Arkansas State at Virginia Tech

Frank Beamer tends to put a disciplined team on the field, with playmakers on both sides of the ball. The last three years he has faced heavy attrition, returning 10, 12, and 11 starters. This year, despite the fact they once again return only 10, don't expect this Hokies team to back down. In fact I would not be surprised to see them battling for the ACC Championship. Early returns show that defense will once again rule the roost. Arkansas State is a pass-happy team that likes the up-tempo game, but this is simply the wrong venue for that approach. The Hokies, despite returning few starters the past three years, have held their last 20 opponents at home to a measly 14 points per game, including a beavy of BCS Conference teams. Arkansas State is going to be in for a lot of resistance, and once the Hokies grab the lead they will show no mercy. The Red Wolves are leaking oil on the road with a 3-10 ATS mark when facing a team with a winning home record. They are also 16-33 ATS in their last 49 games following a win. The Hokies bear-down as chalk at 16-5 ATS in their last 21 in the favorite role. They are also 40-26 ATS under Beamer in September games. Virginia Tech is the pick.