Duke Claims First Outright ACC Football Championship Since 1962, Impacting College Football Playoff Race
Duke secured its first outright ACC football championship since 1962 with a 27-20 overtime victory over Virginia, significantly altering the College Football Playoff landscape and potential bids.
Overview
- Duke won its first outright ACC football championship since 1962, ending a long drought by defeating Virginia 27-20 in a pivotal overtime game.
- The Blue Devils' victory over Virginia, which included beating both No. 16 and No. 17 ranked teams, marked a historic achievement for the program.
- Virginia's defeat in the ACC championship game meant they missed their opportunity to reach the College Football Playoff for the first time in school history.
- Duke's unexpected championship win introduces considerable uncertainty into the College Football Playoff picture, potentially creating a path for a second Group of Five team, like James Madison.
- ACC commissioner Jim Phillips advocated for two ACC bids in the playoff, suggesting No. 12 Miami and the winner of the Duke-Virginia game, influencing the final playoff selections.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover the ACC championship neutrally, focusing on factual reporting of the game's outcome and its broader implications. They use descriptive language to convey the drama without bias, providing historical context for Duke's win and explaining Virginia's missed opportunity. The coverage balances both teams' performances and the impact on the College Football Playoff.
"Duke won its first outright Atlantic Coast Conference title since 1962 and threw the College Football Playoff into chaos Saturday night when Darian Mensah connected with Jeremiah Hasley for a 1-yard touchdown on a fourth-down play in overtime."
Chicago Tribune"To bring a championship to this school, which is primarily known for basketball, is a statement that me and the seniors on this team have been trying to make."
Associated Press"Duke’s victory in the ACC title game has sparked excitement among fans of other schools, as it opens up the possibility for a College Football Playoff bid for James Madison University."
Associated PressArticles (4)
Center (3)
FAQ
Duke last won the outright ACC football championship in 1962.
Duke’s victory disrupted the College Football Playoff landscape by making the Blue Devils unlikely to receive a playoff bid, opening a possible spot for a second Group of Five team such as James Madison.
Virginia's loss prevented them from reaching the College Football Playoff for the first time in school history.
The ACC commissioner is Jim Phillips, who advocated for two ACC bids in the College Football Playoff, suggesting selections include No. 12 Miami and the winner of the Duke-Virginia game.
In overtime, Duke's Darian Mensah threw a 1-yard touchdown pass to Jeremiah Hasley on a fourth-down play, securing a 27-20 win. Mensah totaled 196 passing yards and two touchdowns, both to Hasley, and running back Nate Sheppard ran for 97 yards and a score.
History
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