The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) just announced its football schedule for 2026, and it’s a big deal! Starting in 2026, the ACC will shift to a nine-game conference schedule. This change is aimed at making the league more competitive and aligning it with other major conferences.
ACC Commissioner, Jim Phillips, shared that this transition is part of a bigger plan to provide a top-notch experience for fans, players, and coaches. He emphasized the importance of competitive fairness and scheduling flexibility.
In September, athletic directors from all 17 teams voted overwhelmingly in favor of this new structure. The new schedule will include at least 10 games each year against top opponents from other major conferences, which they call the “Power Four.”
2026 Schedule Highlights:
Transition Year: The 2026 season will act as a bridge to the new nine-game model. Twelve teams will play nine ACC games, while five teams will have eight conference games. This allows for existing contract obligations to be met.
Focus on Power Four: Every team must face a minimum of 10 Power Four opponents each season. This means playing either nine ACC games plus one significant matchup or eight ACC games with two big non-conference games.
Scheduling Balance: With 17 teams in the ACC, not every team can play against all others every year. The league will rotate opponents to maintain fairness over multiple seasons.
In 2027, the plan expands. Most teams will play nine ACC games each year, but one will play eight games to keep up with the 10 Power Four game requirement.
Recent trends show that leagues and conferences are moving towards more challenging schedules. In a survey by the NCAA, a majority of college football coaches supported having more high-stakes games in the regular season, believing it prepares teams better for postseason play.
The full schedule, complete with dates, will be revealed in late January. Fans are eagerly awaited the matchups and potential rivalries that could emerge from this new structure.
This change isn’t just about games; it’s a move to enhance the entire football experience for everyone involved. The ACC is gearing up for a thrilling few seasons ahead!
