The ACC is About to Welcome Three New Members

By Eric Boggs from The OHIO Podcast

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) will welcome three new members – SMU, Stanford, and California – into its fold ahead of the 2024 season. Stanford and Cal were previously affiliated with the Pac-12 conference, while SMU was a member of the AAC (American Athletic Conference).

How will these three programs fare in one of college football’s premier conferences?

Stanford Cardinal

Stanford has been part of the Pac-12 since 2012 but will now compete in the ACC, necessitating cross-country travel for its games.

Stanford’s head coach, Troy Taylor, will embark on his second season leading the team after a challenging 3-9 finish in 2023. Taylor, who previously coached at Sacramento State, aims to revitalize the program. Stanford faced difficulties on both offense and defense last season, allowing an average of 37.6 points per game defensively and struggling to gain ground offensively.

However, there are bright spots for the Cardinal, including rising star wide receiver Elic Ayomanor, who had a breakout season in 2023. Quarterback Ashton Daniels also returns for Stanford, aiming to improve upon his performance from last season.

SMU Mustangs

SMU had a solid 2023 campaign, starting 2-2 before stringing together nine consecutive wins to close out the regular season. The team’s success was bolstered by its defense, which ranked 12th nationally in total defense, allowing only 4.5 yards per play.

Key defensive players like Elijah Roberts, Ahmad Walker, and Kobe Wilson are set to return in 2024, providing continuity and experience. Quarterback Preston Stone, despite suffering a broken leg injury late in the season, had an impressive performance last year and will be a key player to watch.

Cal Golden Bears

The Golden Bears have struggled to achieve a winning season since 2019, under the leadership of head coach Justin Wilcox since 2017. As they transition to the ACC, they will rely on offensive weapons like running back Jadyn Ott, who had a standout season in 2023.

Quarterback uncertainty looms for Cal, with Fernando Mendoza projected as the starter but competition from transfer quarterback Chandler Rogers. Mendoza showed promise last season but also threw interceptions, while Rogers brings experience and success from his time at North Texas.

The addition of SMU, Stanford, and California brings new dynamics to the ACC, with each team facing its own set of challenges and opportunities as they enter the conference.