: 10-2 (Offense 6, Defense 4, ST 1)

A lot of key players are gone from last year, including leading rusher Brandon Ore, whose presence will be deeply missed.  Two redshirt freshmen will attempt to fill his shoes this season.

The Hokies' top four WRs are also gone, and Sean Glennon will need to find some new targets if he is to stop defenses from keying on the running game and putting eight to nine guys in the box.  Their offense will be a work in progress.

Another downer for the Hokies this season is their road schedule.  They travel to ECU, UNC, Nebraska, BC, FSU, and Miami.  They should win two of those contests handily.  However, they will be doing good to break even in the other four, especially the back to back road games at UNC and Nebraska.

The one shining light for the Hokies will be their defensive backs, and as always, their special teams.  They return two All-ACC candidates at CB and S.  These two have the ability and leadership skills to hold the line on the defense while the defensive front comes together.  They will be in a difficult position against the triple option threat of Georgia Tech early in the season.

Aug. 30 @ E. Carolina W        Oct. 18 @ Boston College W

Sept. 6 Furman W                 Oct. 25 @ Florida St. W

Sept. 13 Georgia Tech W        Nov. 6 Maryland W

Sept. 20 @ N. Carolina L        Nov. 13 @ Miami (FL) W

Sept. 27 @ Nebraska L           Nov. 22 Duke W

Oct. 4 W. Kentucky W            Nov. 29 Virginia W

 

3. Miami: 9-3 (Offense 5, Defense 6, ST 1)

Miami had a dismal season last year.  I hope the ACC got their licks in while they could, because the U is on its way back.  Miami will benefit from a weak division, just as the aforementioned teams will.

Look for the tandem of Gary Cooper and Javarris James to carry the offense while Miami attempts to find the right fit at QB between two freshmen, as well as targets for them.  They have two tackles which should anchor their offensive line, including All-American candidate Jason Fox, which will help the running game and hopefully give the QBs some confidence.

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