ACC Media Days took a surprising turn when SMU Mustangs head coach Rhett Lashlee addressed the media. Speaking at the event in Charlotte, Lashlee shared insights about the upcoming season and expressed strong opinions about the College Football Playoff (CFP) structure.

Lashlee praised Duke Blue Devils for their achievement in winning the ACC in 2025. However, his comments stirred controversy, particularly in Harrisonburg, Virginia. At the core of the discussion was the belief that the ACC champion should have received a spot in the CFP.

Moving forward, the structure of the CFP guarantees each Power 4 conference champion an automatic berth. This is promising news for the Mustangs, who are projected to finish strong in the league in 2026.

During the media session, Lashlee remarked on the inclusion of a ‘team from the Sun Belt’ in the 2025 CFP, referring to James Madison University. Under the previous CFP rules, the top five ranked conference champions earned automatic qualifications. The Duke Blue Devils were 8-5 and unranked in the final CFP rankings, allowing JMU Dukes a CFP berth along with Tulane.

Lashlee suggested that Duke’s 2025 performance didn’t merit a CFP spot, as they lost to Group of 6 opponent Tulane and Independent UConn. His remarks met criticism from JMU supporters, who voiced their disapproval online.

Lashlee’s comments have likely tarnished his rapport with fans in Rockingham County. Some also argued that Notre Dame should have been considered for the CFP before Duke or James Madison, an issue that remains open for debate.

Despite the contentious views, a potential SMU vs. JMU matchup in the Playoff could captivate audiences. It’s evident that Lashlee’s future connection to a coaching role at James Madison appears unlikely.