Clemson Football: ACC Power Rankings headed into Week 8

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Oct 1, 2022; Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Malik Cunningham (3) runs with the ball during the second half against the Boston College Eagles at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Louisville Cardinals – Last Week: 11 – (3-3) – The Cards were down 10-0 after one quarter and Virginia fans were hoping that Brennan Armstrong’s woes were fixed. Fast forward to the end of the game, and the Cardinals pulled out a 34-17 victory, doubling up the Hoos. Brock Domann was extremely serviceable in relief of Malik Cunningham throwing for 275 yards and a score through the air and added 71 yards and a touchdown on the ground. Maybe not as electric as Cunningham, but plenty good enough to beat Virginia. Next up: vs. Pitt (10/22)

8. Duke Blue Devils – Last Week: 7 – (4-3) – Back-to-back losses for Mike Elko’s squad, however, they looked really talented and fought like crazy against rival North Carolina. They ended up losing 38-35, and really had multiple opportunities to win the ball game, but came up just short. This isn’t your father’s Duke team. They actually play a fun style of football. If they can get some decent recruits in there, they’re going to be something in the years to come. Next up: @ Miami

7. NC State Wolfpack – Last Week: 4 – (5-2) – With the loss of Devin Leary this Wolfpack team did not look very good against Syracuse in a 24-9 loss in New York state. With Leary gone for the year, Jack Chambers was thrust into the starting role. Highly touted freshman QB MJ Morris had some opportunities as well to run the offense against the Orange. A total of 255 yards of offense and only 9 points and it’s the same old NC State. All hype, and no follow-through. I hate seeing injuries to big-time players and NC State will struggle without their leader and without a complimentary receiver to Thayer Thomas. The defense can only do so much. Next up: vs. NC State (Thurs. 10/27)

6. Florida State Seminoles – Last Week: 7 – (4-3) – Florida State surprisingly jumps up in the power rankings this week after a third consecutive loss. Having watched them all night last night and the better parts of the two prior games, the one thing that (will be said ad nauseum) they did not do was quit. They were clearly outmatched by Clemson throughout most of the game, but even down 20 points in the 4th quarter, had a chance to attempt an onside kick. Yes, they have three losses, but they’re all to the top tier of the ACC, and they should have beaten NC State! Next up: vs. Georgia Tech (10/29)

5. Pittsburgh Panthers – Last Week: 6 – (4-2) – I’m still not sure about this Pitt squad, however I believe they have the pieces to contend for a Coastal title. Kedon Slovis has been steady for the better part of the season and running back Israel Abanikanda is arguably the best back in the conference. A sneaky game this weekend coming off their bye with Louisville and Malik Cunningham. I think this game will answer some questions about Pitt. Next up: @ Louisville

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