ACC Football 2025: Predicting the Best Game Every Week

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) enters the 2025 football season with a revamped schedule, heightened expectations, and a host of intriguing matchups. From the debut of NFL legend Bill Belichick as North Carolina’s head coach to high-stakes rivalries and non-conference showdowns, the upcoming season promises to deliver compelling football each week.

Week 1: Clemson vs. LSU – A Clash of Tigers

The season kicks off with a marquee matchup between Clemson and LSU on August 30. Both teams are expected to be ranked in the preseason top 10, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown. Clemson’s quarterback Cade Klubnik and LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier are anticipated to be Heisman contenders, adding to the game’s allure .

Week 2: Florida State vs. Alabama – A Test of Resilience

Florida State opens its season against Alabama on August 30. After a disappointing 2024 season, the Seminoles aim to rebound against the Crimson Tide, who are also looking to bounce back from a subpar year .

Week 3: North Carolina vs. TCU – Belichick’s Debut

On September 1, North Carolina hosts TCU in a highly anticipated game marking Bill Belichick’s first as the Tar Heels’ head coach. The matchup is expected to draw significant attention, with Belichick’s coaching debut adding extra intrigue .

Week 4: Virginia Tech vs. South Carolina – A Neutral-Site Battle

Virginia Tech faces South Carolina on August 31 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The Hokies aim to improve upon their 2024 performance, while the Gamecocks, led by Heisman candidate LaNorris Sellers, look to continue their momentum from a strong season .

Week 5: Syracuse vs. Tennessee – A Challenging Test

Syracuse takes on Tennessee on August 30 in a game that presents a significant challenge. The Orange, coming off a 10-win season, face a tough opponent in the Volunteers, making this a crucial early-season matchup .

Week 6: Miami vs. Notre Dame – A Historic Rivalry Renewed

Miami hosts Notre Dame on August 31 in a renewal of their historic rivalry. Both teams are looking to make a statement early in the season, with the Hurricanes aiming to avenge last season’s playoff disappointment .

Week 7: NC State vs. Wake Forest – A Battle of the Underdogs

NC State faces Wake Forest in a matchup between two teams looking to make their mark in the ACC. The Wolfpack, with a balanced offense and strong defense, look to continue their upward trajectory, while the Demon Deacons aim to pull off an upset .

Week 8: Louisville vs. Clemson – A Rematch of Last Season’s Defeat

Louisville hosts Clemson in a rematch of last season’s 33-21 victory over the Tigers. Clemson seeks redemption, while Louisville looks to prove that their previous win was no fluke (Bleacher Report).

Week 9: Florida State vs. NC State – A Crucial Conference Clash

Florida State travels to NC State for a pivotal ACC matchup. Both teams are expected to contend for the conference title, making this game crucial for their championship aspirations (Toxigon).

Week 10: Virginia Tech vs. Louisville – A High-Stakes Encounter

Virginia Tech hosts Louisville in a game that could have significant implications for the ACC standings. Both teams are looking to assert themselves as contenders, making this a must-watch matchup (Toxigon).

Week 11: Syracuse vs. NC State – A Defensive Showdown

Syracuse faces NC State in a game expected to feature strong defensive play. Both teams have built their success on stout defenses, setting the stage for a low-scoring, hard-fought battle (Toxigon).

Week 12: Clemson vs. NC State – The Textile Bowl

Clemson hosts NC State in the annual Textile Bowl. With both teams vying for ACC supremacy, this rivalry game is expected to be a high-intensity affair (Toxigon).

Week 13: North Carolina vs. Duke – The Battle for the Victory Bell

North Carolina faces Duke in the annual rivalry game for the Victory Bell. With Bill Belichick now at the helm, the Tar Heels look to assert dominance over their in-state rivals (Bleacher Report).

Week 14: Florida State vs. Clemson – ACC Championship Implications

Florida State hosts Clemson in a game that could determine the ACC Coastal Division champion. Both teams are expected to be in contention for the division title, making this a critical matchup (Toxigon).

Week 15: Miami vs. NC State – A Decisive Conference Clash

Miami travels to NC State in a game that could have significant implications for the ACC standings. With both teams looking to secure a spot in the conference championship game, this matchup is crucial (Toxigon).

Week 16: Syracuse vs. Wake Forest – Season Finale Showdown

Syracuse hosts Wake Forest in the season finale.