What are the big questions in ACC basketball this week?
Can Clemson really win the ACC Regular Season Title?
This question seemed absurd a few weeks ago, but now that Clemson is 5-0 after beating Virginia Tech and Pittsburgh on the road, it is certainly in the realm of possibility. Clemson has a good balance of experience, and the ability to score from multiple positions. Hunter Tyson might be having an All-ACC season. The Tigers should be able to take care of Louisville before facing Duke at home with a chance to get to 7-0 in the ACC. Clemson only has to play Virginia, UNC, and Miami once as well. Yea this can really happen at the moment.
How much trouble is Virginia Tech in?
Virginia Tech’s slide started with an inexplicable loss at Boston College, then the Hokies just kept losing. They now sit 11-5 (1-4) in the ACC. Without Hunter Cattoor, Virginia Tech’s perimeter shooting has gone south. He should be returning soon, but if we ask how much trouble is Virginia Tech in? It should be pretty concerning. The problem is the Hokie’s last two losses were at home to NC State and Clemson. That’s two other teams trying to position for the NCAA Tournament. Now they have their next 3 road – Syracuse, Virginia, and Clemson. That makes a game Syracuse a virtual must-win. If the Hokies come out of that stretch 1-7, or even 2-6 it might be too much to overcome even when Cattoor returns.
Who makes a move this week?
Clemson and NC State made massive moves this past week. Who will it be this week? The winner of the Virginia and UNC game looks like a good possibility. Both teams have shown glimpses of being Final 4 capable, or early NCAA exits. If Virginia wins they’ll play at Florida State in a game they’ll be pretty heavily favored. North Carolina will go to Louisville. This is a crucial game, as the loser will have their third ACC loss.
