When will the ACC championship game be played in 2026?

The ACC championship game in 2026 will be played in the noon Saturday window, a change from its usual evening slot and the first time since 2008.

What are some notable games on the ACC's 2026 schedule?

The 2026 ACC schedule includes international games in Week 0, with North Carolina playing TCU in Dublin, Ireland, and NC State facing Virginia in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

How many conference games will ACC teams play in 2026?

In 2026, most ACC teams will play a nine-game conference schedule, with five teams playing eight conference games.

Home / Sports / ACC Shifts Championship Game to Noon Slot

ACC Shifts Championship Game to Noon Slot

27 Jan

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Summary

ACC championship game moves to noon Saturday, a first since 2008.
2026 schedule includes international games in Dublin and Rio de Janeiro.
ACC transitions to a nine-game conference slate in 2026.

ACC Shifts Championship Game to Noon Slot

For the first time since 2008, the ACC will hold its championship game in the noon Saturday window on championship weekend. This strategic move, announced with the 2026 schedule, aims to place the conference in a prime television slot. The ACC's 2026 schedule release also highlighted a busy opening weekend with games spread over multiple days and two international contests during Week 0.

This earlier kickoff time for the championship game is intended to attract more viewers and fans to Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. It also ensures a more comfortable experience for attendees, given the league's outdoor stadium and past cold temperatures. The conference is also embracing Friday nights, scheduling at least 19 games for that slot in 2026.

The 2026 season will see the ACC adopt a nine-game conference schedule for most teams, with a few exceptions playing eight games. This marks a move towards greater conference play uniformity. The season kicks off internationally, with North Carolina facing TCU in Dublin and NC State playing Virginia in Rio de Janeiro.