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ACC Football Power Rankings, Week 1: Can Clemson reclaim the throne?

By Dante Pryor

Dec 4, 2021; Charlotte, NC, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) holds up the championship trophy as head coach Pat Narduzzi looks on after winning the ACC championship game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2021; Charlotte, NC, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) holds up the championship trophy as head coach Pat Narduzzi looks on after winning the ACC championship game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Pitt Panthers won their first ACC football title. Can the Panthers repeat, or will Clemson reclaim the top spot in the conference?

… Reunited, and it feels so good
Reunited ’cause we understood
There’s one perfect fit
And, sugar, this one is it
We both are so excited because we’re reunited, hey, hey

Reunited by Peaches and Herb

Welcome back to headquarters on the corner of Tobacco Road and the future site of the David Cutcliffe memorial statue. We’ve got mint juleps, the ole’ ball coach, and a host of storylines to keep track of this season.

Can Clemson reclaim its place amongst college football’s elite? 

Anywhere else, a ten-win season and a bowl win is a fantastic year. However, this isn’t anywhere else; it’s Clemson, South Carolina, where “Best is the Standard.” This season is critical for the Tigers. Brent Venables and Tony Elliot are head coaches, and Dabo Swinney doubled down on his staff, promoting Brandon Streeter and Wes Goodwin.

Will NC State win the “big one?”

Head coach Dave Doeren arguably has the best team he’s had during his time in Raleigh. The only defense better than the Wolfpack is Clemson. That said, North Carolina State is infamous for having excellent teams only to lose a game (or two) they shouldn’t lose.

Can Miami contend this season?

Head coach Mario Cristobal has to be excited that he already has a quarterback in Tyler Van Dyke. Can the Hurricanes cash in on another transfer wide receiver? The offensive and defensive lines are legit. Is that enough for the ‘Canes to play for just its second ACC title ever?

There are a host of other storylines in the conference this season. So in honor of the rivalry that ain’t a rivalry and RIP to the turnover chain, here are the ACC Power Rankings for week one.

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