ACC Football Power Rankings, Week 9: Did Notre Dame convince anyone?
By Dante Pryor
5. Boston College Eagles (4-2, 3-2)
The story of Boston College’s demise was greatly exaggerated. After getting trounced 40-14 by Virginia Tech, the Eagles rebounded against Georgia Tech. Not only did the Eagles fly against the Yellow Jackets, but they also found a running game. After not rushing for 100 yards in a single game this season, the Eagles broke out for 264 yards on the ground.
This could be a result of Boston College getting the scheme or Georgia Tech’s bad defense. The Eagles should hope for the latter because they need all the offense they can muster if they want any chance against Clemson this weekend. Clemson will get a fight for at least one half the way the Eagles have played this season.
4. North Carolina Tar Heels (4-1, 4-1)
The Tar Heels rebounded with a 48-21 victory over North Carolina State after being upset by Florid State a week prior. Despite their 4-1 record, the Tar Heels have yet to play their best game. Sam Howell has been inconsistent this season, and Dazz Newsome — UNC’s best receiver — has yet to find his footing.
The defense has had its moments this season, but the ‘Heels have yet to put a total game together. UNC dominated Syracuse, but it’s, well, Syracuse. Despite the score, the Wolfpack had 358 yards passing. The Tar Heels play two of the worst teams in the conference back-to-back (Virginia and Duke) so maybe we’ll see a complete game in one of those two outings.
3. Miami Hurricanes (5-1, 4-1)
The Hurricanes have firmly cemented themselves as the third-best team in the conference. North Carolina is not far behind, but the ‘Canes and ‘Heels can sort that out on Dec. 5. The last three games have shown a lot about Miami. They are not ready for Clemson (and they should not be). The rebound win against Pitt demonstrated maturity as a team that was not there a year ago.
Their ugly win against Virginia is a lesson in perseverance. Programs that grow have to be able to win sloppy games. This might sound like a Miami apologist post; it is. Who doesn’t have a soft spot for “The U?” There is a long way to go before they are ready for Clemson, but D’Eriq King steadying the offense and the defense playing consistently well are encouraging signs for Miami fans.