ACC Football Power Rankings: Can anyone topple Clemson?

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Nov 18, 2017; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Justin Fuente with safety Deon Newsome (20) and safety Reggie Floyd (21) before running onto the field at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Virginia Tech Hokies

Key returning players: Braxton Burmeister, Tre Turner, Amare Barno

Key losses: Khalil Herbert, Hendon Hooker, Quincy Patterson

Season Outlook: Getting a read on the Hokies is not easy. At first, Justin Fuente looked headed for the hot seat. Then, they win three of their first four games. The wheels came off after a close win against Louisville.

Tech proceeded to lose four straight games, including a 47-14 loss to Pittsburgh. The Hokies did win the Commonwealth Cup against interstate rival Virginia to stop the losing streak, however. This offseason saw its share of attrition.

The Hokies lost quarterbacks Hendon Hooker and Quincy Patterson to the transfer portal. Those are two of a host of transfers from last season’s team. Fuente and the Hokies have had issues with a large group of players transferring before.

It looks like Kansas transfer Braxton Burmeister is going to start over Texas A&M transfer Connor Blumrick. The Hokies do return all three of their leading receivers from last year. It is going to be difficult to replace the production of Khalil Herbert; expect a by-committee approach this season.

The Hokies surrendered 30 or more points six times last season for a team usually known for their defense. The defense was feast or famine. There were three players with at least five sacks and three players with two or more interceptions.

They gave up big plays if the Hokies did not pressure the quarterback or turn the ball over. Virginia Tech has to be better on a down-to-down basis defensively.

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