Clemson, Virginia Tech, Florida State Top List of ACC Bowl Predictions

The ACC adds the Congressional Bowl to its bowl allotment this season, and the ACC will need all nine of their slots this season.   Let's take a look at the bowl projections.

Orange (ACC Champ vs. Big East Champ)

Clemson vs. West Virginia

The Tigers finally win an ACC Championship.  West Virginia will have Pat White in his final college game in what should be a high-scoring matchup.

Chick-fil-A (ACC No. 2 vs. SEC No. 4/5)

Virginia Tech vs. Tennessee

The runner-up Hokies are glad to be invited to Atlanta, and the feeling is mutual since Va Tech travels well.  Alabama is considered here, but the potential matchup for the first game the following season gives Tennessee the edge.

Gator (ACC No. 3 vs. Big 12/Big East/Notre Dame)

Florida State vs. Notre Dame

Even though I have Wake finishing ahead of FSU, the 'Noles get the nod here with the fans they will bring.  The Gator Bowl just can't pass up Notre Dame, even though they have just seven wins against a weak schedule.

Champs Sports (ACC No. 4 vs. Big Ten No. 5)

Wake Forest vs. Michigan

Wake falls to the Champs Sports to play an improving Michigan team.  These two offenses will look very similar to each to other.

Music City (ACC No. 5 vs. SEC No. 5/6)

North Carolina vs. South Carolina

An old ACC rivalry is revived, and there is no love lost between the Carolinas.  These two teams met in '07 with South Carolina coming out on top.

Meineke (ACC No. 6 vs. Big East)

Miami vs. Rutgers

The Hurricanes meet up with old Big East rival Rutgers—except when the 'Canes were in the Big East, the Scarlet Knights were never this good.  Rutgers HC Greg Schiano used to coach at Miami and turned down their head job before last season.

Emerald (ACC No. 7 vs. Pac-10 No. 5)

Boston College vs. Cal

Maryland was here last year, so BC gets the nod for the Emerald Bowl.  Cal is chosen for its proximity.  The Eagles look to extend their bowl winning streak.

Congressional (ACC vs. Navy/Army)

Georgia Tech vs. Navy

The Congressional Bowl wants Maryland, but that would leave Georgia Tech returning to Boise again.  This bowl features Paul Johnson against his old Navy team.  Expect a lot of running plays.

Humanitarian (ACC vs. WAC)

Maryland vs. Boise State

The Terps will essentially play a road game against Boise State.