Before Florida State’s loss, it was basically neck and neck in the ACC, but now Clemson can only lose.

The start of this season is a gauntlet. Although it’s technically a neutral-site game, Clemson begins the season by traveling to Georgia State to play the No. 1-ranked Bulldogs. Then they face Florida State and NC State in their next four games. To have a chance at the ACC title, the Tigers will need to get through this stretch with just one or two losses to keep playoff hopes alive.

However, Georgia Tech’s win over the Seminoles yesterday in Ireland has given Clemson some breathing room. Clemson could lose the game against Georgia and one more this season and still reach the ACC championship game. That doesn’t give the Tigers a free pass against Florida State, though. If Clemson loses the game against FSU but both teams finish the rest of the season undefeated in the conference, FSU has the tiebreaker.

Thankfully, FSU doesn’t look remotely like a top-10 team right now. Their defense – which should be their strength this season – allowed several dangerous plays from Georgia Tech. Their pass defense was OK, allowing just 146 yards and zero touchdowns, but the Yellowjackets ran over Florida State for 190 yards and three touchdowns.

Needless to say, I think the Tigers’ chances are much better. Of course, it still won’t be easy to win the ACC, but at least Clemson can stretch its proverbial legs.