How back is The U? Can Clemson rebound? Previewing the ACC (and Notre Dame)

The ACC is heating up and it's not just about the football - although that's certainly a big part of it. As we preview the upcoming season, all eyes are on Miami, the defending champs, to see if they can repeat. But don't count out Duke, Clemson, and UNC just yet. Each of these teams has a strong case to make a deep run, and with the ever-changing landscape of college athletics, there's plenty of intrigue to go around.

Clemson, in particular, is looking to rebound after a somewhat disappointing season last year. With a revamped roster and renewed focus, the Tigers are looking to take back their spot atop the ACC. Meanwhile, Notre Dame is looking to make a statement as a newcomer to the conference. As we head into the season, it's clear that the ACC is wide open, and fans are eagerly awaiting the kickoff.

So what to watch next? Keep an eye on Miami's quarterback situation, as they look to replace some key talent. Also, keep tabs on Clemson's revamped defense, which could be the key to their success this season. And don't sleep on Duke, who are looking to pull off some revenge after a tough loss last year. With so many storylines at play, the ACC is shaping up to be one of the most exciting conferences to watch this season.

Originally reported by espn.com. MotosportNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.