The 2025 ACC football schedule is here, and fans are ready to roll! Clemson aims to keep its crown, while Florida State fights to rise again after a hard drop from top to bottom. The season is still months away, but the buzz is growing for big games, heated rivalries, and another thrilling ride this fall! And when a new schedule drops, everyone asks the same question—who has the toughest road ahead? We now know the home and away games, but how they stack up can make all the difference. But when things got really tough, all signs said a CFB underdog would win. It’s going to be a wild ride!
On Feb. 1, Spencer McLaughlin and Jackson Holzer dropped a bold take on Locked On Syracuse—the ultimate CFB underdog is none other than Syracuse. The Orange defied all expectations this season, posting an impressive 10-3 record in Fran Brown’s debut year, culminating in a stunning upset over Miami that knocked the Hurricanes out of playoff contention. But next season? It won’t be easy. The ACC has cranked up the heat, handing Syracuse an even tougher schedule. “Somehow, someway, the ACC said, ‘Let’s give Syracuse a harder schedule!’ What are the Orange going to do here after a 10-win season for Fran Brown?” said McLaughlin.
But Jackson fired back, saying, “It’s not just the ACC—it’s also the non-conference too.” However, as per schedule, Syracuse will battle four teams from the 2024 CFP—Tennessee (Aug. 30), Clemson (Sept. 20), SMU (Oct. 4), and Notre Dame (Nov. 22). Three of those games hit in the first half of the season, with the Irish—last year’s runner-ups—waiting in the final stretch. So, the road ahead is brutal, but the Orange isn’t backing down!
Following that, Jackson mentioned, “Who thought playing Tennessee and Notre Dame in the same year was a good idea? Sure, they’re getting a lot of money for it, but as far as wins and losses, if Syracuse can go one and one against Tennessee and Notre Dame next year, that’s a win.” And he’s got a point.
Going 1-1 in that stretch could mean the Orange are a 9- or even 10-win team, proving they’re the real deal. And with a brutal schedule ahead, every big win counts. On top of that, they will have a rematch with the Canes on Nov 8th. So, buckle up, Syracuse fans—it’s going to be a fight!
However, Tennessee can be up and down, but with their young quarterback and last year’s success, they should be strong again. And Notre Dame? A national semifinalist. No doubt, this road is rough. It won’t be easy for the Orange, but if they can hang tough, they just might surprise everyone!
Besides Syracuse, which other ACC teams are staring down a brutal 2025 schedule?
Miami and Florida State face a tough test, wrapping up their seasons with back-to-back away games—talk about a brutal finish! Meanwhile, Stanford, Georgia Tech, and NC State get a bit of a break, ending their seasons with back-to-back home games. Whether it’s tough roads or cozy home fields, these teams will have plenty to prove as the season comes to a close!
Moreover, the 2025 Dome schedule features two nine-win teams from last season—Duke and UConn—plus fierce rivals Pitt and Boston College, a North Carolina squad fresh off a bowl appearance, and the legendary Bill Belichick leading the way. Don’t forget about the local showdown with Colgate. It’s going to be an unforgettable ride.
But it’s too early to pick the top dogs in the ACC, with coaching changes and transfer portal moves still shaking things up. Since the ACC’s start, only six schools have claimed the title, so expect a few powerhouse teams to be gunning for that shiny trophy in 2025. The race is wide open, and the chase is on. Now’s the time to lock in your spot for the thrilling 2025 season and be part of the action with Syracuse football!
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