Syracuse Football: A 5 question sit down with the enemy

Paul Esden Jr: The win over UNC last week was the first win over a ranked opponent in two years and the first under new head coach Justin Fuente. What’s the confidence level of this team 5 games in?

"Chris Coleman: I would think the confidence level has to be extremely high right now.  Just look at the scores from Virginia Tech’s last three games: 49-0, 54-17, and 34-3.  That’s a total combined score of 137-20, including an 88-3 margin in ACC games.  There are very few teams in the country that have been playing at this high a level over the last few weeks. I think a win like that helps validate to the team that all the work they’ve been putting in since December is starting to pay off.  Not only did the Hokies change head coaches, but they also changed strength and conditioning coaches.  Ben Hilgart replaced Mike Gentry, and Tech’s offseason workout program took a big step forward in terms of intensity.  That was tough for the players to go through, especially those who were used to the old staff, but now that they are seeing the results of their hard work I think their confidence in their coaches grows even more."

Next: 4. Jerod Evans has been incredible this season