65 predictions, #39

Sunday's prediction:

#39: Virginia Tech beats Alabama in week one. Saban has never beaten Beamer (long track record of 0-1). There is too much uncertainty with Bama, who overachieved last year as it was, particularly with the offense. I think Saban will have the Crimson Tide rolling in 2010 until as long as he coaches there. But I think Va Tech will be less overrated this year than they usually are, i.e. they might almost be as good as "experts" say. The D and Special Teams are always good. Maybe this is the year they add the O and put it all together. They have dominated the ACC since joining the conference in 2004. Let's see if they can step it up on the national level.

Also of note, it is the 10th anniversary of Virginia Tech's lone appearance in the National Championship game: a loss to Bobby Bowden in the Sugar Bowl. I predict they get off to a good start with a victory over Nick Saban and Alabama.