College Football Rankings: Way-too-early Top 25 projections for 2018
By Zach Bigalke
Justin Fuente’s crew fell to Oklahoma State in the Camping World Bowl, but the Hokies look like the team with the far brighter future. While the Cowboys deal with the loss of quarterback Mason Rudolph and a bunch of other talented players, Virginia Tech enters 2018 without any question marks at the most important position on offense.
Josh Jackson threw for nearly 3000 yards as a freshman. He should improve as a sophomore as he adjusts even better to the pace of the college game. Against Oklahoma State, Jackson went 22-of-41 for 248 yards with a touchdown and an interception. It wasn’t the most earth-shattering performance in the air, but Jackson added 50 rushing yards and two scores on the ground to keep Virginia Tech in the contest.
Jackson will be the cornerstone of the 2018 team, especially with the defense a bit greener after the loss of players like defensive tackle Tim Settle. While Miami will still be the favorite in the ACC Coastal, the Hokies will offer a strong challenge to the Hurricanes next season.
Virginia Tech opens the year with a conference road test at Florida State. The non-conference schedule over the rest of September leaves little to be desired, with FCS William & Mary coming to Blacksburg before a home game against East Carolina and a road trip to Norfolk to face Old Dominion.