While the ACC is known as more of a hoops conference than a football league, there are a few teams that could make some noise on a national level this season. At least half of the schools in the conference have a realistic shot of contending for the ACC crown this season. Here’s a look at the top three favorites and a live sleeper in the 2010 race:

1. Florida State Seminoles (+250 odds to win ACC in 2010)

For the first time since 1975, someone other than Bobby Bowden will be on the sidelines coaching the Seminoles. New head coach Jimbo Fisher has plenty of offensive talent to work with in 2010. Senior quarterback Christian Ponder is projected to be one of the top signal-callers in the country heading into this season. On the ground, junior running back Jermaine Thomas emerged to record four 100-yard rushing efforts in the second half of the season. The defense must take some big strides after being one of the weaker units in the nation a year ago. With the exception of a trip to Miami, the conference slate is favorable.

2. Miami Hurricanes (+250 odds to win ACC in 2010)

After recording its best season in several years in 2009, the Hurricanes could be poised to reach its first ACC title game in 2010. With junior quarterback Jacory Harris leading the way, the offense has plenty of potential. The defense also has some talent but will need to become more consistent. Miami will get ready for the conference schedule with a couple of difficult road contests in September. The Hurricanes will travel to Ohio State and Pittsburgh in non-conference play. Miami will get to host Florida State, North Carolina and Virginia Tech in 2010.

3. Virginia Tech Hokies (+400 odds to win ACC in 2010)

The Hokies failed to reach the conference championship game last season after winning consecutive ACC titles in 2007-08. Some outstanding depth at running back will give the club a good shot to be in the title chase in 2010. Sophomore Ryan Williams burst onto the scene as a freshman to rush for over 1,600 yards with 21 touchdowns. He replaced the injured Darren Evans, who rushed for more than 1,200 yards as a freshman in 2008. The passing game will be seeking more consistency from junior quarterback Tyrod Taylor. As usual, the Hokies are expected to be strong on defense and special teams. November road games at North Carolina and Miami could be decisive for Virginia Tech.

BEST ROI PICK: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (+1000 odds to win ACC in 2010)

The defending ACC champions aren’t getting much respect heading into 2010. A couple of key offensive losses will make it difficult for Georgia Tech to repeat. The Yellow Jackets must replace running back Jonathan Dwyer (1,395 rushing yards in 2009) and wideout Demaryius Thomas (1,154 receiving yards in 2009) this season. However, the return of senior quarterback Josh Nesbitt (1,037 rushing yards, 18 touchdowns in 2009) should enable the club’s triple option offense to stay on track in 2010. The Yellow Jackets must survive a conference slate that features trips to North Carolina, Clemson and Virginia Tech.

Vegas Odds to win ACC Football Title in 2010:

1. Florida State +250
2. Miami +250
3. Virginia Tech +400
4. North Carolina +500
5. Boston College +800
6. Clemson +800
7. Georgia Tech +1000
8. North Carolina State +1500
9. Virginia +2000
10. Wake Forest +2500
11. Maryland +5000
12. Duke +5000

(Place Your Bets now on who you think will win the ACC)

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