Earlier this week, I laid out the argument for how the ACC had not one, but three national-title contenders.
Florida State is the obvious one, at #2 in the BCS rankings after its 51-14 demolition of then-third-ranked Clemson last week. But Miami came into the week ranked seventh, with a game at FSU next week and a game at home against #14 Virginia Tech, the other contender in my argument.
At the least, the ‘Noles beat Miami next weekend, then have to beat the ‘Canes again in the ACC Championship Game, or have to beat Virginia Tech in that game.
And either Miami or Virginia Tech could beat Florida State or each other to insert their names into the discussion now dominated by Florida State.
After this weekend’s slate of games, um, nevermind.
Miami, for the second straight week, had to score late to beat an ACC also-ran, this week needing a last-minute touchdown to beat lowly Wake Forest at home, 24-21.
And as for Virginia Tech, well, it’s not as if Duke is where it used to be even a few years ago, but the Blue Devils won their first in their series with Virginia Tech since 1982 and posted the program’s first road win over a ranked opponent since 1971 with a 13-10 win in Blacksburg.
So Tech is out of any discussion of a national-title berth, though the Hokies are very much alive for the Coastal Division title and a BCS bowl berth.
Miami can redeem itself next week in Tallahassee, but remember, the Hurricanes just rallied to beat a Wake Forest team that last month lost to Louisiana-Monroe. Yeah.
So, sorry, FSU Nation. Sorry for doubting you. Get us back in the national discussion. You’re our only hope.
Column by Chris Graham
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