ACC Football Shakeup?! 10 Power 4 Games Could Change Everything!
The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is seriously considering a major overhaul of its football scheduling format, potentially impacting powerhouse programs like Clemson and Florida State. Athletic directors are meeting to discuss a proposal that would mandate all member schools to play at least 10 games against Power Four opponents. This shift aims to boost the conference's profile and improve its standing in the College Football Playoff rankings, but the details, particularly the number of conference games, remain a sticking point.
The Sticking Point: Conference Games
The ACC is weighing two primary options: a 9+1 model (nine conference games plus one non-conference game against a Power Four opponent) or an 8+2 model. The 8+2 model would allow more flexibility for schools with traditional non-conference rivalries. However, moving to a nine-game conference schedule could limit the ability of schools like Clemson to schedule marquee non-conference matchups.
Clemson's Concerns
Clemson, in particular, is reportedly concerned about the potential impact on its non-conference schedule. The Tigers have future games scheduled against LSU, Notre Dame (a 12-year home-and-home series starting in 2027), Georgia, and Oklahoma. Their annual rivalry game against South Carolina is also a key factor. While the nine-game conference schedule wouldn't necessarily affect the South Carolina game, it could limit their ability to schedule other Power Four opponents in years where they are already obligated to play Notre Dame as part of the ACC's agreement with the Irish.
SEC's Influence
The SEC's recent decision to move to a nine-game conference schedule, driven in part by College Football Playoff metrics that favor wins against quality opponents, is likely influencing the ACC's discussions. The SEC's model requires three permanent conference opponents and a rotation of the remaining six, with all teams mandated to face at least one Power Four opponent or Notre Dame each season.
What's Next?
The ACC is aiming to finalize a scheduling format that will ensure its teams are competitive on the national stage and maximize their chances of College Football Playoff inclusion. While the move towards a 10-game Power Four schedule seems likely, the final details and implementation timeline remain to be determined. The outcome of these discussions will have a significant impact on the future of ACC football.