There are high expectations in Blacksburg this season. The Hokies are ranked No. 9 in the preseason by Athlon Sports, largely due to their All-ACC running back Branden Ore.

Athlon's 2007 Heisman Watch

Hailing from Chesapeake, Va., where he earned honors as a High School All-American, Ore rushed for 1,137 yards last season despite missing time with an injury. On just his second carry against Wake Forest, Ore suffered a high ankle sprain, which forced him out of the regular season finale against Virginia. He returned less than 100 percent for the Chick-fil-A Bowl against Georgia and gained just 42 yards on 20 carries but scored twice. Still. he managed to rank among ACC rushing leaders and scored 16 times on the ground while also becoming a consistent receiver out of the backfield.

Virginia Tech Team Preview

Ore’s blend of speed, power and outstanding vision makes him one of the most talented backs in the country. He will be operating this season behind a rebuilt offensive line, but there is no shortage of experience on offense. Because of that, defenses will not be able to key on Ore, which should give him room to run.

Why he’ll be holding the hardware: Ore will be the most visible component of Virginia Tech’s team this season so leading the Hokies to the ACC Championship, and winning the league rushing title could be enough to send him to the Big Apple.

Why he’ll be left out: The rebuilt offensive line will likely be Ore’s biggest problem. If they don’t jell quickly and open up holes during the first two games, his chance for glory this season may be shot.

Final analysis: The high-profile games are there. With a trip to LSU in early September, Ore could rocket up the Heisman list with a strong showing on a big stage against a premier defense. Ore will get the most recognition on the Virginia Tech offense so if the Hokies make a national championship run, who knows? A more likely scenario, however, is that Ore finds himself on the bubble of the top 10.

2006 Stat Line