Virginia Tech, North Carolina Gobbler Country Staff Picks

Roy Hatfield (4-0)

The Hokies have a real test with North Carolina. I think the difference maker will be RB Elijah Hood for the ‘Heels. I’m not so sure our defense can stop this great back. I do think we will score some points, but the running game thus far hasn’t impressed me. With the weather, passing might be a challenge. It pains me to say this, but UNC 29 Virginia Tech 23.

Jawhar Ali (4-0)

The Hokies' defense will face their biggest test of the season against UNC's offense - slowing down a team that has scored 37 points in back-to-back games is no easy task, even for Bud Foster's defense. But I think the real test might be for the offense. If the elements are what they're projected to be, then this game will most likely come down to whoever can run the ball between the tackles better. The Tar Heels' are underwhelming defensively, but the Hokies haven't shown the ability to run the ball consistently up the middle outside of QB draws. On the other side, Elijah Hood might be the best back in the ACC between the tackles and the UNC interior OL has shown the ability to generate consistent push. I hate to say it, but I think UNC comes out on top in a sloppy football game, 24-23.

Joshua Schneider (4-0)

Look, I have NO IDEA what's going to go on in this game. The weather factor mucks it up (literally and figuratively) that I'm having a hard time trying to figure out the narrative. Elijah Hood is questionable and the UNC Tarheels haven't faced a defense yet anywhere close to the Hokies', but the Hokies might be stuck with their inefficient ground game while being completely stuck in the mud. I don't think that this will be a high scoring contest, and it'll just be a slog to watch. Whoever wins won't do it by much, but I'm going to say UNC 28 Hokies 27.

John Schneider (3-1)

The irony of this football game is that the Carolina defense has to stop the Hokie Offense. We've been talking about the other squads, but the game is going to hinge on Tech's O winning the game. Driving the ball and controlling the clock is key. The best defense against Trubisky and company is keeping them off the field.

31 - 24 Hokies

Mohamed Hassan (3-1)

Slowly, but surely the Virginia Tech team that used to win with great defense and special teams is returning to Blacksburg. The difference is that this time, they have a revamped offense to compliment it. The Hokies will look to make a statement against the Tarheels that they are back and this is their division to win. Hokies win 34-23.

Bryan Manning (3-1)

The Hokies returned to the top 25 again this week and have a big test on their hands with a trip to No. 17 North Carolina. Through four games, the Hokies are clicking on all cylinders. Offense, defense and special teams are all contributing.

UNC runs a fast-paced spread, similar to Tech. Think VT defensive coordinator Bud Foster has taken plenty of notes in practice? Sure he has and that's one reason Foster's defense is as good as it's been in a while.

This game will be close and come down to the final minutes. This time, the Hokies will be on the good end and move to 2-0 in ACC play.

Prediction: Virginia Tech 31, North Carolina 24

Jay Johnson (3-1)

The likelihood of rain gives me pause, because it will likely dampen (haha!) the high octane Fuente offense we have seen showcased over the last two games. The running game seemed to stutter a bit against ECU, but in previous games the running attack has benefited from Williams’ and McMillian’s skillsets. Not too mention the fireworks that Evans showed he was capable of last week. I expect the offensive plan to be built around the rushing attack of Evans, McMillian, and Williams, while hoping to open up some downfield opportunities. The Hokies defense and special teams will take center stage in Chapel Hill. VPI must slow down Trubisky in order to stay in the game. UNC is a dangerous team and still the lead squad in the Coastal. Virginia Tech has a fantastic opportunity to signal their return to the ACC contenders, and I think they do it in a close slugfest. Hokies over the Tar Heels, 27-24.