ACC Moves to Nine-Game Conference Schedule, Aligns with Power 4

What's Happening?

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) athletic directors have agreed to transition to a nine-game conference schedule, aligning with other Power 4 leagues. This decision was made during meetings in Charlotte, North Carolina. Starting in 2026, ACC teams will be required to play nine conference games plus one Power 4 game, totaling ten Power 4 games annually. This change follows the Southeastern Conference's (SEC) recent move to a nine-game schedule, prompting the ACC to reconsider its previous eight-game format. ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips stated that the decision was overwhelmingly supported by athletics directors, emphasizing the commitment to strengthening the conference and its programs. The new scheduling model will be formally adopted later this week, with additional details to be determined.

Why It's Important?

The shift to a nine-game conference schedule is significant for the ACC as it positions the league alongside other major conferences in terms of competitive scheduling. This move could enhance the ACC's visibility and competitiveness in college football, potentially leading to more high-profile matchups and increased media attention. It also reflects a broader trend among Power 4 conferences to increase the number of games against top-tier opponents, which can impact team rankings and playoff considerations. Schools with existing nonconference rivalries, such as Florida State and Clemson, will need to adjust their schedules, potentially affecting traditional matchups and fan engagement.

What's Next?

The ACC's new scheduling model will be presented to faculty athletics representatives for formal adoption. As teams begin to implement the nine-game schedule, they will face decisions regarding nonconference games, especially those with existing rivalries. The ACC-SEC rivalry games, such as Florida-Florida State and Clemson-South Carolina, are expected to continue, but schools will need to balance these with the new Power 4 requirements. Additionally, Notre Dame's scheduling agreement with the ACC adds complexity, as it involves playing five ACC games annually, impacting the scheduling dynamics for teams like Clemson.

Beyond the Headlines

The decision to move to a nine-game schedule may have long-term implications for the ACC's strategic positioning in college football. It could lead to increased revenue from television contracts and sponsorships due to more competitive games. Furthermore, the alignment with other Power 4 conferences may influence future discussions on playoff structures and conference realignments. The ACC's unique partnership with Notre Dame and its impact on scheduling could also prompt further negotiations and adjustments in the coming years.