The Final Countdown...

Is it really a week from TOMORROW until the first college football Saturday of the 2009 season? WOW. In a way, it has been a long time coming, but it also just feels like the Orange Bowl came to a close.

VT has looked good in preseason scrimmages and practices. But the proof will be in the pudding. How will they look under the lights against #5 Alabama in a week? Only time will tell.

Five things to know before this game -

(1) The first team defense is flat out nasty. The weakness (if you can even consider it that) of this group, is the linebackers. Only because they don't have experience. They are still playing aggressive though.

(2) The loss of Darren Evans hurts - but there is quality depth there. Ryan Williams will be a household name before you know it, and David Wilson will make his presence known too.

(3) The first team offensive line is FINALLY ready to assert itself. Most of the offensive woes over the past 4 years can be attributed to lack of depth and holes in recruiting. This group is finally gelling.

(4) This is FINALLY Tyrod's team. No looking over the shoulder. This is his offense to direct.

(5) This offense will finish in the top 60 in offense. That doesn't sound too good, but given the fact that VT has won the ACC in back to back seasons with offenses in the 100s.

HOKIE HOKIE HOKIE HI folks. It's time to kick it off!!!