Friday, Oct. 9
NC State at Virginia Tech (-3, 44.5) (8:00 pm ET, ESPN)
My power ratings actually make Virginia Tech -6 in this game, so there appears to be a bit of value on the Hokies. However, Virginia Tech comes into this game off back-to-back losses, and they have serious quarterback issues right now. Rumors abound that Michael Brewer will return for this game, but even if he does, how effective will he be? Brenden Motley has been terrible in Brewer’s place, so Virginia Tech is a difficult team to trust, especially not knowing which quarterback will play tonight.
NC State comes in off their first loss of the season; they lost 20-13 at home to Louisville last week. The Wolfpack played four terrible opponents before that game, so it’s difficult to know how good this team really is. Louisville was a good opponent with a good defense, and NC State could do little in last week’s game. NC State certainly has the edge at quarterback with Jacoby Brissett, but he was rattled into a 16-for-28, 183-yard passing game last week. If Virginia Tech’s defense comes to play, the Hokies can do the same to Brissett in this game. However, there are simply too many question marks on both sides to make a strong play in this game on Friday night.