ACC Football Power Rankings, Week 12: Notre Dame holds at No. 1

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Nov 14, 2020; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels running back Javonte Williams (25) scores a touchdown as Wake Forest Demon Deacons defensive backs Caelen Carson (29) and Nick Andersen (45) defend in the fourth quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

5. North Carolina State Wolfpack (5-3)

Last week, the Wolfpack had a convincing 38-22 win over the Florida State Seminoles in what was deemed the “transfer quarterback revenge game”. Florida State transfer Bailey Hockman had a good game throwing for 265 yards and three touchdowns. This week, the ‘Pack have an interesting game against the No. 21 Liberty Flames.

The Flames and quarterback Malik Willis will be a problem for a Wolfpack defense that has given up 178 rushing yards and 33 points per game. This could be one of those “whoever has the ball last” games.

4. North Carolina Tar Heels (6-2)

The North Carolina Tar Heels survived another track meet this season, outlasting the Wake Forest Demon Deacons 59-53 in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels are not afraid of high scoring affairs. UNC defeated Virginia Tech 59-46 and lost to Virginia 44-41. None of these games went to overtime either. This week, the Tar Heels have to find some defense if they hope to upset No. 2 Notre Dame.

The Irish want to establish the run early and often. North Carolina is not great against the run. Both Florida State and Wake Forest had success running against the Tar Heel. This could be another track meet or a long day for UNC.

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