Tech plays two non-conference BCS opponents outside of Lane Stadium, and draws the two best teams from the Atlantic Division (or maybe the entire ACC). Other than a break at the end of October —which will be spent preparing for back-to-back Thursday night games— the team doesn't have many opportunities to step back for a breath of air. Duke? They always play the Hokies tough (or Tech doesn't take them seriously, either way it's close). Austin Peay? Beating any team on five days rest is a challenge. It's an unforgiving, but manageable schedule. As I look it over, I believe getting out of Death Valley with a "W" will be the toughest challenge. The Tigers are talented, have schemes on both sides of the ball that give Tech fits, and they hold a two-love mental advantage.
Seventy will forever be linked to Clemson. Remember the '12 Orange Bowl. I hate acknowledging West Virginia being successful (y'all know where the Black Diamond Trophy's at), but they showed the Tigers were anything unlike the world-beaters we made the out to be last year. Georgia Tech, NC State, and South Carolina all agree.
But needless to say, the Tigers have our number, and our crown. We want redemption, and we want to get back to Charlotte. Even though they're in the opposite division, a loss to Clemson coupled with a Coastal flub may keep us home in December. Quickly, all the big guys, including LT3 (37/71 399 Yards 1 TD 3 INTs in both losses last season) need to show up. Pinholes pretending to be running lanes won't get the job done this year either.
Ten weeks y'all.
