Brandon Facyson, Woody Baron Out Against North Carolina

Sep 6, 2014; Columbus, OH, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies cornerback Brandon Facyson (31) against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium. Virginia Tech defeated Ohio State 35-21. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Kickoff is almost here for the Virginia Tech Hokies against the North Carolina Tar Heels in Chapel Hill at Kenan Memorial Stadium. The Hokies are looking for a big win today against the Tar Heels with the loser of this game going to 0-2 in the ACC and in a big hole in the ACC Coastal though one that either team can overcome.

The Hokies could have some issues with depth especially at defensive tackles with two of the guys that are out as listed by Jimmy Robertson on the Hokie Huddle.

"The notable omission from the dress squad was cornerback Brandon Facyson, who has been bothered with a lower leg injury since last spring.Baron injured his ankle in Tuesday’s practice, and the injury just didn’t heal enough to allow him to play."

Woody Baron is probably the bigger loss as the Hokies will use Dewayne Alford as a fourth defensive tackle with freshman Ricky Walker as the number three guy. The Hokies have some depth concerns at defensive tackle today and I expect North Carolina will try to go after that and wear down the Hokies.

However, Corey Marshall, Nigel Williams, and Ricky Walker will be ready to go for this big game to step up.

Meanwhile, the absence of Brandon Facyson is not a big surprise and it is seeming more likely with every game that the Hokies are going to pursue a medical redshirt for the sophomore cornerback. Greg Stroman will likely play some as the fourth cornerback and Stroman has the speed to stay up with the opposing receivers and we’ll see if he has the cover skills also.

The Hokies have a couple of injuries but Virginia Tech is still the better team.