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Pat McAfee picks North Carolina as the ACC football champion

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 10:11 PM

Last updated Sep 5, 2026

Pat McAfee picks North Carolina as the ACC football champion

Summary

The North Carolina football team opened its 2026 season with a 15-10 victory over TCU in Ireland. Following the win, ESPN analyst Pat McAfee identified the Tar Heels as his pick to claim the ACC Championship. While McAfee supported the program, fellow College GameDay analysts Desmond Howard and Nick Saban selected Miami (FL) to win the conference, as did guest picker Lainey Wilson. North Carolina last captured an ACC title in 1980 under the guidance of former running back Amos Lawrence. The Tar Heels are currently on a bye week and will host ETSU at Kenan Stadium on September 12. Following the home opener, the team travels to face Clemson on September 19 for its first conference matchup of the season.

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By the Numbers

•North Carolina defeated TCU 15-10 during the Week Zero game in Ireland.
•Pat McAfee selected North Carolina to win the ACC Championship.
•Desmond Howard, Nick Saban, and Lainey Wilson picked Miami (FL) to win the conference.
•North Carolina hosts ETSU on September 12 before playing Clemson on September 19.
•The program has not secured an ACC title since 1980.

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