By: Zachary Davis (@assuredfame)
The ACC had the worst start of any of the conferences, but that doesn’t mean there weren’t some impressive wins. Let’s get to it.
Football School
The Tar Heels kicked off their season with an impressive 48-24 win over Texas. They looked sharp on both sides of the ball and set the tone for what could be a big year. North Carolina QB Kevin Price is known for his running ability, but it was his arm that made the difference this week. Price threw for 515 yards and 3 touchdowns while completing 81% of his passes.
The defense did their part as well. CBs Chili Sierra and Darius Dale both had interceptions. The defense as a whole was great, especially in the redzone. Texas came up empty in three of their five trips to the Redzone.
The Seminoles Pull it Off
The Seminoles pulled off a nail-biter, edging out LSU 37-35. It was a thrilling game that showed their ability to handle pressure. Tom Pence and his crew did just enough to win.
On offense, the story was WR Dave Axis. The two-time All-American had 9 catches, 223 yards, and 2 touchdowns. The likely Offensive Player of the Week dominated the LSU secondary the entire game. He accounted for 61% of QB Zeus Claydon’s passing yards.
The defense was led by OLB Bjorn Thorsen, who had 11 tackles and 1 TFL. The rangy linebacker seemed like he was everywhere. Thorsen had a few key tackles on 3rd downs to help his team get off the field.
Overall, this was a big win over a solid team. Florida State made a statement this week. They are back.
Downgraded to a Tropical Storm
The Hurricanes put up a fight but ultimately fell 20-31 to Alabama. Alabama was a tough draw in the opening week, as they look like a top contender in Season 21. Miami struggled, but there were some bright spots on this talented Hurricane roster.
HB Bo Yost did what he always does. He put up impressive yards while staying over four yards per carry. He also added 11 catches for 49 yards. However, Yost is still hunting for his first touchdown of the season.
DE Bubba Waddsworth had a career-type game to start his junior season. He had three TFLs and two sacks against the Crimson Tide. This is the second most TFLs and tied for the most sacks he has ever had in a single game. This could be a sign of things to come for the pass rusher.
The Hurricanes fell short, ultimately. But they are a great team. This won’t define their season.
Other Games
Georgia 30, Virginia Tech 19
The Hokies showed some flashes, but couldn’t stick with the Dawgs in the end. However, the Hokies showed they weren’t a walkover. Keep an eye on Mucci’s squad.
Tennessee 48, Notre Dame 23
The Volunteers came out and punched the Irish in the mouth this week. Notre Dame had no answer for the passing attack led by Sterling Verdugo.
Kentucky 62, Clemson 10
The new-look Tigers had a tough draw landing Kentucky in the opening week. This was a beatdown plain and simple. It will be up to AD Logan Wetzel to lead his young team past this and on to greener pastures.
Week 2 Matchups
North Carolina vs Auburn
Tuesday, 6:30 PM CST on Twitch
This is a big test for the Tar Heels as they face one of the SEC’s best. Can they once again pull off a massive upset?
Virginia Tech vs West Virginia
Wednesday, 6:30 PM CST on Twitch
The Battle for the Black Diamond Trophy should be a great one. Both teams are looking to get their first win of the season and ruin their rival. Don’t miss this one.
Notre Dame vs Oklahoma
Wednesday, 8:30 PM CST
A matchup with a little extra drama as Notre Dame faces their former AD. Oklahoma should be the favorite, but this could be a close game.
Florida State vs Florida
Thursday, 6:30 PM CST on Twitch
The rivalry is back, and it’s going to be intense. Florida showed they are a much-improved team last week. Don’t expect this to be a walk in the park for the Seminoles.
Clemson vs Texas A&M
Thursday, 6:30 PM CST on YouTube
Clemson looks to prove they’re on the rise under new leadership and they will get a chance to prove it. Texas A&M should be the favorite in this game, but Clemson has a chance if they put together a great game plan.
Miami vs Colorado
Thursday, 8:30 PM CST on Twitch
The Hurricanes get a great chance to bounce back in Week 2. Colorado looked phenomenal in the first half of their Week 1 game but fell apart in the second half. If the first-half team shows up, this will be a great game.
