Day 3 of ACC Media Days: Rekindling Rivalries

The excitement on Day 3 of ACC Media Days didn’t disappoint! Rhett Lashley, head coach of the SMU Mustangs, took the stage Friday morning in Charlotte, looking ahead to the 2024 season for the ACC Champions.

He touched on various topics, including the Mustangs’ offensive and defensive coordinators, the parity in the conference, and what that means for the broader context of the College Football Playoff.

Elko’s Take on CFP Expansion

Lashley gave a nod to the Duke Blue Devils, suggesting they have a genuine shot at winning the ACC in 2025. But, in doing so, he could have stirred the pot a bit down in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

There’s quite a bit to consider here. For starters, Lashley argues that last year’s ACC champion should have made it into the College Football Playoff, which is a bold stance.

Looking ahead, Lashley and others in the ACC shouldn’t be too concerned since each Power 4 conference champion is assured a spot in the playoffs.

A Bright Future for the Mustangs?

This is encouraging news, especially for the Mustangs, projected to be at the top of the conference in 2026. However, let’s delve into some of Lashley’s more provocative remarks.

When he referred to a “Sun Belt team,” it likely pointed to James Madison University, which capitalized on the previous year’s rules to enter the playoffs.

While the 2025 conference champions secured automatic bids, the Blue Devils found themselves at 8-5 after the conference championships, ultimately missing out as the JMU Dukes earned a playoff slot instead.

I admire the idea of rewarding power conference champions for their efforts, and this year’s format seems to cater well to a competitive environment. Still, if any year was questionable for the ACC champions making the playoffs, it would have to be last year, particularly since Duke lost to Tulane and an independent UConn.

Interestingly, after a rather unflattering scene involving JMU fans and On3 reporter Brett McMurphy, Lashley sharply criticized the reactions.

It seems likely that Lashley won’t be receiving a warm greeting in Rockingham County anytime soon.

There’s also a case to be made for Notre Dame potentially deserving a playoff spot over Duke or James Madison, but that’s a different discussion altogether.

Anticipating Future Matchups

Regardless, a showdown between SMU and JMU in the playoffs would certainly be worth watching. Here’s hoping they meet down the line.

And if there happens to be a head coaching job open for James Madison soon? Well, don’t count on Lashley’s name making the list of possibilities there.