Top 10 Preseason Rankings

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#1. Virginia Tech -

After a 9-4 season, capped off by a loss to Oklahoma State in the Camping World Bowl, Justin Fuente's squad needs to show improvement. The off-season issues have not helped, but all can be remedied with an opening win at Florida State

#2. UVA -

Bronco Mendenhall showed true promise last year after leading the Hoos' to a 6-6 record an Military Bowl appearance. But fans in Charlottesville expect improvement and replacing QB Kurt Benkert won't be easy.

#3. ODU -

Many fans we're disappointed after a 5-7 season in 2017. However, when you consider the Monarchs started the youngest QB in FBS, that's not so bad. ODU returns 16 starters from last year and will be a real threat to win the C-USA.

#4. JMU -

After back-to-back trips to the FCS championship and one upset of North Dakota State, it's hard to not rank the Duke's higher. Yet, they do lose multiple star players from last year and compete in the very competitive CAA. 

#5. Liberty -

If we were doing a ranking of most exciting teams, Liberty would top the list. Virginia has never had a FBS independent and the Flames schedule features many intriguing matchups. That said, there is doubt around Turner Gill and transition years are typically difficult. 

#6. Richmond -

Most Spider fans were excited about the hiring of Russ Huesman last January. In 2008, he served on the Mike London staff that won a national championship. Yet, a 6-5 record with star QB Kyle Lauletta was disappointing. Switching to a new offense will keep things interesting, but the schedule gets tough quick.

#7. Norfolk State -

A 4-7 record certainly doesn't look great on paper, but the Spartans were 10 combined points away from being 7-4. If Norfolk State is to improve, it will depend on the arm and leadership of Juwan Carter.

#8. William & Mary -

After a 9-4 record and reaching the 2nd round of the FCS playoffs, the Tribe have struggled. Last year, William and Mary started off 2-2 but never won again and finished 2-9, arguably their worst finish since 1961. It may be tough early as their first three games are @ Bucknell, @ Virginia Tech and home against Elon. 

#9. Hampton -

Due to transitioning out of the MEAC and into the Big South, the Pirates will compete as a FCS-independent this fall. Because of that, this schedule features a number of division 2 opponents. Their most exciting game comes on September 22nd, as the Pirates will travel to play Northern Iowa. 

#10. VMI -

While Keydet fans may not feel encouraged after a winless season, they do return two key receivers and should be explosive offensively. Keep an eye on their November 17th contest at Old Dominion. The Monarchs will be coming off physical games, and the Keydets likely have that match circled.