1 Quarterback depth

Tyrod Taylor is the Hokies’ one-man gang at quarterback. While Taylor is firmly entrenched as Tech’s main man, there’s no proven backup should the talented junior go down. Tech must get redshirt freshman QB Ju-Ju Clayton a lot of reps in case he’s called from the bullpen. “I think before the season is over he’s going to be in a position to win a game for us,” Tech coach Frank Beamer said of Clayton. Heralded freshman Logan Thomas (Brookville) will begin camp working with the QBs.

2 Big boys up front on 'O’

An offensive line that has had its share of ups and downs the past few seasons has more athleticism this time around, plus there’s some extra troops who should solve some long-standing depth issues. Line coach Curt Newsome said he hopes to head into the season with at least eight or nine guys who can play at a high level. Newsome said he hopes the added support can allow him to spell players more freely, particularly in the second half of games.

 
3 Playmakers making plays

Tech’s array of young wide receivers started to grow up toward the end of last season and should be much more in tune with Taylor and the offense this fall. Tech is so loaded at tight end that Chris Drager was moved to defensive end after catching four passes in the spring game. At tailback, Tech has one of the most talented duos in the country in sophomore Darren Evans and redshirt freshman Ryan Williams.

4 The core of the defense

Coordinator Bud Foster’s biggest issue is at inside linebacker, where sophomores Barquell Rivers and Jake Johnson take over as starters. Redshirt freshman Bruce Taylor is easily the best of a young and inexperienced cast of backups.

5 Team chemistry

Despite being a young bunch, Tech had its act together in this department in 2008. The Hokies will require even more focus and resolve this time around in a season that’s loaded with lofty expectations. They will find out quickly how good they are when they face Alabama in the Sept. 5  opener in Atlanta.