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It’s that time of the week where we reflect on games from the previous weekend. In our weekly series, we identify the most important wins and losses in the A.C.C., and what it means for each program. Let’s do this people!
WINNERS: Louisville Cardinals
Heisman trophy winner Lamar Jackson didn’t exactly set the wold ablaze on week one. That’s fine, because he reminded everyone why he has the hardware. The Atlantic (again) showed its dominance over the Coastal, and Jackson accounted for six touchdowns. Jackson and Louisville pulled away with a 20 point fourth quarter, sealing the deal in Chapel Hill.
LOSERS: North Carolina Tarheels
The North Carolina Tarheels are 0-2. I grant you they had one of the most challenging opening schedules in the A.C.C., but 0-2 is no place to be. Look for Larry Fedora and company to right the ship on the the road against the Old Dominion Monarchs.
WINNERS: Clemson Tigers
I’m not sure what was more impressive. The Clemson defense sacked Auburn QB, Jarrett Stidham 11 times, or that Auburn managed to hang as close as they did. Clemson’s road to the repeat doesn’t get any easier. They travel to Louisville this weekend to face red hot Lamar Jackson and the Cardinals.
LOSERS: Syracuse Orange
Dino Babers offense never got in gear, as Syracuse was upset at home by Middle Tennessee State. Last year, Virginia Tech traveled to the Carrier Dome and got run. M.T.S.U. limited the high octane Orange to 23 points to pull the biggest A.C.C. upset of the week.
WINNERS: Duke Blue Devils
The David Cutcliffe led Devils improved to 2-0 with a solid win over a Big Ten opponent. Sure, it was the Northwestern Wildcats, but coming off a disappointing 4-8 season, the Devils should feel great about the start. They host the Baylor Bears this week, and they are are a complete dumpster fire.
LOSERS: Virginia Cavaliers
The Indiana Hoosiers played the Ohio State Buckeyes hard. They are a much improved ball club. They went to Scott Stadium and physically dominated Wahoowa. It was 17-3 at the half, and the Cavaliers made it interesting in the second, but the Hoosiers eased out of Charlottesville with a comfortable 34-17 win. Bowl season will be without Virginia this year.