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

7 of 8

Nov 7, 2020; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) talks to Tigers quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei (5) in the first quarter against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame defeated Clemson 47-40 in two overtimes. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Clemson Tigers (7-1, 6-1)

Since Clemson is going to be favored in its last three games, they are on a collision course with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the ACC title game. This is the first “must-win” Clemson has had in a long time. With one loss, the Tigers have to win the championship game in order to make the national semifinal.

The Tigers are now a team that hinges its success on winning national titles. Just making a New Year’s bowl is not enough at Clemson. By the time the championship game comes around, the Tigers will be at full strength — barring any complications due to COVID-19. With Trevor Lawrence at the helm of the offense, the Tigers are sure to be favored.

The Tigers began the season rolling everyone they played including a 73-7 drubbing of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. There has been some chinks in the armor last three games, however. The run blocking hasn’t been as polished. There have been some mental breakdowns. Syracuse blocking a punt against the Tigers comes to mind.

If Clemson wants to beat Notre Dame, they need to play their best ball. The Irish have more than proven they can defeat Clemson not playing at their absolute best.

Home/ACC