Was the ACC that much better 2 years ago when Clemson won it all over Alabama? I don't remember any ACC juggernauts in 2016 besides Clemson. The writer is correct in pointing out the mediocrity of the ACC, but it has been that way for a few years now. If anything, I think it may help Clemson in the playoff, since they took less of a physical beating throughout the regular season as compared to an ND or Oklahoma. They are going to come in with their tanks on full. They really didn't have to scratch and claw for most victories.