With the Coastal Division title no longer in Virginia Tech's control after
the loss to Georgia Tech, the Hokies must maintain focus against a young, but
talented, North Carolina squad. Tech needs to forget about chop blocks and
crack-back blocks and concentrate on a dangerous UNC team. Injuries and youth
have limited the offensive effectiveness of the Tar Heels, but UNC's defense
ranks as one of the best in the nation, so the Hokies better come ready to play.
Hopefully, the Thursday night atmosphere in Lane Stadium will keep Tech
focused. North Carolina has been disappointing thus far with an 0-3 conference
record, but the Hokies had better not underestimate this opponent. The Tar
Heels' problems this year have more to do with youth - only three seniors
started against Florida State last Thursday night - and an inordinate number of
offensive injuries, including five starters missing time this year. Talent is
certainly not an issue, particularly on defense.