There are 15 more weekdays until NC State kicks off against Tennessee in Atlanta on Friday, Aug. 31. We’re counting down with 25 reasons to be excited about ACC football this year. This list features coaches, players, games, themes, position groups – 25 things for you to look forward to.
The countdown to kickoff continues with …
No. 15: Unofficial state championships. These are always fun to keep track of, and the states of Florida, North Carolina and Virginia are up for grabs again. Unofficially, Virginia Tech has owned both Virginia AND North Carolina in recent years. The Hokies haven’t lost to rival Virginia in the Commonwealth Cup game since 2003. Florida State has regained control of Florida, beating rivals Florida and Miami in each of the past two seasons under coach Jimbo Fisher. NC State has beaten rival North Carolina in each of the past five seasons. Georgia Tech and Clemson will also battle their respective in-state SEC rivals for territorial bragging rights.
No. 16: Talented true freshmen
No. 17: Unpredictability
No. 18: ACC vs. Notre Dame
No. 19: Clemson's offensive playmakers
No. 20: The ACC's record chasers
No. 21: Larry Fedora
No. 22: One of the nation's top rushing offenses
No. 23: The last season before expansion
No. 24: Brent Venables
No. 25: A fresh start at Maryland
