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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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Oct 30, 2021; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Miami Hurricanes quarterback Tyler Van Dyke (9) scrambles away from Pittsburgh Panthers defensive lineman Habakkuk Baldonado (87) during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. Miami won 38-34. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2021; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Miami Hurricanes quarterback Tyler Van Dyke (9) scrambles away from Pittsburgh Panthers defensive lineman Habakkuk Baldonado (87) during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. Miami won 38-34. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Miami Hurricanes

Next to the North Carolina State Wolfpack, the Miami Hurricanes are the other trendy pick to win the ACC this fall. New head coach Mario Cristobal has brought a buzz to Coral Gables that has not been in quite a long time. However, a lot has to go right for the ‘Canes to contend in the ACC.

A historical factor cannot be overlooked regarding Miami football in the ACC. The Hurricanes have yet to win an ACC title and have only played for one. There are many reasons Miami has not dominated the way it should, but history cannot be overlooked here.

A lot of things have to go right for the Hurricanes to win the Coastal and get to Charlotte. First, quarterback Tyler Van Dyke has to absorb the new offense from coordinator Josh Gattis and hope that Clemson transfer Frank Ladson can stay healthy and play to his potential.

That said, there is a lot to like about the Hurricanes. The defense is experienced, and Cristobal and his staff will have this team playing physically in the trenches. If the receivers come around coupled with Jaylon Knighton in the backfield, the ‘Canes could appear in Charlotte.

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