"This is a program that hasn't won an ACC title since joining the league in 2004, and now the Canes have positioned themselves as not only the top playoff contender in the conference, but also as the top team in the country. It's still early, but statement wins are hard to come by, and Miami's collective résumé now includes wins against Notre Dame, a ranked South Florida and rival Florida."
"Why they could be here: With wins against Notre Dame, South Florida and now rival Florida, Miami has the best combination of eye test and résumé. It didn't come easy against the Gators, but Miami's defense was stifling for the bulk of the game. The selection committee considers the intangibles that accompany a rivalry game, and would acknowledge the difficulty of the win, even though Florida is struggling this year."
Miami's victory over rival Florida, along with earlier wins against Notre Dame and a ranked South Florida, has strengthened its national profile. The program, a five-time champion between 1983 and 2001, has not won an ACC title since joining the league in 2004 but now positions itself as the conference's leading playoff contender. Miami's defense performed strongly against Florida, and the résumé of wins provides both an eye test and quality results for national consideration. Ohio State remains a contender based on perceived talent, but Miami's combination of résumé, rivalry win significance, and consistent performance gives it a strong case for a top ranking.
Read at ESPN.com
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