Years of investment paying off for ACC football in national reputation

Posted Aug 2, 2018
John Swofford played in the ACC at a time (1968-71) when its football was a national afterthought at best. Back then, even though Clemson won the league a national championship in 1981, and even though the ACC sent players like Randy White and Lawrence Taylor to the NFL, preseason polls rarely included ACC teams in their Top 10 or even their Top 15. (WRAL Sports Fan)

Related: Other News

College football media flabbergasted by Michigan’s controversial Hail Mary win over Western Michigan
Immediately after the play, the stadium announcer said it was under review. And a few moments later, the head referee stepped to the middle of...
Sun Sep 6, 2026

'We're in this to build something': Why there's renewed optimism for Cal football
UC Berkeley chancellor Rich Lyons was about 12 when he started visiting one of his brothers on campus. His parents hadn't gone to college, but...
Sat Sep 5, 2026

At Virginia Tech, what does success look like for James Franklin?
Now, James Franklin is living the American Dream, as one of the most visible college football coaches in the country, and his most recent job...
Sat Sep 5, 2026

Tennessee Football Reveals Dolly Parton Tribute Helmet Sticker for 2026 Season
During his opening Week 1 press conference, Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel revealed that the Volunteers’ football team will wear Dolly Parton tribute stickers on...
Sat Sep 5, 2026