Today, college football is officially back. The season kicks off with a big ACC matchup between Georgia Tech and Florida State, but most programs across the country don’t start play until next weekend. One of those programs is Virginia Tech, which gets to start its season next Saturday on the road against Vanderbilt.

The Hokies have received a lot of preseason praise, but they have to prove it, and it would be great to start the season with a win. All offseason, Virginia Tech has been a two-touchdown favorite over the Commodores, and that hasn’t changed a week before the big game. According to Fanduel Sportsbook, Virginia Tech is a 13.5-point favorite against Vanderbilt next week, and the total point total is 50.5.

It will be interesting to see how Virginia Tech looks right off the bat. They are one of the most experienced teams in the country and should do just fine. Kyron Drones and Bhayshul Tuten should be able to continue their strong attack, the defensive line has a chance to be among the best in the ACC, and the Hokies have one of the best cornerback duos.

The Hokies will likely be favorites in 10 games this season, some by more than a touchdown. The only games they might be considered underdogs in are the Miami game in September and the Clemson game in November. If Virginia Tech can win the games they are favorites in and split the Miami-Clemson matchups, they could be playing in Charlotte for an ACC title and a College Football Playoff spot. There are some potential stumbling blocks in their schedule, however. Home games against Rutgers and Georgia Tech shouldn’t be overlooked, but the good thing is that they are home games.

Virginia Tech could have a great season and it starts on August 31st at Vanderbilt.