ACC Football Power Rankings, Week 6: Clemson shines, Pitt plummets

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Oct 3, 2020; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies running back Khalil Herbert (21) breaks free for a first down run ahead of Duke Blue Devils safety Marquis Waters (0) and Duke Blue Devils cornerback Jeremiah Lewis (39) in the second half at Wallace Wade Stadium. The Virginia Tech Hokies won 38-31. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Virginia Tech Hokies (2-0, 2-0)

If the Hokies play this well with 20 players and coaches out and an anemic passing game. What will they play like when everyone is healthy?

Due to COVID-19 concerns, their season opener was cancelled. Virginia Tech did not play until the end of September when they throttled North Carolina State 45-24. The Hokies defeated the Wolf Pack with 23 players and defensive coordinator Justin Hamilton all out due to corona virus issues.

The lack of depth almost caught up with the Hokies this week against the Duke Blue Devils. Despite completing just nine passes, the running game continued to chug along against Duke. Not only did starting quarterback Hendon Hooker miss his second game, the defense took some significant hits as well. All four of Virginia Tech’s starting secondary missed their game against Duke.

It is unclear when Hooker, Hamilton or any of the other missing Hokies will return to the team. Head coach Justin Fuente is clear that is not his decision. That depth is going to be an issue when they play the Tar Heels this week.

Virginia Tech will definitely miss the depth in the secondary. Here at headquarters we hope that everyone is safe and healthy.

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