The preseason USA Today poll has been released and the the coaches' have spoken. The Florida Gators sit a top the rankings as the favorite to win the BCS Championship this year. However, they have given some well deserved respect to the Virginia Tech Hokies.

The coaches have called the Hokies the number seven team in the nation. Frank Beamer's bunch hopes to not only win their conference in 2009, but also compete for a national championship.

Odds makers are calling Virginia Tech about a 15/1 shot to win the BCS Championship in January. However, they opened at about 25/1 and with a lot of early money coming in on the Hokies the bargain is fading fast.

Returning for another season is Hokies leading rusher Darren Evans. He compiled over 1,200 yards on the ground last season. Under center, Virginia Tech raw but talented quarterback Tyrod Taylor also returns to after throwing for 1,036 yards. One of Taylor's favorite targets also returns in wide out Jarrett Boykin. The Sophomore receiver amassed 441 yards and hauled in two touchdowns in his freshman year a season ago.

The Va-Tech offense should put up some points this year, especially against some weak ACC defenses.

Their biggest potential weakness is their own defense. The Hokies will welcome back defensive end Jason Worilds and his eight sacks from last season. Also returning are linebacker Cody Grimm and cornerback Stephan Virgil. However, the Hokies are somewhat of a risk because they lost defensive pieces Victor Harris, Orion Martin, Purnell Sturdivant and Brett Warren.

For any shot of playing for the National Championship in January, Virginia Tech would have to get through the regular season unbeaten. Look for the Hokies to be right their at the end competing for the ACC Championship, but they are a year or two away from making a push to a National Title.