We all know that the ACC can become very heated when it becomes rivalry week. Whether these rivalries are chosen by the close proximity of the teams or if the ACC picks them, they have become a woven component of tradition in the ACC. Today we will look into the Top 5 ACC Football Rivalries. And for this list, we are doing rivalries specifically stated and not ones dubbed a rivalry by fans.
5. North Carolina – North Carolina State
“Absolute Hate” is a polite phrase to put on this in-state rivalry. Whenever the Wolfpack of NC State and the Tarheels of Chapel Hill get together, it is always an entertaining game. The history of this series dates back to 1894, where the Tarheels took domination of the series. However, as time went on we started to see NC State slowly build themselves up into this series, and some say now they dominate it. This is always a trusted game to get the fans of both teams ready to go.
4. North Carolina – Duke
The storied Victory Bell Rivalry is one that most ACC fans know of, but don’t talk about often. However, come time to play it, everyone’s eyes are glued onto how this game pans out. UNC has been the front runner of the series throughout the 90s and 00s, but a recent surge by Duke in their football program may return the competitiveness of this rivalry. Both team alike yearn to win the Victory Bell and hear its loud ringing fill their stadium, with the sound of bragging rights mixed in their as well.
3. Virginia Tech – Miami
This rivalry ends up deciding the ACC Coastal Division for most years. And the history between these two programs throughout their time in the Big East and ACC just adds fuel to their distaste for each other. Since joining the ACC, these two have went back and forth, with Virginia Tech leading the margin 8-7 since joining the conference in 2004. And although the Hokies have the ACC margin, the Hurricanes lead the series all-time with a 22-14 lead. Look for a great game whenever these two get together.
2. Florida State – Clemson
This rivalry was destined to happen through the birth of two college football powerhouses. This ACC Atlantic rivalry is a tell tale sign of who will usually end up winning the ACC Atlantic and the ACC Championship. And in fact, the winner of the rivalry has gone on to win the National Championship three out of the last six years. Both programs are traditionally backed by great head coaches and ensure us a classic nearly every game they meet.
1. Florida State – Miami
There are few rivalries that rack up the magnitude of attention as FSU-Miami. In their time against each other, these two programs have accounted for 39 conference championships, which some of those were against the other. These teams are fueled all season for the moment they get to play each other and the hate shows. Many of times we see fights break out during the games and even between the fans. This Florida in-state rivalry and ACC rivalry is the epitome of what a rivalry should be.
Photo Cover Credits: https://www.si.com/college-football/2018/11/10/best-college-gameday-signs-boston-college-clemson
