play makers,they are the only top team in the Coastal that will return it`s starting QB. UNC,Miami,and Pitt will lose their QBs to either graduation or early entry into the NFL. UNC also loses its top RB(Hood) and WR(Switzer). Besides losing their QB,Pitt will likely lose Conner at RB. When analyzing,it`s important to consider what other teams lose,not just VT.

Losing Hodges and Ford would hurt,but the receivers in Fuentes offensive system will have had a year + to become proficient at running it. Besides Phillips and Carroll,Deablo,Kumah,and Patterson have gotten plenty of practice time and have big upsides. McMillian,Peoples,and McClease(a perfect fit for this offense) should be solid. I think that Holston signs and has a good chance of contributing as a freshman(RB is a position where freshmen can make an impact).

I don`t think that the DL will suffer like some think. Walker and Settle have played well late in the season at DT. Mihota has had a good year at DE despite playing injured since the Miami game. Hill has a huge upside and we should see that in 2017. At LB,Motuapuaka improved this season and Tremaine has had a good year. VT only loses Clark from the DB group next season. Finally,VT returns both kickers.

Spring practice will give us a better idea of just where the team is for 2017. But,I think that a top 20 ranking is very realistic to begin the season.