This week's polls have been released. Here's how the ACC fared, from the top of the polls to the bottom, and what it means.
(AP/Coaches)
8/8. Clemson
No surprise here to see Dabo Swinney's squad getting a bump into the top 10 after knocking off their third straight ranked opponent. The most impressive takeaway from Saturday's 23-3 win over Virginia Tech in Blacksburg was the complete effort in all aspects of the game. Tajh Boyd, Sammy Watkins, and the rest of the Tigers offense was well covered heading into the game, but a dominating performance by defensive end Andre Branch and the Clemson defense stole the show. In a matter of weeks the Tigers have become the ACC frontrunners, now they just have to avoid the predicted letdown.13/13. Georgia Tech
The Yellow Jackets also see a boost in the rankings after improving to 5-0 on the weekend. Georgia Tech once again held off a relentless ACC opponent in the 45-35 win at N.C. State. Twice the Yellow Jackets scored in three touchdown bursts, and twice the Wolfpack climbed back into the game. Georgia Tech leads the nation in rushing offense averaging 378.2 yards per game, while their total offense ranks second in the nation behind Case Keenum-led Houston. Up next will be a visit from Maryland, who struggled early before taking care of Towson 28-3.21/17. Virginia Tech
The Hokies take a predictable tumble down the polls to the edge of the top 20. The 4-0 start always seemed to have an asterik in many people's mind due to the level of competition in the Hokies' opening games. But no one wants to give up on a Frank Beamer-led squad after just one conference loss to a hot Clemson team. Virginia Tech faces Miami this weekend, and digs right in to a challenging ACC conference schedule that should give us an idea if the defending conference champs have a shot to return to the title game.23/22. Florida State
Florida State had the week off, and did not see much shift in the polls.Others receiving votes:No other teams in the ACC received any attention from the media, but both North Carolina (10 points) and Duke (1 point) made appearances on the coaches' ballots.
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