Rhett Lashlee Stirs Controversy at ACC Media Days

At ACC Media Days, SMU Mustangs head coach Rhett Lashlee stirred conversation as he took the podium in Charlotte. Lashlee addressed the 2024 ACC season, focusing on his team’s coordinators and the parity across the conference. These elements are crucial in shaping the College Football Playoff (CFP) picture.

Lashlee’s Take on College Football Playoff

Lashlee used the opportunity to commend the Duke Blue Devils for their 2025 ACC championship. This move however raised eyebrows, especially among those supporting James Madison University (JMU). The coach highlighted that an ACC champion deserves a spot in the CFP. Upcoming changes ensure each champion from the Power 4 conferences will secure a CFP berth, a relief particularly for Lashlee’s Mustangs, who aim to excel in 2026.

Lashlee and the CFP Debate

Lashlee’s comments triggered debate. His reference to “a team from the Sun Belt” seemingly alluded to JMU, who navigated to the CFP via previous qualifying rules. In 2025, automatic bids went to the five top-ranked conference champions. Despite finishing 8-5 and unranked, Duke didn’t receive an automatic CFP spot, which went instead to JMU and Tulane.

Lashlee argued in favor of honoring power conference champions, suggesting that the current format better supports a competitive lineup. He noted that Duke’s losses to Tulane and UConn might have negated their CFP candidacy that year. This opinion faced backlash from JMU fans who voiced their displeasure online. Lashlee might find himself unwelcome in Rockingham County for a while.

Potential Matchups and Future Considerations

The possibility of a SMU vs. JMU matchup in the Playoff could provide thrilling football for fans. Meanwhile, should the head coaching position at James Madison open, Lashlee’s name might not be on the list of candidates.