"With that in mind, we asked our college football reporters to predict what the season-defining game will be for all 68 power-conference teams in 2026. ACC Sept. 26 vs. Virginia Tech. Peruse BC's schedule given last year's struggles, and it's tough to find many wins. The Eagles open on the road at Cincinnati, host Rutgers, then play FCS Maine."
"As the Tosh Lupoi era begins, in comes a fresh chance to change the narrative about what Cal football will be in the ACC. But with Stanford also having a first-year coach, this year could also be a race between rivals to see who can elevate their program faster."
"The ACC used to run through Clemson. The Tigers won the conference eight times from 2015 to 2024. And while Miami didn't get to claim the league title last year -- that honor went to Duke -- the Canes clearly are the preeminent program in the ACC after a run to the 2026 national championship game."
College football teams face pivotal games that define their seasons, whether through anticipated matchups against rivals or unexpected contests that shift momentum. These season-defining games can be nonconference showdowns against prominent programs, rivalry games, or surprising matchups that emerge as crucial turning points. For the 2026 season, college football reporters have identified specific games for all 68 power-conference teams that will determine their trajectories. In the ACC, Boston College's September 26 home game against Virginia Tech represents a critical early-season test following struggles, while Cal's November 21 matchup with Stanford under new coaching regimes will showcase program development. Clemson faces Miami on October 3 as the Tigers attempt to recapture dominance in a conference where Miami has emerged as the preeminent program.
#college-football-2026 #season-defining-games #acc-conference #program-trajectories #rivalry-matchups
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