Saturday links

Saturday is here. On a bye week with a Thursday game looming, that means it's a practice day. Virginia Tech is making its initial preparations for the upcoming night game against North Carolina. And it also means that Hokies Journal will return to full steam these next few days, so expect your regular daily doses. Until then, here are some links.

The Tar Heels, meanwhile, are on their heels after a 30-27 loss to a Florida State team that was"without a pulse" entering the Thursday game. (Florida State Coach Bobby Bowden, it should be noted, is very thankful for the Tar Heel's second-half collapse.)

It's been a disappointing fall in Chapel Hill, where some of the attention has already turned to the hardwood. It's only October, you say? You forget that North Carolina basketball is a year-round endeavor. Hopes are running particularly high for the Tar Heels because of their deep front court, which could help them to another national title.