Before Florida State's loss, the ACC was essentially a two-horse race, but now, it's Clemson's to lose.
The start of this season's schedule is a gauntlet. Although it's technically a neutral site game, Clemson starts the season off going into the state of Georgia to play the No. 1-ranked Bulldogs. Then they face Florida State and NC State in the next four games. To have a shot at the ACC title, the Tigers must make it through that stretch with only one loss or two to keep playoff hopes alive.
However, Georgia Tech upsetting the Seminoles in Ireland yesterday has given Clemson some wiggle room. Clemson could drop the game against Georgia, plus one more this season, and still make the ACC championship game. However, it doesn't give the Tigers a pass against Florida State. If Clemson drops the game against FSU, but both teams finish the rest of the season undefeated in conference play, FSU has the tiebreaker.
Luckily, FSU doesn't look remotely like a top-10 team at the moment. Their defense — which was supposed to be their strength this season — allowed multiple gash plays by Georgia Tech. Their pass defense was ok, giving up only 146 yards and zero touchdowns, but the Yellowjackets ran all over Florida State for 190 yards and three touchdowns.
Needless to say, I feel much better about the Tigers' chances. Of course, winning the ACC still won't be easy, but at least Clemson can stretch its proverbial legs.