I agree with these rankings, in all respects. The Cards are going into the 2015 season predicted as the third best in their division. I think that is about right. In fact NC State has a good argument for being #3, rated above the Cards.
The first six games of the season are going to be very difficult for the Cards. Those First Six may make or break the season:
Auburn(N), Houston, Clemson, @NC State and @Florida State, (plus Samford).
By Oct 17th, we will all know what this team is made of. If they could go 5-1, then "Whoa Nellie".
I think this team will beat Clemson at home in a great exciting close National game, and will have already beaten Houston at home in a tough game, and will have easily cake-walked over Samford (who is actually has a decent team). I think Louisville goes 3-0 against these 3 teams (And, bear in mind, Clemson is truly a Top 10 team).
If the Cards can figure out a way to win 2 of the other 3 first six games (NC State, Florida State, Auburn), they will remain in contention for both the ACC Championship Game, as well as the CFP.
Frankly, if the Cards can manage to beat Clemson (at PJCS, and truly a toss-up-type game against a very very good team), as well as Florida State (in Tallahassee, against a very good team --- long odds), then who knows what might happen!
If I were a bettor, taking everything into account, I would guess the Cards will go 4-2 in those First Six. I would speculate that they would win one of the Key Three: Clemson, Auburn, Florida State -- thus losing two of them. Just please DON'T lose to BOTH Clemson and Florida State.
Personally I think Cards may end up tied for First Place in their division at the END of the season.
One of our most exciting seasons coming up -- but the Power is front-loaded.