Getting by VT is also huge because it gives us another two weeks of developing and working out the kinks against GSU before the next test in UVA. And frankly this team should steamroll UVA, GT, and Dook. FSU always has talent but their program has been in shambles for years now. Beating Miami and ND back to back will be tough, but the real key is getting there undefeated. One loss to either of those teams won't knock us out of ACCCG contention, or eventual playoff contention if we manage to beat Clemson. Losing one before that pretty much means we've gotta win both to stay in the hunt. It might sound ridiculous to be thinking about playoff berths but you can bet your ass that's what the players and coaches are striving for. That's the new standard.
Just look at tOSU earlier tonight... They struggled in the first half, and were looking vulnerable. But they gutted out the win with a couple of big plays in the second half and I'd be willing to bet they'll look a lot better next week. Great teams often look less than stellar in week 1, but they find a way to win anyways. Just find a way to start 1-0. Doesn't matter at all if it's ugly.
Every week you spend in the top 10 is a potential recruiting boost. Staying there starts with going 1-0. Mack can only sell a promising future for so long. The absolute cream of the crop usually end up signing with schools that are already getting results. Now is the time to start getting those results.
