That Miami schedule argument falls apart when you look at their actual performance against quality teams. They went 2-3 against teams with winning records last year, and that defensive number you're so proud of, 8.1 yards per play allowed, is massively skewed by playing Bethune-Cookman and Temple. Against Florida State and Louisville, they gave up over 10 yards per pass attempt. Their "gauntlet" includes a Florida team that went 5-7 and a Virginia Tech team they lost to. Meanwhile, NC State's defense finished top 20 in scoring defense and returns nine starters, including a secondary that held opponents to a 54% completion rate. Miami's top recruiting classes haven't translated to ACC titles in over 20 years, and their quarterback room is a question mark after losing Tyler Van Dyke. The committee also values wins, and Miami has a habit of dropping games they're favored in, like last year against Georgia Tech. Their non-conference trip to Florida is less impressive when you consider the Gators' offensive line ranked outside the top 100 in sacks allowed. Depth doesn't matter if your coaching staff can't develop it, and Mario Cristobal's in-game management has cost them close games repeatedly. The real separator is winning your division, something Miami hasn't done since joining the ACC.