This Week In The ACC: Surprises, Struggles, Big Games Ahead

Week 5 in the ACC brought drama, upsets, and a reshuffling of expectations across the league. Our guest, Tim Thomas of Tech Lunch Pail, joined Jeff and Matthew on This Week In The ACC to break it all down.

Duke and Virginia Shine

Duke continues to prove they’re not a one-hit wonder. After early questions following a stumble against Illinois and Tulane, the Blue Devils are back on track. Quarterback Darian Mensah has elevated the offense, showing why he’s viewed as one of the league’s top signal-callers. Their path isn’t easy, but Duke is quietly positioning itself for a possible run to Charlotte.

The bigger shocker, however, came in Charlottesville. Virginia knocked off Florida State in one of the biggest wins for the Cavaliers since the Bryce Perkins era. QB Chandler Morris showcased poise and playmaking, while Jamari Taylor’s power running gave UVA balance. Suddenly, the Hoos are legitimate contenders in the ACC race—a storyline few predicted in August.

Virginia Tech Fights Back

In Blacksburg, Virginia Tech’s turnaround under interim leadership has sparked new optimism. Running back Terryon Stewart delivered explosive plays, including an 85-yard touchdown that ignited Lane Stadium. Add in standout linebacker play and clutch kicking, and the Hokies’ win over NC State hinted at a scrappy second half of the season.

Trouble in Tallahassee

Florida State’s playoff hopes aren’t dead, but their loss to Virginia puts the Seminoles in a must-win position heading into this weekend’s showdown with Miami. The stakes couldn’t be higher—beat the Hurricanes, and FSU’s path to both Charlotte and the CFP is alive. Lose, and their margin for error vanishes.

Looking Ahead In The ACC

Week 6 offers multiple games with ACC Championship implications. Miami at Florida State headlines the schedule, but UVA at Louisville could be just as pivotal. And don’t overlook Duke’s cross-country trip to Cal—a classic upset spot after a heavy travel stretch.

As Thomas put it: “This is the widest-open ACC race in years.” Fans should buckle up—October football is about to get wild.
Listen to “This Week in the ACC: Surprises, Struggles, And Big Games Ahead” on Spreaker.