For No. 8 Notre Dame: Oct. 6 at Virginia Tech:
This is likely the toughest road game on the Irish schedule, what with USC and Northwestern struggling. Suddenly, too, that visit from Florida State looks less difficult. So if Notre Dame can handle business at home, this first trip ever to Blacksburg for the Irish may serve as the steepest hill to climb en route to a New Year's Six bowl game. The Hokies' stout rush defense will provide a serious test. -- Mitch Sherman

For No. 13 Virginia Tech: Nov. 17 vs. Miami:
The home date against Notre Dame will have plenty of fans excited, and for good reason, but a loss to the Irish won't undermine the Hokies' hopes at winning the Coastal Division. That will likely be decided by the penultimate game of the year, when Miami travels to Blacksburg with the division on the line. Last year, the Hurricanes trounced Virginia Tech in South Florida, but this will be all about revenge on the Hokies' home turf. -- Hale

No. 21 Miami: Nov. 17 at Virginia Tech:
Florida State has played so poorly in its first three games, Miami should be the clear favorite when the two rivals play on Oct. 6. The biggest game, then, has to be its contest at Coastal Division rival Virginia Tech. The two have competed for conference championships going back to their days in the Big East together. Miami's 28-10 win over Virginia Tech a year ago helped seal up its first Coastal Division title. And right now, No. 13 Virginia Tech and Miami appear to be the two best teams in the division. One game that can't be overlooked, though: Miami plays at No. 23 Boston College on a Friday night in October. -- Adelson