ACC more than survived, it thrived. Miami in the College Football Playoff final is proof

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), once seen as vulnerable during recent college sports realignments, is proving its strength as Miami, a team that tied for second in the conference, advances to the College Football Playoff (CFP) national title game against Indiana. Despite ACC champion Duke being overlooked for the playoffs due to its five losses, Miami secured the last at-large spot over Notre Dame, marking a significant achievement for the conference.

Miami's success in reaching the final has been highlighted as a validation of the selection committee's decision. The ACC has demonstrated strong postseason performance, with a 9-4 record, including victories over other Power Four teams. The conference has also played the most games against Power Four opponents, boasting 14 wins, the highest among the Power Four conferences.

A notable development involves Miami receiving the entire $20 million playoff share, as part of a new "success incentives" initiative. This change was implemented after Florida State and Clemson sued the ACC, fearing they would be left