The ACC had been a two-horse race between Clemson and Florida State for more than 10 years. But as the 2026 season approaches, half the competition seems to be in a freefall with no floor in sight.
The Florida State Seminoles, who finished a dismal 5-7 season, are in a crisis of identity and results. Clemson has maintained a sense of competitive relevance in spite of its own recent frustrations; FSU has cratered. However, the future for Mike Norvell’s program is getting bleaker and bleaker, FOX Sports analyst Joel Klatt said.
“Florida State was down bad last year, and there really isn’t any light at the end of that tunnel,” Klatt said on The Joel Klatt Show.