On Monday afternoon, the ACC released the preseason media poll for the conference. To no one’s surprise, the Clemson Tigers are the overwhelming pick to win the Atlantic Division and the overall Conference Championship.

But, to my — and many other’s surprise — it is not the Miami Hurricanes who are picked to win the Coastal Division. The Canes are picked 2nd behind the Virginia Cavaliers.

A 1,003-992 point margin between Virginia and Miami is very close, obviously. But, Virginia has an 82-55 edge in 1st place votes, which is quite sizeable. That also means plenty of people are picking Miami 2nd in the Division with or without Virginia being in the top spot, so that’s encouraging? or something?

It is for good reason that I take umbrage with this projection. Miami has the most talented team in the Coastal Division BY FAR and a schedule that should be easily conducive towards 9 or 10 regular season wins.

The counterpoint to any positive statement to be made about Miami in this regard is the clear and present recent history for the Canes, which is littered with season after season of underachievement relative to the talent on the roster. And yes, Virginia fan, I know that Miami lost to the Cavaliers 16-13 last year. I just do not think that will happen again in 2019.

So there you have it: Manny Diaz’s Canes are picked 2nd in the Coastal Division to start the 2019 season. That’s fine. Doubt us if you want to.

But I’m gonna let you in on a little secret: Miami’s gonna win the Coastal. Sorry to spoil the season for you in July, but that’s just what’s gonna happen. Debate your grandma who doesn’t know how to season her food.

And that’s all I have to say about that.

Go Canes