Playoff chaos. The sudden change in the rankings gives hope to the teams sitting on the edge. Some teams need a lot, but some just need that tiny chance that keeps them engaged. Rivalry week in the last week of the season gives most that chance. The ACC seems to be that conference this year. 4 teams still have a shot at the ACC championship and a potential playoff. Here are every team’s chances fully broken down.
Who is Still In?
Virginia Cavaliers
Absolutely the best spot in the conference. They just need to go beat Virginia Tech, and they would be in. Another option that sits in their back pocket is a Pitt loss. If Miami can beat the Panthers, the Cavaliers will still be in.
SMU Mustangs
SMU is in the second-best spot and has a pretty simple path as well. Beat Cal. A Pitt Loss to Miami also puts them in. If you’re an SMU fan, all you’re worried about is getting a win. After watching last week, SMU looks plenty ready for Cal.
Pittsburgh Panthers
If Pitt wants to make it, they have to first beat Miami. Then they will need one of the teams above to lose. If SMU or Virginia loses, then Pitt will sneak in. The Panthers made a statement when they got through Georgia Tech last week. Miami is up next.
Miami Hurricanes
Lastly, there is Miami. While it looks grim, there is still a chance. Miami would have to beat Pitt and then hope both SMU and Virginia Tech would lose.
So What’s Next for the ACC
The most likely matchup for the conference seems pretty clear. SMU is favored by 12 against Cal. On the other side, Virginia is also a double-digit favorite. So, SMU vs Virginia would be the most likely matchup to happen here. Although one loss could get interesting for the conference playoff implications.
If Miami is able to beat a ranked Pitt team, it would have a shot at getting in as an at-large bid. The easiest scenario to pick would be if Alabama lost in the SEC championship, moving them to three losses. The question at that point would be whether the committee will punish a team for playing in the championship game.
Bottom Line
The ACC Championship will be pretty important for the playoffs. The winner would likely be in, and right now it is up for grabs. If SMU and Virginia can take care of business, they will be heading to Charlotte. If they can’t, then someone else could be taking their spot.
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