I'll be honest... I thought VT was going to find a way to lose. That almost happened, but the way VT moved the ball when they had to, was encouraging.

I think Fuente is a decent coach, but two or three seasons of major attrition and the starters getting younger each year over this period of time has left the team without an identity, and very thin at game experience. It also challenges the coaching staff, as they have to develop young talent, rather than taking it to the next level.

The hot seat is never comfortable, and sometimes that's all a good coach and team needs to motivate them. Last week Fuente being on the hot seat was communicated far and wide, making rare negative sports headlines. Getting crushed by Duke was the straw. No good coach or team is going to accept that kind of embarrassment for long. Then there's outside perceptions to complicate things more.

I don't think VT is out of the woods yet. The team is still young.

We all know too well when Bud Foster goes into prevent defense, VT gives up big plays, but when Fuente gets a lead he goes into "prevent offense mode"... plays not to lose. Maybe Miami made some adjustments, but the conservative play calling on offense turned into at least 3 series of 3 and outs, allowing Miami to cut into the lead and gain confidence and momentum, early in the second half, and especially after VT made it 35-14.

I like the way VT didn't give up, even when it seemed like Miami was going to find a way to win. It was an important experience for the young players, and hopefully the coaches will change to a more assertive style of play calling after gaining a lead. It seems like the entire offense goes to sleep, or disengages, in ultra- conservative mode, but wakes up when they need to score. I would rather see the offense turn it over because we were pressing forward, than shutting down altogether, to maintain a lead. Plus, moving the chains allows the defense to rest. To me that's what was needed more with a 21 point lead, than playing not to lose.

I'm happy VT left Miami with a victory. Maybe that loss to Duke will be the lowest of the lows with Fuente and this VT team. It's just going to take time for the young players to gain experience. I expect a rocky road this season, as the Hokies break in many new starters.

Could this season be similar to the 2004 season? I'm seeing a lot of young players growing up quickly. I have no real expectations, but I think this team is capable of reaching a bowl game.