VIRGINIA TECH HOKIES O:5 D:5

The Hokies looked primed and ready for a run at the National Championship last season, but then the mighty Canes paid a visit to Blacksburg in early November and squashed those dreams. Still, the Hokies went on to win 11 games and have now gone bowling for 13 straight seasons. Head Coach Frank Beamer’s squad returns 10 starters from last years team that won the Coastal Division for the second year in a row, and beat Louisville in the Gator Bowl. Once again, there’s plenty of talent on Blacksburg, but there are a few question marks. The main one comes under center where a capable replacement must be found for the early departed Marcus Vick. The RB corps hinges on Brandon Ore’s shoulder, and the O-Line losses three all ACC players. Nevertheless, the Hokies always put out a capable offense, and this year should be no different. The other side of the ball is a completely different story though. Playmakers and experience are present throughout, and the Hokies will boast one of the best stop units in the country. Up front, the Hokies will make things difficult for opposing lines with a defensive front that goes two deep at every spot as well as two of the country's best inside linebackers (Vince Hall and Xavier Adibi). The secondary is loaded with talent and depth as well to harass opposing pass attacks. The last two Hokie stop units only gave up a shade under 13 PPG, and this one could hover around that same mark provided they don’t get worn down by its weaker offense. Beamer ball will be in full effect in ’06 as the special teams unit returns completely intact, and this squad always plays well under their head coach.

On paper, it looks like the Hokies are still a year away from seriously contending for the National Championship. There’s just too many question marks on the offensive side of the ball, and it never matters how good your defense is if you can’t put points on the board or keep the clock moving. Still, the Hokies will be a very tough out in the Coastal once again, and have an excellent shot at winning it for the third season in a row. A trip to Miami will ultimately decide their fate, but there’s no doubt they’ll be bowling for the 14 th straight season.