The ACC will ensure its survival by maintaining a minimum of 15 schools after potential departures by FSU and Clemson due to legal battles and realignment threats, as indicated by Sportskeeda's Farouk Yusuf. This strategy aims to prevent renegotiation of media deals and maintain stability amidst conference realignment turmoil.

By the Numbers
  • The ACC aims to have at least 15 member schools post potential exits by FSU and Clemson.
  • The Big Ten and Big 12 could target specific ACC teams like UNC, UVA, Louisville, NC State, VA Tech, Pitt, and GA Tech in case of realignment.
Yes, But

While the ACC is preparing for potential departures, the exact outcomes and responses from other conferences remain uncertain, creating complexities in the conference realignment landscape.

State of Play
  • The ACC faces realignment threats from potential departures of key schools like FSU and Clemson.
  • Other power conferences like the Big Ten and Big 12 are poised to capitalize on possible realignment scenarios by targeting ACC schools.
What's Next

If FSU and Clemson leave, the ACC will focus on maintaining a sufficient number of member schools to secure its media deals and stability while other conferences are likely to engage in aggressive realignment efforts.

Bottom Line

The ACC's survival hinges on strategic member retention to avoid extensive realignment repercussions, emphasizing the importance of stability in the face of potential conference changes and ensuring long-term viability.