After an unforgettable run to the national championship game last season, Miami sits atop the ACC power rankings following spring practice. But the Hurricanes aren't the only team generating buzz—the conference is shaping up to be a battleground with plenty of intrigue and uncertainty.
Miami, SMU, and Louisville have emerged as the teams to beat in USA TODAY Sports' post-spring ACC power rankings. Just behind them, potential spoilers like NC State, Georgia Tech, and Virginia are lurking, ready to shake things up. But notably absent from the conversation are some familiar names: Clemson, Florida State, and North Carolina.
The Tigers, Seminoles, and Tar Heels will face intense scrutiny this season. Clemson is hoping to recapture its glory days by bringing back former offensive coordinator Chad Morris. Florida State, meanwhile, has the talent to make noise—if they can stay out of their own way. As for North Carolina, don't expect miracles from second-year coach Bill Belichick. The Tar Heels have overhauled their roster through the transfer portal after a lackluster 2025 campaign, but they still need to develop their offensive and defensive lines to compete.
With spring practices wrapped up and a long summer ahead, here's how the ACC currently shakes out:
Miami – The defending national runner-up must replace standout defenders like edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr., but the addition of Duke transfer quarterback Darian Mensah provides a spark. The biggest challenge before the opener? Rebuilding an offensive line that was the engine behind last year's playoff run.
SMU – Kevin Jennings leads what could be an explosive offense capable of carrying the Mustangs back to the ACC title game—especially if the running game improves after a down 2025. The key to a playoff berth? A defense heavily reliant on transfers in the front seven and secondary.
Louisville – Like SMU, the Cardinals will score in bunches behind former Ohio State quarterback Lincoln Kienholz, whose athleticism offers a new dimension. This spring, he's been building chemistry with a revamped receiver group that includes Vanderbilt transfer Tre Richardson and former Tulsa tight end Brody Foley.
NC State – The Wolfpack have a solid quarterback in CJ Bailey, but questions at wide receiver remain. If the receiving corps steps up, NC State could challenge the top tier.
As the summer months stretch ahead, one thing is clear: the ACC is wide open. Whether you're repping a powerhouse or an underdog, now's the time to gear up for what promises to be a thrilling season.