Virginia Tech Football: Why 2012 Will Spell Disaster for Frank Beamer

Virginia Tech has run a strong program for a quite some time, but they could start falling behind as others within the conference get stronger as early as this year.

Clemson has emerged as a major player in the ACC, and Florida State has also shown that they're capable of pushing to be one of the top teams in the country.

There's no doubt that the Hokies have what it takes this year to win the ACC, but it's not going to be easy because of certain factors.

Here's a look at why this season could be a disastrous one for Frank Beamer and the Hokies.

Returning Starters

As we've learned over the years, Bud Foster's defense can always be counted on.

However, the offense is only returning three starters from last year. On a positive note, quarterback Logan Thomas is one of those three starters.

The offensive line will be a huge question mark, as they'll have four new starters. The loss of David Wilson will also sting. There is no definitive starting running back on this year's team, as there usually is every season.

Miami, November 1

The Hokies have had the edge over Miami the last several years, but that won't last forever.

In last year's meeting in Blacksburg, Miami gave Virginia Tech everything they had. Luckily for them, Logan Thomas had scrambled for a touchdown in the final minute of the game.

This year's game is at Miami, and while the squads aren't the same, the memory of that game remains.

This could also be a trap game for Virginia Tech. Florida State is next on the schedule after Miami, and they could easily overlook the Hurricanes while they're preoccupied with Florida State.

It's something I'm sure they'll be aware of and try to avoid, but that hasn't stopped it from happening to others before.

Conference Championship

While the Coastal seems all but decided for the Hokies, the Atlantic looks to be between Florida State and Clemson. Either one could pose a big problem for Virginia Tech in the conference championship.

Last season, Virginia Tech fell to Clemson twice (once in the ACC Championship).

This is the big hurdle that Beamer and the Hokies will have to jump, and if they fall short this year, it'll just be a repeat of last year and leave much to be desired.