Clemson Barely Mentioned Among These Analysts’ Potential ACC Title Contenders

As ACC Media Days wrapped up in Charlotte last week, a few ACC Network analysts weighed in on which teams they can see potentially winning the conference this season.

Only one of those analysts — former Virginia Tech standout and longtime NFL wideout Eddie Royal — mentioned Clemson, albeit briefly. He also brought up Virginia Tech and Miami.

Former Georgia and Miami head coach Mark Richt believes this is the Hurricanes’ year to win the ACC Championship, while former Florida State quarterback EJ Manuel thinks FSU and Miami have a good shot, as well as Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech.

Here’s what Richt, Manuel and Royal had to say regarding potential ACC title contenders:

Richt : “I’ve got mine. It’s ‘The U’… I think it’s real this time. There’s been years where we were hoping, but unless there’s injuries that riddle the team, I think they’re going to be in the game at least.”

Manuel : “I like (Miami’s) chances. I like Florida State’s chances. I like Georgia Tech, I think Georgia Tech is gonna wake some people up as well. I know that’s the kickoff game (FSU vs. Georgia Tech in Ireland on Aug. 24). But I also really like Virginia Tech. I really do. I think Virginia Tech and the pieces that they have… (Cornerback) Dorian Strong up here talking to us, APR (defensive lineman Antwaun Powell-Ryland) was talking to us, (quarterback) Kyron Drones walking around, stern-faced, locked in. I really think those three teams have a good shot.”

Royal : “I agree. I like Clemson. I like Virginia Tech and Miami – seeing (quarterback) Cam Ward just oozing confidence, and that’s what Miami needs.”

Of the teams mentioned above, Clemson will take on two of them during the 2024 regular season. The Tigers will play at Florida State on Oct. 5 and also have a road matchup at Virginia Tech on Nov. 9.

The 2024 ACC Football Championship Game is set for 8 p.m. ET on ABC on Saturday, Dec. 7, at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. This fall will be the first featuring 17 ACC football teams, and for the second consecutive season, the game will pit the top two teams based on regular-season conference winning percentage.

Last season, Florida State captured its fifth ACC Championship Game title and its 16th ACC title overall with a 16-6 victory over Louisville.

A limited number of signed footballs from Clemson’s 2022 class are still available.  Get yours while supplies last!  Visit Clemson Variety & Frame or purchase online!