ACC Week 9: Impressive Defensive Showings From Frontrunners

© Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

With 11th ranked Clemson (6-1, 5-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) on a bye and 20th ranked SMU (7-1, 4-0) having narrowly escaped Duke (6-2, 2-2), Week 9 of the ACC football season showcased the defensive prowess of both the No. 5-ranked Miami Hurricanes (8-0, 4-0) and No. 18-ranked Pitt Panthers (7-0, 4-0), with each team delivering impressive performances.

Miami Hurricanes: A Resilient Defense

Although quarterback Cam Ward grabbed most of the headlines, the Miami Hurricanes' defense was a cornerstone of their early success this season. However, they had struggled recently, allowing an average of 39 points over the three previous games.

On Oct 26, the Hurricanes managed to hold Florida State (1-7, 1-6) to just two scores in a 36-14 victory. Although the Seminoles are in the middle of a shockingly disappointing season, a heated rivalry game can never be overlooked.

FSU coach Mike Norvell benched quarterback Brock Glenn in the first half, after the freshman quarterback completed just 5 passes on 18 attempts. Luke Kroemenhoek, his successor, didn’t fare much better. Although he did throw for a touchdown in garbage time and also broke off a 50-yard rush earlier, he was just 6-of-14 for the game.

Linemen Akheem Mesidor, Reuben Bain, Jr and Simeon Barrow, Jr each recorded a sack, part of a successful effort to pressure the Seminole quarterbacks all night long. This ability to disrupt the opposing team's backfield has been crucial in Miami's undefeated run in ACC play.

Coming into their game against FSU, Miami led the Power Four in quarterback pressures.

Pitt Panthers: Dominant and Opportunistic

Pitt’s defense has been nothing short of dominant this season, and their Week 9 performance against Syracuse (5-2, 2-2) on Oct. 26 was a perfect example of their capabilities. Pitt's defense recorded 5 interceptions, returning three for touchdowns, in their 41-13 victory, showcasing their ability to capitalize on mistakes and turn them into points. Even more impressive, they did it against Syracuse gunslinger Kyle McCord, who has been a solid presence at quarterback this season.

Pitt's defensive line, led by standout players like Nate Matlack and Sean FitzSimmons, has been a force to be reckoned with. Their ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt the opposing team's passing game has been a key factor in their success. Additionally, the Panthers' linebackers, including Rasheem Biles, Kyle Louis and Braylan Lovelace, have been instrumental in shutting down the run and making crucial tackles.

Impact on the Season

The defensive potentials of both Miami and Pitt have had a significant impact on the ACC season. Miami's ability to hold opponents to low scores has complemented their high-powered offense, making them a well-rounded and formidable team.

Pitt's opportunistic defense has allowed them to win games in convincing fashion, solidifying their position as a top contender in the conference.

Looking Ahead

With the ACC season heating up, the focus will be on whether Miami and Pitt can maintain their defensive excellence. For Miami, the challenge will be to continue improving their tackling and limiting big plays. For Pitt, the goal will be to sustain their turnover-creating ability.

As fans and analysts alike watch the remainder of the season, the performances of these two defenses will be a major storyline. The ACC is known for its competitive and unpredictable nature, and the defensive prowess of Miami and Pitt will be a key factor in determining the conference's champion.