ATS Sports Blog

2009 College Football Predictions

Virginia Tech Hokies

2008 Record: (10-4, 5-3)
Coach: Frank Beamer, 23rd year (177-89-2 at Va. Tech, 219-112-4 overall)
Off. Coordinator: Bryan Stinespring (4th year)
Def. Coordinator: Bud Foster (15th year)
Returning Starters: 17 (9 offense, 7 defense, punter)
Ret. Starting Quarterback: Yes (Tyrod Taylor)

Offense: The Hokies have all the ingredients to have an explosive offense. The key will be the performance of junior QB Tyrod Taylor. He ran for 738 yards last season but threw for just 1,036 yards. He has to improve as a passer, as he threw for just two TDs with seven interceptions. The offensive line is experienced, even with three starters returning and they are more athletic than in the past. Sophomore Darren Evans returns for his sophomore season after rushing for 1,265 yards as a freshman with 11 TDs. At receiver, they return talented sophomores Danny Coale and Jarrett Boykins, who should get more action this year if Taylor is more accurate. Senior TE Greg Boone (6-3, 287) is a beast as a blocker and is a pretty good receiver (22 catches).

Defense: The defense is led by DE Jason Worilds, who had eight sacks last year. This is a very fast unit with the strength being the secondary, despite losing CB Macho Harris to the NFL. Senior CB Stephan Virgil is a big-time player, who can hit and make plays (six picks). The leader of the secondary is senior FS Kam Chancellor (6-4, 226), who will be starting for his third straight year. At linebacker, Cody Grimm returns to the outside after finishing third on the team in tackles and second on the team in sacks.

Outlook: The Hokies can be a championship contender if they can find a passing game. That’s easier said than done as Taylor has to take that leap and become more consistent as a thrower. Senior Matt Waldron has to take control of the kicking job. The defense has virtually no weaknesses.

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