The Atlantic Coast Conference entered the 2026 season still echoing the turbulence of last year’s College Football Playoff, where Duke captured the ACC championship with an 8‑5 record yet was left out of the playoff bracket. That surprise created a ripple effect, prompting debates about the league’s strength and the criteria used by the selection committee.
Miami, riding the momentum of a Week 1 victory over Notre Dame, leveraged that win to force its way into the playoff conversation. The Hurricanes then bolstered their roster by poaching standout quarterback Darian Mensah from Duke, a move that many analysts say gave them the edge needed to contend for a national title.
The preseason accolades reflect that optimism. Malachi Toney was named the ACC’s Offensive Player of the Year, while linebacker Sammy Brown earned Defensive Player of the Year honors. Darian Mensah was selected as the conference’s Newcomer of the Year, underscoring the impact of his transfer.
All‑ACC Selections and Predicted Order of Finish
Miami’s dominance was further validated when seven of its players were placed on the All‑ACC team, a testament to the depth of talent across the squad. The conference’s predicted order of finish lists the Hurricanes at the top, followed by traditional powerhouses such as Clemson, Florida State, and Virginia Tech.
Other schools also saw representation on the All‑ACC squad, including Louisville, North Carolina, and Georgia Tech, ensuring that the league’s competitive balance remains a focal point throughout the season. The breadth of talent suggests that the ACC will once again be a major factor in the national playoff picture.
The excitement is not confined to the field; it extends to the broader sports media ecosystem. Coverage from the USA TODAY Network has highlighted the narrative, emphasizing how the ACC’s recent upheaval could reshape conference dynamics for years to come.