Two Hokies recognized by ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit

The annual "Herbie Awards" dropped last night, with ESPN college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit naming nominees and winers in several categories. The awards had names like "The Enforcer," "Biggest Shoes to Fill," "Pure Passer," "Top 4,000/1,000 Threat," and so on.

Two separate Hokies picked up nominations from Herbstreit, and although neither took home the (metaphorical) prize, the recognition itself is notable.

Junior wide receiver Isaiah Ford was one of five players nominated for the "Best Kept Secret" category. The name is rather self-explanatory - and seems to fit Ford's reputation outside of Blacksburg to a "T." Though he's a returning all-ACC player, few around the country have given the Hokies' likely all-time leading pass-catcher the attention he deserves. Alas, running back Elijah Hood from Rival North Carolina beat out Ford (along with Skyler Howard of West Virginia, Ty Summers of TCU, and Azeem Victor of Washington) for the top spot.

The "Unsung Hero" category is just as descriptive a name - and a similar category, though intended primarily for walk-ons and former walk-ons who have turned their opportunities into big roles. Senior fullback Sam Rogers ost out to Clemson wide receiver Hunter Renfrow.

Ultimately, pre-season recognition for something that isn't even a real award is meaningless. However, both honors do show that the Hokies are fielding a team with the talent to turn around last season's disappointing results.