North Carolina Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2017

The Virginia Tech Hokies gave the North Carolina Tar Heels all they could handle in a torrential downpour. Despite the conditions, the Hokies managed to score 34 points, force four turnovers and hold North Carolina to three points in a 34-3 victory.

In 2017, the Tar Heels can expect a hungrier Hokies’ defense under Bud Foster. Foster and Fuente were a lethal combination last season in leading Virginia Tech to a 10-4 record and an appearance in the ACC Championship game.

The Hokies look to get back in the Coastal title hunt this season and haven’t wasted any time in naming Josh Jackson their starting quarterback. Jackson is a redshirt freshman and a dual-threat guy out of Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Virginia Tech returns seven starters from last year’s team including the Edmunds’ brothers, Terrell and Tremaine. Terrell led the team in interceptions last season with four while Tremaine was third on the team in tackles with 94. Terrell Edmunds will line up at free safety after playing strong safety in 2016.

The Hokies defense is sure to pose a challenge as the home team in this matchup. The Tar Heels beat Virginia Tech in Blacksburg 30-27 in overtime back in 2015. However, by October, the Hokies should have a solid offensive flow. With a Coastal title in their sights, expect a winning performance from them.

Final: Virginia Tech 31, North Carolina 27 (5-3, 3-2 ACC)