top, the regional power has been a sleeping giant on the national stage for several seasons. Dabo and his “unique” portal strategy needs a cultural reset. The quarterback position has been a sore spot since Trevor Lawrence left. Cade Klubnik has been anointed, but he’s been inconsistent in starting his Tigers career. Clemson’s success hinges on Klubnik’s development as a top passer. The Tigers have bookend tackles (Tristan Leigh and Blake Miller) to open up the running games led by all-ACC performer Phil Mafah. Defensively, they lost a lot of talent on the line to the NFL, so Peter Woods will have to step up to fill in the gaps. Safety R.J. Mickens is also back to hold the last line of defense. Linebacker Barrett Carter has solidified himself as a first-round selection.

Clemson’s schedule avoids most ACC big boys, but they must still travel to rival Florida State. The season opener against Georgia in Atlanta will be a stern test and potential season-defining contest. If they can keep it close, the schedule opens up in October and November for a possible ACC title campaign.

Predicted Record: 10-2

Duke (@DukeFOOTBALL)

Duke has a new coach after Mike Elko left for Texas A&M as Manny Diaz returns to the ACC. He previously served as the defensive coordinator for Penn State. He’s intimately familiar with the conference after serving as Miami’s head coach for several seasons. Elko left the Blue Devils in a good place but lost several prospects, such as DeWayne Carter and Graham Barton, to the NFL. Highly regarded Texas transfer Maalik Murphy takes over for Riley Leonard, who left for Notre Dame. Jaquez Moore returned to lead the running backs, while Jordan Moore returned to lead the receivers so Murphy would have weapons. Diaz must work his magic on defense, as it has been depleted due to transfers and the draft.

They can start hot against weaker opponents before proceeding to the meat of the schedule. The showdown against North Carolina looms as the biggest threat to an undefeated September. October features contests against the tougher ACC competition like Florida State, Georgia Tech, and SMU. If Diaz can wrangle some positive work from his defense, bowl eligibility should be within reach.

Predicted Record: 6-6

Florida State (@FSUFootball)

The reigning ACC champions return to action to seek vengeance for a historic playoff snub by the committee last season. As is usually the case, they have to reload after the bulk of the team that turned around their fortunes left for the pros. Early-round selections like Jared Verse, Braden Fiske, Keon Coleman, and Renardo Green must be replaced. Fortunately for the Noles, they have recruited very well under Mike Norvell. The former Clemson star via Oregon State passer D.J. Uiagalelei transferred in to take over for the legendary Jordan Travis. FSU’s offensive line retains some talent and transfers like Richie Leonard (Florida) and TJ Ferguson (Alabama). Not to be outdone by their offensive counterparts, the defense has some highly draftable talents like EDGE Patrick Payton, Georgia transfer EDGE Marvin Jones, Jr, CB Fentrell Cypress, and CB Azareye’h Thomas.

Florida State’s 2024 schedule has the potential to be one of the toughest in college football. They have to start quickly as a home date against eternal rival Clemson looms in October. Traveling to Miami and Notre Dame with a sandwich game against UNC is a critical stretch. Mike Norvell has the talent to make a run to Charlotte again despite heavy personnel losses to the pro ranks.

Predicted Record: 10-2

Georgia Tech (@GeorgiaTechFB)

Georgia Tech enters its second full season under head coach Brent Key as a darkhorse contender in the conference. He’s done a solid job rebuilding the roster, headlined by former Texas A&M transfer quarterback Haynes King. Jamal Haynes and Trey Cooley lead the running back room. The Ramblin’ Wreck also has a solid offensive line to build around. Defensively, they have solid core players like LaMiles Brooks and Clayton Powell-Lee to accompany USC transfer EDGE Romello Heights. Depth has also been upgraded through the portal, so there’s some potential.

However, Tech’s schedule is particularly unkind even with the positive vibes emanating from the state capitol. They open the season in Dublin against Florida State and have five consecutive games against ACC contenders. Playing at UNC, hosting Notre Dame, traveling to Virginia Tech, hosting Miami, and hosting NC State consecutively is a tough ask. Not to mention the annual instate Clean Ol’ Fashioned Hate rivalry against powerhouse Georgia.

Predicted Record: 5-7

Louisville (@LouisvilleFB)

What can the head coach, Jeff Brohm, do for an encore after a stellar 2023 season that saw a berth in the conference title game happen? He has the talent on the roster to make a spirited run again in 2024. Texas Tech transfer quarterback Tyler Shough is in town after an injury-marred career. The Cardinals lost leading rushers Isaac Guerendo and Jahwar Jordan but did gain Miami transfer Donald Chaney. They did their best work in landing impact players like Ja’Corey Brooks (Alabama), Caulin Lacey (South Alabama), and TE Mark Redman (SDSU) to help Shough. Defensively, they bring back star EDGE Ashton Gillotte. Louisville’s defense was solid last season under Ron English and should be better this season.

Louisville’s schedule isn’t demanding because they avoid most conference contenders but must travel to South Bend. They also play Clemson and Miami in a three-week span so that it will be a deciding run for them in late October and early November. Commonwealth Cup rival Kentucky looms on Thanksgiving weekend as well. With the talent and coaching acumen on hand, they have the potential to compete for an ACC title.

Predicted Record: 9-3

Miami (@CanesFootball)

The Hurricanes have been impressive in the transfer portal for several seasons. If the coaching staff can avoid brain farts of monumental proportions like last season against Georgia Tech, they have a roster capable of winning the ACC. Miami is led by the electrifying Cam Ward, who transferred in from Washington State. Their offensive line has all-ACC potential as well. The running back room got a tremendous boost with the addition of former Oregon State runner Damien Martinez. Defensively, they did a lot of good work in the portal, adding talents like Tyler Baron, Simeon Barrow, and Isaiah Taylor. EDGE Rueben Bain (2026) and LB Francisco Mauigoa also have great pro potential.

The schedule sets up nicely for a run to the conference championship after a sneakily tricky September. They must travel to the swamp during the season opener, but the rest of the month is manageable. Playing Louisville before the mega showdown with eternal blood rival Florida State will define the 2024 season.

Predicted Record: 10-2

NC State (@PackFootball)

The Wolfpack are in business with a talented roster and a fun quarterback who can get them where they need to go. Dave Doeren has a fun offense led by former Coastal Carolina star Grayson McCall. Duke transfer Jordan Waters, and Oklahoma transfer Hollywood Smothers boosted the running back room. The offensive line includes all-ACC potential talents like left tackle Anthony Belton. Defensively, they have to replace do-it-all and NFL draftee Payton Wilson. Devin Vann leads the defensive front and is on the radar as a draftable prospect.

NC State’s schedule is fun but has several tough ones, including a neutral date against Tennessee and traveling to Clemson. They could be set for a raucous season if they win one or both. November presents home and away dates against instate rivals Duke and UNC. The Wolfpack are talented enough and have the schedule to compete for a conference title game berth.

Predicted Record: 8-4

North Carolina (@UNCFootball)

UNC has a talented team returning despite the tremendous losses of Tez Walker and Drake Maye to the NFL. Former LSU/A&M signal caller Max Johnson transfers in to take charge of the quarterback room. He will be flanked by one of the best running backs in the nation, Omarion Hampton. The Heels’ secondary will strengthen with standouts like Alijah Huzzie, Antavious Lane, transfer Jakeen Harris, and Marcus Allen. Senior receiver J.J. Jones will attempt to replace Walker’s production. Kevin Hester, a defensive tackle, is the rock in the middle of the defense.

The Heels should get off to a fast start in September with no major concerns except for the opener against Minnesota and a tricky game against James Madison. October is pillow soft with a bye-week sprinkled in. They face the Seminoles to kick off November, a team Mack Brown has failed to beat in his coaching tenure. With their talent and schedule, a run to Charlotte could be in the offing.

Predicted Record: 9-3

Pittsburgh (@Pitt_FB)

The Panthers have trended downwards recently under Pat Narduzzi’s watch. The defense has generally been solid, but the offense has been stagnant, to put it mildly. Quarterback Nate Yarnell is competing with Alabama transfer Eli Holstein. Productive receiver Konata Mumpfield returns to bolster the skill positions alongside running back Rodney Hammond. Tight end Gavin Bartholemew returns and is one of the best tight ends in the conference. Narduzzi’s defense will need significant improvement to help them compete for a berth in Charlotte.

Pitt’s schedule is manageable outside of a tough November with Clemson, Louisville, and BC in consecutive weeks. Interestingly, they play their nonconference games consecutively before beginning ACC play. Bowl eligibility should be the bare minimum for Coach Narduzzi’s men.

Predicted Record: 7-5

SMU (@SMUFB)

Another ACC invitee, hailing from the Metroplex, is looking to make some noise with a veteran roster. They are led by an intriguing quarterback by the name of Preston Stone. The offensive line is chock full of experienced talent as well. As for the running back position, it’s a three-headed hydra of Jaylan Knighton, L.J. Johnson, and Camar Wheaton. Defensively, they will deploy a legion of line talent led by Elijah Roberts and Arkansas transfer Anthony Booker. Former Georgia lineman Jonathan Jefferson buttresses as a hybrid tackle. The talent and coaching magic is there for the Mustangs to contend for an ACC title immediately.

The schedule is relatively light as they avoid Clemson, UNC, and Miami, but they must host FSU and travel to Louisville consecutively. A closing stretch run features easier opponents, so a run to Charlotte might be in the cards.

Predicted Record: 7-5

Stanford (@StanfordFball)

Stanford is making its way to the ACC after the destruction of the Pac-12, which left it in tatters. Head coach Troy Taylor has had a season to evaluate his program and adjust. Due to the strict academic requirements, getting talent in Palo Alto will always be a struggle. A potential first-round selection, receiver Elic Ayomanor, leads the Cardinal offensively. Stanford’s defense horrifically failed them last season, so improvement must be the order of the day.

Coach Taylor must get off to a fast start to fight for a bowl game. They face a tough road with three consecutive contests against contenders like Virginia Tech, Clemson, and Notre Dame. November eases up somewhat with The Game against Cal and FBS patsy SJSU. Expect a rough transition to the ACC for the Cardinal in 2024.

Predicted Record: 4-8

Syracuse (@CuseFootball)

There was a new coach for the Orange when they dismissed Dino Babers after eight seasons. After serving as defensive backs coach at Georgia, Fran Brown comes over to the Carrier Dome. He’s known as an elite recruiter who did some positive work after he was hired. He has extensive ties to the region to get going quickly. Former Ohio State passer Kyle McCord transferred to the Orange after a relatively scathing 2023. Defensively, Brown and his staff did the most work in the portal. Talents like Fadil Diggs, Dion Wilson, Jr, and Duce Chestnut were brought in to bolster the stop unit. Marlowe Wax returns as the leading tackler and is a draft-eligible prospect.

The schedule is relatively manageable through September, with four winnable contests. Syracuse avoids all the big boys in the ACC in 2024. Fighting for bowl eligibility would be a significant success for Coach Brown’s men.

Predicted Record: 5-7

Virginia (@UVAFootball)

It’s been a long and hard road for head coach Tony Elliott and his Wahoos. He’s had to deal with a lack of on-field success and tragic circumstances off of it. No program should have to endure a tragedy of that immense scale. Unfortunately for Elliott, the talent level in Charlottesville hasn’t improved drastically to turn around the program. Former Notre Dame speedster Chris Tyree, Jr did transfer in to boost Anthony Colandrea or Tony Muskett. The defense will need some improvement, however.

Combined with a lack of competitive talent, the schedule is also a gauntlet to navigate. The October slate is tough with dates against Boston College, Louisville, Clemson, and UNC. November isn’t a piece of cake, either. Coach Elliott could pass the eye test this season, but the schedule doesn’t provide much leeway.

Predicted Record: 3-9

Virginia Tech (@HokiesFB)

Virginia Tech enters the third season of the Brent Pry era, ready to make some noise in a revamped ACC. They have a loaded roster with a star quarterback, Kyron Drones, who could rise on the draft boards. He leads a veteran receiver corps that features Ali Jennings and Jaylin Lane. Star EDGE Antwaun Powell-Ryland and Duke transfer Aeneas Peebles lead the defense. Much like Bud Foster’s defenses of yore, the Hokies have talent at every level to make things hairy for opposing offenses.

The schedule is favorable as they avoid the usual suspects, but games against Clemson and Miami will go a long way. September should be a winning start until the historically significant showdown at Miami. Hosting a tough Rutgers squad could be troublesome the week before the game. They will compete for a conference title berth if they can avoid the tripwires in October.

Predicted Record: 8-4

Wake Forest (@WakeFB)

The Demon Deacons struggled to a 4-8 record last season after years of competing with the upper echelon of the ACC. Has the Dave Clawson magic run out for the sleepy private school in North Carolina? OC Warren Ruggiano captains an aggravating “slow mesh” offense again, with a new signal caller at the helm. The well-traveled Hank Bachmeier transferred in from Louisiana Tech after spending some time at Boise State before. Wake has a veteran offensive line, but that can be a bad omen, as they gave up a lot of sacks last year. The defense lost cornerback Caelan Carson to the draft but returned another draftable prospect, Jasheen Davis.

Schedule-wise, it isn’t too daunting, as they miss most big guns, so bowl eligibility should be within reach. November will be a brutal run against ACC contenders like UNC, Miami, and Duke. With this group, the ceiling should be seven wins.

Predicted Record: 5-7