Day three of ACC Media Days brought notable discussions. SMU Mustangs head coach Rhett Lashlee took the stage in Charlotte on Friday morning. He shared insights on the upcoming season for the 2024 ACC Champions. Topics included the team’s coordinators and the competitive nature within the conference.
College Football Playoff Talks
Lashlee highlighted a key issue concerning the College Football Playoff (CFP). During his remarks, he commended the Duke Blue Devils for their 2025 ACC victory. This mention may have stirred some tensions, particularly with James Madison University (JMU) fans.
Lashlee expressed that an ACC champion should qualify for the CFP. Upcoming alterations to the rules address this concern. Each Power 4 conference champion will secure a Playoff spot. This change brings optimism for the Mustangs, projected as leaders in 2026.
Controversy and Reactions
Lashlee’s comments suggested skepticism towards JMU’s 2025 CFP berth. Under previous rules, the top five ranked conference champs received automatic bids. Although Duke finished 8-5 and unranked, JMU earned their spot as a Group of 6 representative alongside Tulane.
Lashlee’s viewpoint on power conference winners receiving due recognition sparked mixed reactions. Many JMU fans voiced their displeasure online, criticizing his opinion. Lashlee might face a chilly reception in Harrisonburg, Virginia after this.
Discussing Alternatives
Some suggest Notre Dame deserved CFP consideration over Duke or James Madison, but that remains a separate debate. App State’s fumble recovery against JMU in 2024 demonstrated the unpredictability of college football.
An SMU vs. JMU Playoff matchup could provide thrilling entertainment should it happen. Meanwhile, Lashlee is unlikely to see leadership opportunities at JMU anytime soon.