Clemson owned the ACC a year ago, but the competition promises to get tougher in 2016. With that in mind, we’re looking at what the league’s other bowl teams need to do to bridge the gap. Next up: Virginia Tech.
How they make it: A revamped offense under new coach Justin Fuente finally matches the production of Bud Foster’s ball-hawking defense, and Virginia Tech re-emerges as the powerhouse of the Coastal Division. It’s not a particularly far-fetched plan. The Hokies have potential superstars on offense with the likes of Bucky Hodges (40 catches, 530 yards, six touchdowns), Isaiah Ford (75 catches for 1,164 yards and 11 TDs) and tailback Travon McMillian (1,042 rush yards, seven TDs), and Foster’s return despite a change at head coach provides some consistency on D.