Overview
- Unranked Duke finished 8-5 and is widely expected to rank behind conference champions Tulane (AAC) and James Madison (Sun Belt) for automatic bids under CFP rules.
- Duke sealed the 27-20 win with a fourth-down 1-yard touchdown pass from Darian Mensah to Jeremiah Hasley in overtime, followed by Luke Mergott’s interception on Virginia’s first OT snap.
- With the five champion slots likely set elsewhere, the ACC’s best remaining route is No. 12 Miami earning an at-large berth over other contenders such as Notre Dame and Alabama.
- ACC commissioner Jim Phillips and Duke coach Manny Diaz publicly pressed the committee for inclusion, arguing the league and its champion merit consideration.
- A complete shutout could have major financial consequences for the ACC, with one analysis estimating up to $116 million in lost CFP distributions if no team is selected.