ACC Football: Preseason Rankings vs. Final Power Rankings Recap
The 2025 ACC football season delivered twists, surprises, and the usual dose of chaos. As we reflect on the year, let’s compare the preseason expectations to how the final power rankings shook out after conference play and the ACC Championship.
Final ACC Power Rankings (with Record)
1. Clemson (13-0)
2. Boston College (9-4)
3. North Carolina (9-3)
4. Miami (9-3)
5. Florida State (8-4)
6. NC State (8-4)
7. Louisville (8-4)
8. Georgia Tech (7-5)
9. SMU (7-5)
10. Stanford (5-7)
Clemson (Preseason #1 → Final #1)
No surprise here. Coach El Jefe guided Clemson to an undefeated regular season and an ACC title. The Tigers ran the ball 74% of the time, powered by Heisman frontrunner Phil Mafah, who put up an eye-popping 3,600 yards and 41 touchdowns. QB Cade Klubnik also had an efficient year with 26 TDs and just 6 INTs. With a playoff bye secured, Clemson looks dangerous heading into postseason play.
Boston College (Unranked → Final #2)
The breakout team of the year. Coach Rohk took an unranked BC squad all the way to the ACC title game. A high-powered offense and opportunistic defense fueled the Eagles’ surprise run. BC's rise was a major miss by preseason voters, but a major statement from a program on the rise.
North Carolina (Preseason #3 → Final #3)
UNC hit their mark. Coach PacksyD guided the Tar Heels to a strong 9-3 record and came within inches of the ACC title game. Now, he faces a big offseason decision: return to Chapel Hill or capitalize on draft stock elsewhere.
Miami (Preseason #2 → Final #4)
Coach Dealer started hot, and at one point looked destined for a CFP berth. But late losses to Florida State and Georgia Tech derailed that momentum. With contract negotiations reportedly stalling, Miami’s situation is worth watching.
Florida State (Preseason #4 → Final #5)
Coach Sammy took on one of the nation’s toughest schedules and still delivered a strong season. FSU battled hard, including a nail-biting loss to Clemson and a thriller vs. UNC. With a bowl game on the horizon, the Noles are trending upward.
NC State (Preseason #8 → Final #6)
Coach Holmey had NC State rolling early, but a loss to Clemson shifted the momentum. Still, 8-4 exceeded expectations, and with a deeper roster expected next year, the Wolfpack could be a sleeper.
Louisville (Preseason #5 → Final #7)
A disappointing step back for Coach SRGTZT, whose squad couldn’t replicate last season’s magic. Losses to Notre Dame, Miami, and Clemson hurt, and a close loss to BC capped a frustrating year. Louisville will look to bounce back next fall.
Georgia Tech (Unranked → Final #8)
Coach UF deserves serious praise. With the lowest win goals in the ACC, Georgia Tech beat Florida State in the opener and remained competitive throughout. At 7-5, the Yellow Jackets are bowl bound and building momentum.
SMU (Preseason #6 → Final #9)
Coach Block had one of the most competitive 7-5 seasons imaginable. From a 31-30 loss to Auburn to a string of close ACC games, SMU was never outclassed. With key transfers arriving, Season 33 could be a major leap forward.
Stanford (Preseason #7 → Final #10)
Coach Metrodee endured a tough season, finishing 5-7. While Stanford stayed competitive in most games, the results didn’t match the talent. With a fresh recruiting class, don’t be shocked to see the Cardinal bounce back.
Summary: Hits, Misses & Surprises
Biggest Riser: Boston College (Unranked → #2)
Biggest Fall: Stanford (#7 → #10)
Most Accurate Pick: Clemson (#1 → #1), UNC (#3 → #3)
Biggest Surprise: Georgia Tech exceeding expectations with a 7-5 finish.
The 2025 season proved once again that ACC football is anything but predictable. With coaching rumors, transfer portal shifts, and bold recruiting moves ahead, the offseason may be just as exciting as the games.
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