ACC Basketball: Duke falls, North Carolina rises in latest power rankings

ACC Basketball: Duke falls flat, North Carolina rises in latest power rankings

CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 02: Caleb Love #2 of the North Carolina Tar Heels reacts following a play during the first half of their game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Dean Smith Center on January 02, 2021 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /

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ACC Basketball Clemson Olivier-Maxence Prosper Aamir Simms Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Clemson Tigers (12-5, 6-5)

After a three-game losing streak, the Tigers have come back to win three of four, including wins over Louisville, North Carolina, and Syracuse. A few years ago, this kind of trio of victories would have Clemson a ton of national press. But at least they’re now above .500 in ACC play and back to “safe” territory in projected fields of 68.

The Tigers have a real chance to make a run in the last few weeks of the ACC. After Georgia Tech on Friday, their best remaining opponent will be Pittsburgh, who they’re scheduled to play twice. If Clemson can continue winning, they’ll get back to the national top-25.

5. North Carolina Tar Heels (12-6, 7-4)

It may not have had the same kind of national attention since neither is currently ranked, but Saturday’s matchup with the Duke Blue Devils still turned into another classic. The Tar Heels won 91-87, with six players in double figures. They were led by an outstanding 25 points and seven assists from freshman Caleb Love, who could be turning the corner late into the season.

UNC has now won four of five games and excusing the Miami issue this past week, are on a positive level of momentum. They’re still right on the bubble with a pair of massive matchups against both Virginia and Virginia Tech. Get at least a split and they’ll be in a very solid position to go dancing.