But the facts remain the same. The ACC holds every ounce of leverage, and Clemson and FSU saying they’ll stay in the league only under their terms is the ultimate walk-back, a desperation play. Which in turn means if the ACC goes along, it’s only offering those schools the dollar-lined off-ramp they’re desperately seeking.

All the talk this summer has been about the Clemson Tigers and the Florida State Seminoles trying to get away from the ACC. That may still happen, but according to an ESPN report on Tuesday night, the two schools and the conference may not be done just yet.