I'm not arguing that the ACC has great teams and a rich history of national championships. The Gaits and Powells are my heros.
But, I do think Syracuse, Notre Dame, and Virginia are over rated this year. Syracuse and Virginia's performance in multiple out of conference head to head games is evidence that they belong outside of the the top 5. Notre Dame plays a style that lets them dominate and go on big goal scoring streaks. They have great face off guys and play make it, take it. But, their only quality win is Syracuse which is ranked 9th. When I look at the puts and takes for ND vs DU, I don't see them above Denver and I would love to hear an objective argument to prove me wrong.
However, there is not enough to sway everyone in the media based on their preconceived opinions. I love the Anchoring (cognitive bias) post. It is very true.
Rankings only really matter on selection day Sunday when a team gets knocked out of the tournament due to bias. The media poll also does not matter. But, the coaches poll does matter more this year than ever as the selection committee will need to rely on it.