Spanning six seasons from 2015-20, the ACC came and went each year with little drama. It was simply understood that Clemson was likely going to cruise to the conference title and secure its spot in the College Football Playoff, which it did winning two national championships along the way.
The Tigers stumbled last season despite preseason hype surrounding star quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei, opening the door for Pittsburgh to win the ACC crown behind the arm of Heisman finalist Kenny Pickett. The unfamiliar parity in the league, though, led to the ACC being left without a chance at the national championship for the first time in the CFP era.
Entering this season, the expectation is that Clemson will bounce back and reclaim its stronghold on the league; the Tigers are the betting favorite to win the ACC at -140, according to Caesars Sportsbook. But the Tigers may be staring down a formidable challenger — not just this season but for years to come — if a Miami program optimistic about a return to prominence actually succeeds with one of its own, Mario Cristobal, leading the charge. There may even be a few dark horse teams waiting in the wings, salivating at their chance to surprisingly earn top-dog status in the conference, much as Pitt did last season.
The Tigers may be favored to return to their perch, but the ACC is still rife with storylines to follow this season. Our CBS Sports college football experts have provided their picks and predictions for the ACC ahead of the 2021 season below.
Most overrated team
Clemson: The Tigers may indeed win the ACC. Maybe last year was a speed bump, but I really need to see it first. As well as the defense may perform — and it’s good — Uiagalelei will have to live up to his expectations. If not, well, the ACC is too strong now for the Tigers to be able to slog through mediocrity. Watch out for Wake Forest, NC State, Florida State and Miami. It is unwise to grandfather Clemson into the title game just yet. — Dennis Dodd
Pitt: The Panthers had as outstanding a season as can be expected last year while winning the ACC and sending Pickett to the Heisman ceremony. An encore will be difficult to replicate, but I don’t see the Panthers finishing the season as high in the polls as they’ve started. It’s too much to ask considering the loss of Pickett, Jordan Addison and offensive coordinator Mark Whipple. Plus, Pat Narduzzi complaining…
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