ACC Previews and Predictions: Week 7

The ACC is now in full swing as some teams are starting to take the shape of contenders while others had the false appearance of which and are now considered pretenders.

Last week was a prime example of teams taking the shape of contenders while the others have fallen out, turning into pretenders. The conference had four teams ranked in the top 25 a week ago, but this week there are just three thanks to the Florida State Seminoles thrashing of the Maryland Terrapins, 63-0. It was supposed to be the Seminoles toughest game of the season thus far, but Florida State stomped on the Terrapins, earning major respect from everyone around college football.

While the Seminoles could possibly be the best team in the conference after that win, the Clemson Tigers have been considered the best team in the ACC all year long so far. The Tigers had to travel to take on the Syracuse Orange in week six, but that proved to be no contest as Clemson won 49-14.

Sure these two team may be atop the ACC right now, but don’t forget about the Miami Hurricanes who could easily contend for the conference title before the season is over. Miami has taken down an SEC foe on its way to an unbeaten record through six weeks of the season.

This week doesn’t feature any solid matchups worth watching, but in just two weeks, the game of the year will be played in the ACC, squaring off the Seminoles and Tigers. That game will likely decide who will still have a chance at a national title and who doesn’t.

Check out the week six previews and predictions for each ACC game.

Connor Muldowney is a columnist for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @Connormuldowney, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google. You can also reach him at [email protected].

Pittsburgh at No. 24 Virginia Tech

In order for the Hokies to avoid an upset in week seven to Tom Savage and the Panthers, Logan Thomas must step up at quarterback. The rest of their season relies on how well the senior performs.

PREDICTION: Pitt 13, Virginia Tech 28

Navy at Duke

While Navy has one of the best rushing attacks in the nation, it also doesn't find the endzone nearly enough as it should. Duke will keep this one close and pull off the victory at home.

PREDICTION: Navy 21, Duke 24

Virginia at Maryland

After being embarrassed by Florida State, 63-0, there's probably no chance for this Maryland team to make it back into the top 25 this season. However, the Terrapins will take all of their out on Virginia.

PREDICTION: Virginia 17, Maryland 35

Syracuse at North Carolina State

North Carolina State showed some potential in the loss against Clemson earlier in the season while the Orange haven't beaten a major conference opponent in three tries this season. Don't expect it to happen in this game either.

PREDICTION: Syracuse 15, North Carolina State 34

Boston College at No. 3 Clemson

This one will be no contest as Tajh Boyd's Heisman campaign will continue with a blowout win over Boston College at home.

PREDICTION: Boston College 10, Clemson 41

Georgia Tech at Brigham Young

Georgia Tech has lost two straight tough games against now-ranked opponents. BYU has the potential to beat anyone at any time, but the Yellow Jackets run game will be too much for the Cougars to handle as it ranks seventh in the nation.

PREDICTION: Georgia Tech 31, BYU 28