:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65138271/usa_today_11913551.0.jpg)
After a long wait, (well, besides one forgetful game last weekend between Florida and Miami) college football has returned. What’s more, Week One in 2019 expects to provide us with something extra special, given that several ACC teams match up with each other in honor of the conference network recently going live.
Virginia Cavaliers at Pittsburgh Panthers
If you haven’t heard already, the Wahoos are heading to Pittsburgh to do battle with the Panthers on Saturday evening. In what might be UVA’s most important in-conference game of the season (I know, Virginia Tech matters, too), Head Coach Bronco Mendenhall will try to upend a team who he hasn’t beaten since coming to Charlottesville.
TV - ACC Network, 7:30 PM
:format(webp):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19129415/usa_today_11685461.jpg)
Virginia Tech Hokies at Boston College Eagles
Much like Virginia’s game, the Hokies’ opener in Chestnut Hill could prove crucial down the stretch in the race for the Coastal crown. Currently 4.5 point favorites, Virginia Tech, who lost to Boston College last year by ten points at home, will look to ride quarterback Ryan Willis and an expectedly stouter defense up front to a win.
TV - ACC Network, 4:00 PM
Boise State Broncos vs. Florida State Seminoles
Saturday night’s game between these two storied programs should give us an indication as to how far Florida State has progressed at the start of year two under Willie Taggart. That will be important to know, considering UVA gets the Seminoles in just two weeks.
TV - ESPN, 7:00 PM
North Carolina Tar Heels vs. South Carolina Gamecocks
Can Mack Brown earn a statement win in his return to North Carolina against a solid SEC opponent in South Carolina? Suffice it to say, this is a big opportunity for the Tar Heels, who recently named true freshman Sam Howell the starting quarterback. At the same time, it’s also an important game for bowl eligibility, given that three of UNC’s following four contests come against Miami, Appalachian State - one of the stronger non-Power 5 teams - and Clemson.
TV - ESPN, 3:30 PM
:format(webp):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19129420/usa_today_11913491.jpg)
Duke Blue Devils vs. Alabama Crimson Tide
Duke gets Nick Saban’s Crimson Tide in Week One’s annual Chick-Fil-A Kickoff Game. Don’t expect this one to be close.
TV - ABC, 3:30 PM