The ACC had a chance about eight-ten years ago to really make a dent. Clemson and FSU were both good. Louisville was solid. Miami was decent. But the conference could never capitalize on its momentum.
Always a basketball first conference, didn't sign a good tv deal and now they are in the position they are in. Doesn't help that Miami, VT, Clemson and FSU haven't all been good at the same time in like the last 20 years.