View from the Perch - the rants and ramblings of a Hokie junkie

Various and sundry....

2009-09-24T20:13:00.004-04:00

Greetings fellow Hokies. It's been a while. Tough couple weeks, so I have been somewhat absence in blog world. Instead of writing 10 new blogs to make up for it, I figured I would just list some highlights of the young season and my thoughts on where things stand for the Hokies.

So, the Alabama game has come and gone. There were some really good things to take away from it. The emergence of Ryan Williams as a legitimate playmaker would have to be at the top of the list. It was an out of conference game, so the Hokies' goals are still intact.

The Marshall game showed me a lot of good things. Before you poo poo the Marshall defense and tell me that 'it's just Marshall,' consider VT couldn't do anything NEAR that against the likes of Furman, Western Kentucky or even Northeastern over the past few years. Get used to watching Ryan Williams and David Wilson become a blur on your HD TVs. These guys are scary fast.

What can you say about Nebraska? For 58 minutes, the Huskers were the better team. But Tyrod dug deep and made two huge plays to will his team to a last minute, dramatic win. Does anyone have any faint memories of Syracuse in '98 when a visibly sick Donovan McNabb beat us in the waning seconds? I don't need to remind anyone of Matty Ice in 2007, do I? This one was big. Nice to be on the right side of a miracle comeback.

In case you didn't know, it's Miami week. Over the first two games, the Canes are starting to look like Butch Davis' old teams. But before we get too ahead of ourselves, the defenses of Georgia Tech and Florida State got precious little pressure on Jacory Harris. VT's success this weekend will be completely predicated on whether or not Foster can generate a pass rush and force Jacory into some mistakes. The Hokies will also need to improve greatly on its offensive output. Facing Alabama, Nebraska and Miami in the first month is rough, no doubt. Those defenses are solid. Here's hoping the crowd can make things tough for the visitors.

Conference picks coming tomorrow. Until gameday, GO HOKIES!

Does the ACC deserve an auto BCS bid?

2009-09-06T10:02:00.003-04:00

The ACC got off to an inauspicious start on Thursday night when NC State lost at home to South Carolina and kept the underachieving going through Saturday night.

One can hardly lay the blame at the feet of Virginia Tech, who led #5 Alabama into the start of the fourth quarter. There are several reasons VT couldn't pull it off, which I will get into in detail in another post. The real embarrassment came at the hands of some of the lower tier ACC leagues that couldn't beat much lesser competition.

Let's check our scorecard below:

South Carolina defeats NC State
Baylor defeats Wake Forest
William and Mary defeats Virginia
Richmond defeats Duke
California defeats Maryland
Alabama defeats Virginia Tech

Boston College defeats Northeastern
Clemson defeats Middle Tennessee State
North Carolina defeats The Citadel
Georgia Tech defeats Jacksonville State

For anyone noticing a pattern, the four victories were against absolutely horrific competition, most of which isn't even FBS/Division IA. The ACC was a putrid 0-4 against the other BCS conferences, with the definite lowlights being Virginia and Duke being unable to unseat the other in state schools.

So, there is a reason why the ACC gets no respect. I mentioned this in a blog last week that there are two things keeping the ACC from being mentioned with the SECs and the Big 12s in terms of dominance - the lack of a national title contender and the inability to win ANY out of conference games. Both took it on the chin this weekend.

VT likely won't fall too far from the top 10 given how they competed and wouldn't give up through the game. A one loss ACC team doesn't have much of a hope, however.

Given how weak this league seems to be, I would be very surprised if VT did not win it. They are clearly the best team in the league, with all respect to FSU and Miami who don't play until tomorrow night.

So, does the ACC deserve an auto bid to the BCS? I bet that BYU, Utah, Boise State and TCU would all give you the same answer.

Absolutely not.

NCAA grants Tide a win, Hokies a loss before kickoff....

2009-09-04T15:56:00.003-04:00

Ok, Ok, so the above is a LITTLE bit misleading, but if anyone has been following the media this week, all the Tide need do is take the field tomorrow night, and a convincing win is proffered. On one hand, it is hard to blame them. It was a mere two years ago when the #9 Hokies took the field in Baton Rouge against eventual national champion LSU and got completely clocked. I understand that perception is what it is for a reason; the ACC is God awful against out of conference competition, particularly the SEC. The ACC took a monumental step in the wrong direction last night, for instance, when at home, the Wolfpack couldn't beat a mediocre-at-best South Carolina squad.

Frank Beamer will be the first one to tell you that tomorrow night's game could mean big things for not only the ACC, but also for Virginia Tech who is 1-24 against AP top 5 teams all time. That's downright bad. But, also consider that VT has only really been relevant in big time college football for about 15 years or so. A lot of those losses came before Beamer's time. To say this is the biggest game in the history of Virginia Tech football might seem an overstatement, but it really isn't. We are at the precipice of something very great here; a national championship in the next 3-5 years is not really so far fetched. In fact, if it doesn't happen then, I fear it never will.

I do think that if VT is going to take the next step into competing for a national title and even being in the discussion, they must win games like this. When you consider the big time games that VT has played (#1 FSU in 99, #7 LSU in 2002, #2 Miami in 2003, #1 USC and #3 Auburn in 2004), there has been great opportunity for wins. Now is the time to make it happen.

Tech will field a vastly underrated team tomorrow night with a fast, athletic defense and an offense that is ready to take the next step forward, albeit without Darren Evans.

Don't get me wrong; Alabama fields a strong team in its own right. But what the media seems to neglect is the fact that they lost 3 starters from their offensive line, including an All American in the NFL now, an all conference running back, and an experienced quarterback. Sure, they have Julio Jones. Fine. No question. But who is going to block to get him space when Bud Foster sicks the dogs on all that inexperience? The offensive line is the most important part of any offense. Just ask VT. It has been our Achilles Heel until this year. Expect to see much better pass and run blocking then in season's past.

Will we run and thrown for 300 yards against Bama's tough defense? Doubtful. Will Bama roll over VT? Doubtful. Will special teams and turnovers dictate the winner? Almost certainly.

Nick Saban is a very, very good coach. He has recruited top tier talent to Tuscaloosa. The SEC is flat out better then the ACC. All the above our true. But it's time to change perception, and it starts now. The loss of Darren Evans is important, but not a deal breaker. You will meet Ryan Williams and David Wilson soon enough, and be impressed. I am predicting a low scoring, defensive football game between two teams that are mirror images of one another: a run first offense that loves to play ball control, control the clock offense setting up the play action pass. A defense that thrives on misdirection and confusing blitzes that force lesser quarterbacks into rough decisions and turnovers.

Thankfully, I am not a member of the media:

VT 17 Bama 13

GO HOKIES!

Weekend Pickoff - Week 1

2009-09-03T15:46:00.002-04:00

Week One is FINALLY here. Aside from Miami and Florida State, all the ACC teams venture out of conference. Some of the premiere matchups include the SEC, Big 12 and PAC 10. There are two things that keep the ACC from being an elite league - the first is the lack of legitimate national title contenders year in and year out. The second, is how poorly they have fared in out of conference games. They can take a big step towards both this weekend

South Carolina at North Carolina State

Last year's game saw the Gamecocks shutting out the Pack. Russell Wilson is healthy, and the game is in Raleigh. Here's hoping they can get off to a better start then in year's past:

NC State 21 South Carolina 17

Jacksonville State at Georgia Tech

We won't learn much from this game. We know the Jacket's offense is highly prolific, and it's question marks at defense are not likely to show here. My bet is a LOT of touches for Heismann hopeful Jonathan Dwyer and tons of yards.

GT 49 Jax St 13

Northeastern at Boston College

This figures to be a down year for the Eagles. Word in Chestnut Hill is three quarterbacks may end up seeing the field for this opener. The defense should once again be fantastic, but settling on a quarterback in Spaziani's debut is job one.

BC 31 NE 6

Baylor at Wake Forest

Don't let Baylor fool you; they may have the best quarterback in the Big 12. And that includes Colt McCoy and Heismann winner Sam Bradford. The Bears turned the ball over five times last year, and Wake doesn't play particularly well at home. Not to mention Wake lost a ton of talent to the NFL from their defense.

Wake 28 Baylor 24

Middle Tennessee at Clemson

Don't get me wrong, Clemson is a good team. But we have all learned our lesson in praising them too early. They have Georgia Tech a week from today and might be looking ahead. Not to mention Middle Tennessee DID beat Maryland a year ago.

Clemson 35 Middle Tennessee 28

The Citadel at North Carolina

Sigh, another cupcake. Again, UNC is solid, and they could easily win their first 6 games without breaking a sweat. We won't learn much here.

UNC 41 The Citadel 13

William and Mary at Virginia

Virginia is installing a new spread offense and looks to have several quarterbacks in the backfield. William and Mary isn't BAD and Richmond did almost beat the Hoos in Charlottesville last year. Wins are at a premium, UVA. Get them while you can.

UVA 28 William and Mary 14

Richmond at Duke

This one looks good on paper. Don't let Richmond fool you; they won the national championship last year for their division and have a ton of talent on their squad. Duke will be looking to make a bowl game and will need every win it can get from their out of conference schedule.

Duke 27 Richmond 16

Alabama at Virginia Tech (in Atlanta)

Now THIS is what college football is all about. Eschewing the cupcake schedule for a bowl game in September. Both Saban and Beamer know that a win would mean tons in terms of getting to Pasadena in January, but a loss isn't necessarily a dagger. Expect a lot of line of scrimmage controlling, running and smashmouth defense.

Pick to come tomorrow

Miami (FL) at #18 FSU

This game used to be the game of the year when Miami was in the Big East. It has lost a lot of luster ever since. Miami hasn't been all that good since 2003. Miami has a new offensive coordinator and FSU has some new talent on defense. I think the team that limits turnovers and can run the ball more effectively, wins. Both teams sport super solid offensive lines.

FSU 31 Miami (FL) 21

Gazing into the Crystal Ball.....

2009-08-29T10:04:00.002-04:00

So, this is how I see the teams RIGHT NOW. Not how I see them finishing the season.

Based on talent coming back, coaching, and schedule. I have put my best guess as to how their record will turn out next to each team. We'll see how wrong I really was come December.

ATLANTIC

Florida State (10-2)
NC State (9-3)
Clemson (9-3)
Wake Forest (8-4)
Maryland (7-5)
Boston College (6-6)

COASTAL

Virginia Tech (11-1)
Georgia Tech (9-3)
North Carolina (9-3)
Miami (8-4)
Virginia (6-6)
Duke (5-7)

The Final Countdown...

2009-08-28T20:15:00.002-04:00

Is it really a week from TOMORROW until the first college football Saturday of the 2009 season? WOW. In a way, it has been a long time coming, but it also just feels like the Orange Bowl came to a close.

VT has looked good in preseason scrimmages and practices. But the proof will be in the pudding. How will they look under the lights against #5 Alabama in a week? Only time will tell.

Five things to know before this game -

(1) The first team defense is flat out nasty. The weakness (if you can even consider it that) of this group, is the linebackers. Only because they don't have experience. They are still playing aggressive though.

(2) The loss of Darren Evans hurts - but there is quality depth there. Ryan Williams will be a household name before you know it, and David Wilson will make his presence known too.

(3) The first team offensive line is FINALLY ready to assert itself. Most of the offensive woes over the past 4 years can be attributed to lack of depth and holes in recruiting. This group is finally gelling.

(4) This is FINALLY Tyrod's team. No looking over the shoulder. This is his offense to direct.

(5) This offense will finish in the top 60 in offense. That doesn't sound too good, but given the fact that VT has won the ACC in back to back seasons with offenses in the 100s.

HOKIE HOKIE HOKIE HI folks. It's time to kick it off!!!

Back in the swing....

2009-08-08T09:03:00.002-04:00

Greetings, fellow Hokies!! The hiatus is officially over. The months from the end of March Madness to the beginning of summer football are long and arduous, it seems! The football team returned to campus to begin summer ball on Thursday and the season kicks off in less then a month. I can't believe it is almost here! Frank is very excited about what his team can do and hasn't shied away from questions about all the hype. There is even a huge banner on his tower on the practice field that reads 'A journey of 1000 miles begins with one step.' Clearly, they understand the potential.

With early August also comes the preseason coaches poll, which was released yesterday. Clearly the coaches have much love with VT as well, pitting them 7th over all in the country. See the full rankings here.

In all, 4 of Tech's opponents are already top 25 teams. It is possible that Miami and NC State could sneak in there as well, by the time VT plays them.

So, camp has begun. Hype is everywhere. In the past, that has been a bad thing. I don't see any selfish kids on this team, though. No one who is more interested in a SportsCenter Top 10 play then gutting out a hard fought win. I think these kids get it. More importantly, they know the one thing Frank Beamer DOESN'T have is a National Championship trophy.

We'll see if the cards fall just right soon enough.

Great Expectations

2009-05-17T09:36:00.003-04:00

There's no getting around it.

People are expecting great things from the 2009 edition of the Hokie football squad.

Throughout the entire spring, much was made of redshirt freshman phenom Ryan Williams. If you didn't see his Playstation-esque moves, you soon will. Chances are he will make several Sportscenter highlight reels come October.

Frank found himself a backup quarterback, which was the major goal of spring ball. JuJu (as he is called) at times looked crisp and prepared, and at times looked like deer-in-the-headlights. Against our defense, wouldn't you?

Bud will field his typical stout first team defense, but the issue comes, as usual, with depth. If any linebacker or secondary player goes down, there is cause for concern. Of course, we don't play a snap until September, so there is still time.

Mark Schlabach of ESPN ranked his post-spring Top 25 going into fall. You can see it here.

It won't be the last time you see something of great expectations for the Hokies this fall. The heavyweight bout between fellow top-10 Alabama to start the season has ESPN salivating, and for good reason.

Should be a good one. Bama starts a new tailback, a new offensive line and a new QB. Think Bud is excited to unleash his defense on those newbies?

For a change, the offense grabbed the headlines from our spring practices, and it could be fun to watch them work. We've missed that since about 2002.

Here's to a season with Great Expectations. 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,' Dickens said.

Let's hope for the best of times.

Spring Fever

2009-04-10T08:15:00.003-04:00

The basketball season has quietly come and gone and now us Hokie fans are relegated to months of anticipation before the 2009 football campaign begins in full swing. In case you hadn't heard, the upcoming season could bring some great things. There are a lot of expectations now for this crew, and if you have been following Hokie football over the past 10 years, you know that is not where the Hokies shine. However, this team seems focused and not too high on themselves, so time will tell.

Spring football has begun in earnest and VT has its first official scrimmage tomorrow. Tyrod looks good, but the challenge is finding quality depth behind him. The battle is between JuJu Clayton and Marcus Davis; both bring strengths to the position.

Heather Dinich, ESPN's blogger to the ACC, recently wrote the below entry regarding the ACC's defensive tradition. A good read, especially if you are a Hokie fan!

Happy Easter all!

Getting defensive.

Drink your water

2009-03-16T20:27:00.002-04:00

As if Louisville head coach Rick Pitino needs reminding of one of the most nightmarish sequence of seconds in his life, word is he and Christian Laettner are going to be sharing TV time promoting Vitamin Water. It has promise to be pretty clever.

For any basketball fan who needs a refresher on the most iconic play in college basketball history, here you go.

And as March Madness officially begins Thursday, why not?

Since the site doesn't appear to want to cooperate....

2009-02-13T07:47:00.002-05:00

the schedule is below:

September 5 - @ Alabama in Atlanta (neutral site)
September 12 - Marshall
September 19 - Nebraska
September 26 - Miami
October 3 - @ Duke
October 10 - Boston College
October 17 - @ Georgia Tech
October 29 - UNC (Thurs)
November 5 - @ ECU (Thurs)
November 14 - @ Maryland
November 21 - NC State
November 28 - @ UVA

Powerful non-conference slate highlights Hokies 2009 football schedule

2009-02-13T07:36:00.003-05:00

Well, we knew who we were playing and where. The question was when. Now the mystery is over.

For those of you who have diligently followed VT football over the last 10 years or so, you know that one of the major complaints that come from outside the VT camp is how soft their non-conference schedule is and how they don't play a meaningful game until October. You remember the song - Start 5-0, finish 7-5. That has changed since VT joined the ACC, and not only are the Hokies going to be playing one heck of a non-conference schedule, but they do it early.

September finds VT playing at Alabama, and home against Marshall, Nebraska and Miami. That's some month! The good news is while most teams are yawning through their I-AA opponents, Tech will be forging the steel.

As usual, Tech has 2 Thursday nighters, including a surprising late trip in November to ECU. What is disappointing somewhat is 3 of the last 4 games on the road, but on the whole, a nice schedule.

With VT sure to be a top 10 preseason pick, expect the majority of the matchups to be nationally televised again.

Is it August yet?

Is Malcolm Delaney any good?

2009-01-27T13:53:00.001-05:00

Seriously this kid is scary good, and only a sophomore. How he got out of Gary Williams' clutches at Maryland is beyond me. The Baltimore native impresses once again and earns ACC player of the week honors and Rivals.com national player of the week honors.

The future is bright.

Don't look now, but VT is currently in 2nd place behind league-leading Duke in the ACC standings. I know, I know it's early. But the team is hitting its stride at just the right time. March Madness could be a reality soon enough.

What is it about #1's?

2009-01-23T08:42:00.002-05:00

OK Hokie fans, admittedly I have been on a rather LONG hiatus from writing. I was sick for a while around the Orange Bowl and crazy busy since BUT I promise to get back into the swing. I will be writing on the Orange Bowl and the preview for next season soon, but I feel we need to get into the 'other' sport that has us Hokie fans crazy right now and that is men's hoops.

Sure, the Hokies LOVE to lose those clunkers to Penn State and Georgia and Richmond and Marshall. It happens every year. But on the other side of the pendulum are those crazy games when the level of desire and hard work match the best teams in the country they are playing and they unseat a top-ranked leviathan.

Consider this.

2005. Virginia Tech is in Krzyzewski-ville taking on the #1 Blue Devils. It's a back and forth affair, but Tech finds itself up 1 with 1 second remaining. Game over right?

Wrong. If you can bear to watch it again, please do, but Sean Dockery hits a half court prayer with time expiring to beat the Hokies. BUT we came close.

2006. You remember the dream season where we went to the NCAA tournament. The Hokies dethroned #1 North Carolina in Blacksburg.

2007. Who could forget the ACC tournament where the Hokies had the #1 Tarheels on the ropes AGAIN and needed a miracle baseline jumper from Hansbourough to beat VT by 2.

2009. VT at Wake. Wake lead for all of 26 seconds. VT outrebounded them, outhustled them and outplayed them for the whole of the game and FINALLY stole a road win against the #1 team in the country.

It's a long season. No question. We will lose some we shouldn't and win some we shouldn't. A 10 win ACC season is not out of the question yet and shouldn't be. This team could still be dancing in March.

If only the rest of our games were against #1's.

Some Hokie Nuggets....

2008-12-20T11:31:00.002-05:00

Happy Holidays all!

There hasn't been much to post since the game in Tampa, but there have been some developments in the past week or so. Instead of single entries, I will keep everything nice and tidy -

(1) Victor "Macho" Harris was named a First Team All-American by the Sporting News this past week. He was named a Second Team All-American earlier in the month. The most impressive stat is this keeps alive an impressive streak that Bud Foster has had an All-American named from his defense in the last 15 seasons that he has been coordinator or co-coordinator at VT. That's silly.

(2) In a matchup that has been in the works for months, it has finally been confirmed that VT will open the 2009 season in Atlanta to face Alabama. If both VT and Alabama win their BCS games, it is likely they will both be preseason top 10 teams. ESPN might hype this game just a little.

(3) Redshirt Freshman Darren Evans was named a First Team All-American to the freshman team. He was one of the lone bright spots on the offense this year and the first freshman at VT to rush for over 1000 yards.

More to come. Happy Holidays all!

Eight points....a measley eight points....

2008-12-12T21:27:00.002-05:00

Andy Katz of ESPN wrote a nice blog (as nice as it can be to read) on the Hokies' latest basketball woes.

The good news is, VT is losing to good teams, and barely. But there are precious few out of conference games remaining. If VT wants to dance come March, they will likely need to win some key games in conference play.

I couldn't have said it better myself...

2008-12-09T12:03:00.002-05:00

so why try?

Billy Roth has been the 'Voice of the Hokies' for what seems like forever. He hosts the 'Hokie Hotline,' he hosts 'Virginia Tech Sports Today,' and he calls most of the Hokie sport's match ups throughout the year.

He recapped the football campaign of 2008 perfectly.

Give it a read.

Evans

2008-12-07T11:14:00.002-05:00

There a million reasons to love this Tech team this year.

Evans is high on my list.

The Bowl Picture

2008-12-07T09:53:00.002-05:00

MUCH clearer today - should be close to the below:

Eaglebank Bowl - Wake Forest
Car Care - North Carolina
Champs Sports - FSU
Emerald - Miami (FL)
Humanitarian - Maryland
Music City - Boston College
Chick-Fil-A - Georgia Tech
Gator - Clemson
Orange - Virginia Tech

NC State may go bowling, but it would have to be in a 10th game which the ACC doesn't have a tie-in with. We'll find out tonight!

Orange you glad...

2008-12-07T09:16:00.002-05:00

*Macho came back for his senior season
*Tyrod is finally managing the game with his feet and his head
*Jason Worlids and Orion Martin are on your side
*We have Bud Foster as our DC
*Two words - Cody Grimm
*We don't have to deal with Darren Evans running US over
*We have a team that has improved week to week
*We are back in the BCS with a chance at an unprecedented FIVE SEASONS in a row with 10 or more wins
*Corey Holt can knock Beamer out on the sideline and he is STILL dancing in the locker room after the game
*That we have Frank Beamer

ACC Champions....again

2008-12-07T09:04:00.002-05:00

They took an unlikely road with an unlikely team, but Virginia Tech is back where they feel comfortable - conference champions. They have not repeated as conference champions since 1995-1996 when they won the Big East back to back. But Frank didn't have this team back then, which makes this trip all the more memorable. Consider the following:

* Tech lost all 4 starting wide receivers to the NFL
* Tech is starting all freshmen at both the running back and wide receiver positions
* Tech is starting a true sophomore quarterback
* Tech lost 8 starters from its tremendous defense to the NFL
* Tech lost THREE contributors in the wide receiver position to injury and suspension

That is A LOT of attrition and injury to deal with as coaches. Frank has always had talent in Blacksburg, at least for the last 13 years or so. But part of recruiting is always having guys waiting in the wings to roll when guys depart. Unfortunately for some dumb luck and bad timing, these guys had to be ready to contribute from day one. Jarrett Boykin and Darrell Roberts are both true freshman wide outs. TRUE FRESHMAN. Meaning they were taking their SATs at this time last year. And they put on one heck of a show yesterday.

This is not even to say what Bud Foster has done with EIGHT new starters. Still a top 10 defense. Still rattling opposing quarterbacks. Still with the non-offensive touchdowns. Enough already, Bud. We get it. You're amazing.

So, we are 9-4. Another conference championship. Another Orange bowl.

What next?

How about winning it? The ACC is a paltry 1-6 in it's last 7 attempts at the BCS. The lone win? We all remember it too well. FSU over Virginia Tech in the 2000 National Championship. It's time to get the ACC back on track. A date with Cincinnati on New Years seems like the perfect opportunity. I tell you, if Tech controls the clock, moves the ball, and plays the defense it did yesterday, they will be tough to stop.

And finally, how about some props to the ACC this year. For all its critics, the ACC had 10 teams with winning conference records. TEN. No conference in the history of college football can boast that. Nor sending TEN teams to bowl games. Sure, there is no elite or great team in the league. But there are some mighty fine ones. Just as LSU when they play Georgia Tech. Or Nebraska when they face Clemson. Or Wisconsin when FSU comes calling....

Or Cincinnati when they meet VT in the Orange Bowl.

Defense, defense, defense......

2008-12-05T08:50:00.002-05:00

I think most Hokie fans would agree that after ripping 4 straight in September/October, things were looking bright for winning the division. But then losing back to back games to FSU and BC, things were a little, um....less certain. We needed a few things to happen to get back in mix and take care of business at home - both of which we did.

So, it's down to this. A winner-take-all match up in Tampa tomorrow and to the winner go the spoils. To the loser goes - well, in all likelihood, the Music City Bowl in Nashville. There are a few things I am going to be keeping my eyes on tomorrow:

(1) How does redshirt freshman Dominic Davis fare against Bud Foster's aggressive defense? I am sure Coach Jags is not going to "make" Davis win the game with his arm, but can he manage the game smartly, not turn the ball over and let his own defense close the deal? Can Foster turn the game AGAIN with turnovers?

(2) How does our offensive line handle their front seven? It is no secret that Boston College is stout up front - I mean "darker-then-Guinness" stout. We struggled to run the ball against them back in October, and if we rush for over 100 yards, I will be shocked. The key is to mix certain play calls that loosen up the defense up front.

(3) Can Tyrod have back-to-back good games? Again, I am sure we are going to play it conservative, try to play field position and let our defense get some points or yards for us. But TT may have to make a few passes for us. The problem is BC leads the country with 32 interceptions. Yikes!

This game is a pick-em in most betting circles - meaning there is no line, and it could really go either way. I see the same. VT is #6 in total defense, and BC is #8. Don't expect to see an Oklahoma-Oklahoma State rematch here in terms of yards and points folks. Both coaches will be striving to take opportunities when they can, not force anything that the opposing defense can take advantage of, and win the special teams battle.

If VT wins the game, they will have won the ACC 3 years in the last 5. That's pretty good.

I hope I am wrong, but.....

BC 20 VT 17

GO HOKIES!!!!

Getting Bowled Over

2008-12-03T07:50:00.002-05:00

Hokie fans, root for VT to win Saturday.

No, really. I mean REALLY root for them to win. As if you weren't already.

We all know what happens if VT defeats BC on Saturday. Tech would jump to 9-4 on the season, win the ACC, and be the conference representative in the BCS. Orange Bowl. Nice.

Should VT happen to lose? Then it gets dicey.

No Mark, there are plenty of good bowls. Why wouldn't VT get one?

Gator? They have already accepted Clemson. (7-5 Clemson, mind you)
Chick-Fil-A? They are this close to accepting Georgia Tech (local)
Champs Sports? They really, really want FSU

What does that leave us?

Well, Continental Tire really wants UNC.

The Music City in Nashville is the likely destination for the loser of Saturday's game against Vanderbilt. Yes, Vanderbilt.

It's easy Tech. Win Saturday and it's Orange.

Lose Saturday and it's ........

Tuesday thoughts...

2008-12-02T07:49:00.003-05:00

I know, I know...it's the biggest week of the year for VT football and you haven't heard a peep out of me since before Thanksgiving. There are a lot of things to talk about here, and I won't try to divide them out into multiple posts.

(1) It seems when we have our best offensive days (and yes, this qualified as one), we have the unenviable issue of not being able to finish drives and capitalize while in the red zone. This game should NOT have been as nail-biting as it was. We dominated all the metrics - time of possession, first downs, yardage. Just not the one that counted - the score. We missed a FG, couldn't convert a 4th and goal, and threw a pick in the endzone. Assuming the worst we would have gotten there was 9 points for the three possessions, the final is 26-14. MUCH nicer. Assume TDs? 35-14. Eek.

(2) Bud Foster deserves a statue. Seriously, the guy loses eight, count them EIGHT players off of his great defense last year to the NFL, has to shift guys around, and still has the sixth best defense in the country? Take a look at the below. If somehow VT can limit yards over the next two games, VT will be the ONLY team in division I to have 5 top 5 defenses since 2004. Um, that's silly.

2008 - 6th
2007 - 4th
2006 - 1st
2005 - 1st
2004 - 4th

Well, it's BC. Again. There are a few reasons I feel better about the matchup this go around. Their QB is out and a guy who has started one game will be facing Bud's D. Ron Brace, the mammoth DT may be out. Our offense is playing much better, especially throwing and catching then we were the last time we met, AND we only lost by 5 then.

Don't expect a lot of points people. VT is 6th in total D and BC is 8th. Points will be at a premium. Both teams love to score non-offensive TDs. That may be the only the way the endzone is reached.

Kudos to Frank and his coaching staff for taking a very young and inexperienced team, riddled with doubt and injuries, back to another ACC championship. The future is bright.

Go Hokies!

Why God loves VT (and hates it....)

2008-12-02T07:41:00.002-05:00

We have all seen the shirts.

God must be a Hokie because the leaves turn maroon and orange in the fall.

Clever, no?

Last night just reaffirmed to me why God IS NOT a Hokie. For the second time this season, VT was playing a ranked team with a marvelous opportunity to beef up its RPI and out of conference resume for the tournament in March. And just like Xavier, they lost to Wisconsin at the lost second.

Seriously, how does this happen? It can't be skill. These last second shots are not skillful - they are lucky.

VT is down 13 with 4 to go. Game over, right? I sure thought so.

But somehow VT went deep into their heart and found what it took to claw back in, point by point, possession by possession. Three point shot after three point shot, the game was tied with 7 seconds. OT right?

Wrong.

I personally cannot watch it again, but for those who didn't see it. Here you go.

Add this to the ever growing list of teams that have done this to us.

Duke in 2005
Clemson in 2006
Wake in 2007
UNC in 2007 (will anyone ever forget the last second shot by Hansborough to deny us the championship game?)
Xavier 2008
Wisconsin 2008

Let's hope the list stays there for now.

My heart can't take another one.

All-ACC team announced

2008-12-02T07:39:00.002-05:00

The ACC has announced it's all-conference football team, and four Hokies were honored.

For the second year in a row, Victor "Macho" Harris was named a first team corner.

On the second team, R-freshman running back Darren Evans made the team with his impressive first year. Rounding out the second team were offensive guard Sergio Render and defensive ends Jason Worilds and Orion Martin.

Congrats to the boys!

Happy Thanksgiving - early picks!

2008-11-25T08:45:00.002-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving all - I won't have internet access (or much of it) Thursday or Friday, so the picks come early this year. The ACC race comes down to two teams on Saturday. Who gets it?

GT at UGA

Sure, Georgia is at home, appears to be the better team, lots of playmakers on both sides. But, oh that triple option. Can anyone defend it?

GT 28 UGA 24

Miami (Fl) at NC State

Is there a hotter team in the last month then the Wolfpack. It's easy - if they beat Miami, they go bowling. Should be a no brainer.

NCSU 28 UM 21

South Carolina at Clemson

Clemson needs to win this game to be bowl eligible. It's the last home game for those seniors, and Clemson hates, I mean HATES South Carolina. My bet is they get it done.

Clemson 31 USC-E 24

UF at FSU

Hmm, this could be interesting. Florida has been ripping people to shreds of late, but FSU has the guns to stop them. Can FSU move on UFs D? Can FSU stop Tebow and company?

UF 31 FSU 29

Vanderbilt at Wake Forest

Both teams are already bowl eligible, but Wake would like to increase their bowl stock.

WFU 24 Vandy 21

ACC Championship Game qualifiers

Maryland at BC

It's easy. If BC wins, they win the Atlantic. If Maryland upset them on the road, FSU gets the nod. Sure, BC is without their starting QB, but their defense can easily win this game on their own. BC leads the country with 32 picks. Um, that's pretty good.

BC 24 MD 13

UVA at VT

It's easy. If VT takes care of business at home, they head to Tampa representing the Coastal. If UVA pulls the unlikely upset, the Jackets will take their place willingly. I think VT opens up the floodgates on offense and has (another) red letter day on defense.

VT 24 UVA 6

In honor of UVA week....

2008-11-24T19:59:00.001-05:00

Just a little walk down memory lane to quite possibly the greatest comeback in Virginia Tech football history - 1995 at UVA.

Bill Roth's voice tells the story.

FINALLY the ACC is getting clearer

2008-11-23T08:57:00.001-05:00

Well, it seems this whole season has been about a game of hot potato.

"No that's ok. I know we are favored and winning and expected to roll, but it's too hot. You take it."

Nearly every team in the conference that has faced prosperity has just as quickly surrendered it.

Virginia Tech
Virginia
Florida State
Boston College
Georgia Tech
Miami

And on and on.

Before yesterday, the vast tiebreaker scenarios for each division would make Einstein pause, but at long last, the divisions break down to a total of four teams that can get to Tampa next Saturday.

If Virginia Tech beats UVA in Lane Stadium Saturday, they win the Coastal.
If Virginia beats VT, Georgia Tech wins the Coastal.

If Boston College beats Maryland in Chestnut Hill next Saturday, they win the Atlantic.
If Maryland beats BC, FSU wins the Atlantic.

That's it. Just four teams now in a position to be conference champs.

FSU and BC are the two teams I don't want to face.

Heck, not sure if I'd want to face Duke again.

Bud Foster

2008-11-23T08:54:00.001-05:00

Aaron McFarlane of the Roanoke Times wrote an article this morning that sums up everything I was feeling when I was watching the Duke game last night. There was one bright spot in the game last night, and that includes coaching. Bud Foster never stops and it seems more and more often he is "winning" games for VT. If Weaver and Beamer let him get away, we are in for some really troubled times.

Defense wins.

UVA/VT game time has been set

2008-11-23T08:50:00.001-05:00

The Hokies and Cavs will kick off at noon on November 29th and will be televised by ESPN.

Mr. Toad's Wild Ride continues...

2008-11-21T06:57:00.003-05:00

Well, Hokie lovers - Thursday a week ago, we had just fallen by 2 points on the road to Miami and all seemed lost. All of the sudden, Virginia Tech was no longer in the proverbial driver's seat, and needed some help from it's ACC compatriots.

First, UNC had a date with Maryland last Saturday and the Terps proved to be "the guy who doesn't call you back." Next, Miami had to travel to a raucous crowd in Atlanta last night for their final home game of the year. Senior Night. White Out. You know the drill.

The Canes ended up getting run all over (nearly 500 yards, to be exact). So, this begs the question, how does that crazy, wacky division sort itself out? Last night, Chris Fowler on ESPN tried to make it sound way more complicated then it really is.

Consider this. IF Virginia Tech wins tomorrow against Duke AND beats Virginia in the season finale, they would be 5-3 in conference play.

As would Georgia Tech.
And North Carolina.
Even Miami gets in on the fun.

So, we are all 5-3. Where next? Check the head-to-head matchups first.

Carolina beat Miami who beat Virginia Tech who beat Georgia Tech who beat Miami who....ugh, my head hurts. Suffice it to say, the head to heads all end in a draw, since we beat each other up.

The REAL tiebreaker is in the division record (record against Coastal opponents)

VT (4-1) (lost to Miami)
Georgia Tech (2-3) (lost to VT, UVA and UNC)
Miami (3-2) (lost to GT and UNC)
UNC (3-2) (lost to UVA and VT)

We win out on division record and head to Tampa.

That's right boys and girls. If we beat Duke and UVA to finish the season, we will play in our third ACCCG in 4 years. Not bad for a struggling young team, eh.

GO HOKIES!!!!!

View from the Hive - the rants and ramblings of a Jacket Junkie...

2008-11-16T15:26:00.004-05:00

...at least for this week.

That's right folks. This Thursday, wear yellow to work.

Learn the Georgia Tech fight song.

Read up on their football lore and history.

Because if Georgia Tech beats Miami on Thursday night, we are back in control of our destiny. No foolin.

With Maryland's timely win over North Carolina yesterday afternoon, Carolina and VT are now tied with 3 conference losses. Miami has two.

For now, they are at the top. But as anyone who has watched this crazy ACC knows, being at the top is the worst place to be.

Maryland was at the top a week ago. Lost in Blacksburg.
Wake Forest was at the top yesterday. Lost in Raleigh.
Florida State was at the top last night. Lost in Tallahassee.

Yikes.

If Miami loses on the road Thursday night (very possible, just ask all the Thursday night road teams to date), there will be a three-way tie at the top of the Coastal with UNC - VT - Miami sharing the lead.

If you get dizzy after hearing the below, take a minute and close your eyes.

To break the tie, they first go to head to head.

Virginia Tech beat North Carolina.
North Carolina beat Miami.
Miami beat Virginia Tech.

Hmmm. There goes that.

Next, they go to division record (record against Coastal opponents). This is where the Hokies get the edge.

VT (2-1)
Miami (2-2)
Carolina (1-2)

If Virginia Tech wins out (against Duke and UVA, both at home) and Miami loses Thursday night, we are in Tampa.

So get our your golds and yellows. Even let a bee sting you this week.

We are all Yellowjackets. GO GEORGIA TECH!!!!

Royal treatment

2008-11-13T11:48:00.001-05:00

A nice article in Denver about one of our favorite Hokies.

Making his case for Rookie of the Year for sure.

Good stuff.

ACC Weekend Pickoff

2008-11-13T07:03:00.003-05:00

Considering there is a Thursday night game tonight (who is playing in that again?) I figured I would make my picks this morning. The conference race is getting a little clearer, but there is still a logjam in both conferences. Some of that can be sorted out this weekend.

Off we go.

VT at Miami (Thurs night)

Virginia Tech has lost to Miami three times in the last ten years. That's pretty good. As well as beaten Miami the last two trips they have played down in Florida. That's not bad either. VT is coming off a big game and momentum should be with them. Conversely, Miami is coming off of a bye week. VT will look to continue their running success, but Sean will likely need to pass to move the ball. Both teams are very young, but Miami has the two freshman QBs. Think Bud Foster might have a field day tonight? Me too.

VT 23 Miami 14

Clemson at Duke

Since Clemson scheduled two FCS schools on its schedule, it now needs to win out JUST to become bowl eligible. The schedule? Duke, then at Virginia and finally at South Carolina. Ouch. At least they can get Part I this weekend.

Clemson 31 Duke 25

UNC at Maryland

One of the bigger games of the weekend, Maryland is coming off a disappointing road loss to VT and hosts the hottest team in the conference UNC. Maryland needs to win out to go to the ACCCG and don't think Maryland doesn't come out fired up. This one is a toss up in my head. I can see Maryland winning and I can see UNC being too good, but...

UNC 24 Maryland 21

BC at FSU

This is another biggie. BC can destroy several teams' hopes to get to the championship game, starting with the Noles. FSU is hitting their stride on offense and their defense is suffocating good offenses, much less bad ones like BC. Too much at home.

FSU 31 FSU 23

And now for an unscheduled rant...

2008-11-13T06:56:00.002-05:00

I have yet to use this medium to vent out my frustrations about, well, anything yet - but that is all about to change.

We all know the ACC seems like a 10 team race, at least it feels that way. But watching any media coverage you want the past week, you would assume the UNC is already headed to Tampa. The fact that they are getting so much love from the media doesn't bother me nearly as much as how they are framing the Coastal picture. Any non-ACC follower would assume that all UNC has to do is beat Maryland, NC State and Duke and they can punch their ticket to Florida.

Not so.

Their two losses happen to be to two Coastal teams. UVA and Virginia Tech. They need BOTH of these teams to lose. One of those teams did lose, last week. UVA fell miserably on the road to Wake Forest.

Check.

Check this out talking media heads. If Virginia Tech beats Miami tonight, and cruises through Duke and UVA at home, where will UNC be in early December?

Watching the ACC Championship game from Chapel Hill.

Sorry guys, but Virginia Tech has won the ACC 2 of the 4 years it has been in it, and played for it yet a third year. Why not even mention VT as a possibility to win the division? Has UNC ever won the ACC? Has UNC ever challenged for the ACC? Why all the love?

Yes, they are 7-2 and look to be the best team in the conference right now. Blah, blah, blah.

They lost AT HOME to Virginia Tech.

Believe me, if VT loses tonight at Miami, I will be the first one to say that UNC deserves to go, should they win out.

IF.

Let's go Bowling V

2008-11-09T13:13:00.002-05:00

Things just keep on changing. The latest wrinkle? Since Clemson played two teams from the FCS, they have to win out (last three games) just to get bowl eligible.

Congressional Bowl - Duke (ACC #9)
Meineke Car Care - Boston College (ACC #5)
Champs Sports - Georgia Tech (ACC #4)
Emerald Bowl - Wake Forest (ACC #7)
Humanitarian Bowl - Miami (FL) (ACC #8)
Music City Bowl - Maryland (ACC #6)
Chick-fil-A Bowl - North Carolina(ACC #2)
Gator Bowl - Florida State (ACC #3)
Orange Bowl - Virginia Tech (ACC #1)

Getting Defensive...

2008-11-09T09:39:00.002-05:00

Much was made about the ACC being one of the weaker leagues in the BCS at the beginning of the season. When is a team going to break out, when are teams going to win out of conference games and when will we win a BCS game? Well, no team has really broken out, but there are so many good teams in conference and few bad ones.

Consider this. Two teams out of 12 have losing records. TWO. That's impressive.

That is bound to change though. Virginia is now 5-5 with games against Clemson and Virginia Tech remaining. Yes, Clemson comes to Charlottesville, but the Tigers need to win out to make a bowl. It is very possible that Virginia finishes 5-7 on the year.

We all know that FSU, Miami and VT always have stout defenses, but check this out.

There are FIVE teams from the ACC in the top 25 in total defense to date:

(5) FSU
(9) Boston College
(15) Miami (FL)
(16) Georgia Tech
(18) Virginia Tech

Talk about having a league identity.

How about Bud Foster losing eight of 11 starters to the NFL, having to start some new guys who have never played before and STILL being in the top 20 in the country in total defense?

Give this guy a raise and QUICK. He is going to be a head coach real soon.

Running away with it

2008-11-09T09:26:00.002-05:00

We all know there are three keys to Virginia Tech football - the way Frank Beamer would ideally like every game to go.

(1) Ball control offense - a power running game.
(2) Opportunistic defense - a score or two wouldn't hurt.
(3) Control Time of Possession.

On Thursday night, we got all three. Aside from giving up yet another big play, the defense was stout and outstanding. We all know what Darren Evans did, running for a school record 253 yards on 32 carries. Oh, and by the way, he is a redshirt freshman. Yikes.

The most impressive part of the game was at the end of the fourth quarter. There was roughly 6 minutes left in the game, we were nursing a 10 point lead, and starting from our own 5 yard line. Virginia Tech knew what it was going to do, Virginia Tech fans knew what they were going to do, and more importantly, Maryland knew what they were going to do. 70 yards later with the game over, Tech ran the ball on every down, getting first down after first down on the ground. Maryland knew we were going to salt the game away running the ball and they still couldn't stop it. That is special.

Tech seems to have found its tailback and he looked good - real good - especially when he was absolutely crushing a Terp. It deserves a second view, no?

The best thing is that VT still controls its own destiny. Win the next three, and we are Tampa bound. Best yet, Wake or Maryland are the most likely teams to win the Atlantic, and those matchups are very favorable for the Hokies.

One stat to consider - since 2004, Virginia Tech is undefeated in November.

Oh my.

Welcome to the Terror Dome

2008-11-06T07:29:00.002-05:00

There are a few teams that could remind Maryland how tough it is to win in Blacksburg on Thursday night - including Maryland!

In 2006, #10 Clemson came in against an unranked Hokie squad and left licking its Tiger paws after a 24-7 decleating.

In 2005, Maryland came calling and quickly exited after getting drubbed 55-6. It was 14-0 in two minutes, and over 40 points were scored by Tech at halftime.

Nobody in their right mind expects this contest to be that ugly, and with the possibilities at quarterback tonight for the Hokies, it becomes even less clear. So muddy, in fact, that I have three different score predictions depending on the signal caller.

If Cory is the lone starter, we win a close and ugly contest 24-20.

If Cory and Sean end up splitting reps (the most likely scenario from what I am told), I project an easier 28-10 victory.

If Sean is the lone starter, I think it is more like 31-13.

It is key that if Cory gets the majority of the reps that he doesn't try to do too much. He is fairly mobile, but needs to get the high percentage passes off, open up play action with the running game, and not turn the ball over.

I look for our defense to be fired up, as it usually is, on Thursday nights. I expect a few turnovers. And as always, the crowd on Thursday nights is electric.

Take a trip down memory lane as we welcome Maryland back to the Terror Dome.

Let's go Bowling IV

2008-11-02T15:07:00.002-05:00

As promised, the ACC is going to come down to the last weekend of conference play before we know who is heading to Tampa for the championship game? The frontrunners? No one.

VT is the only one that controls their own destiny in the Coastal. Win out, and they are in. 3 of 4 are at home. Not bad right?

Maryland controls their destiny in the Atlantic, but must make a pit stop in Blacksburg this Thursday night. Think Ralph needs reminding that VT is 14-2 on Thursday nights since 1994?

My updated bowl picks are below. As promised, they are changing week to week:

Congressional Bowl - Duke (ACC #9)
Meineke Car Care - Boston College (ACC #5)
Champs Sports - Georgia Tech (ACC #4)
Emerald Bowl - Wake Forest (ACC #7)
Humanitarian Bowl - Miami (FL) (ACC #8)
Music City Bowl - North Carolina (ACC #6)
Chick-fil-A Bowl - Florida State (ACC #2)
Gator Bowl - Virginia (ACC #3)
Orange Bowl - Virginia Tech (ACC #1)

This Bud's for you.....or not

2008-11-01T07:44:00.002-04:00

We as Hokie fans know something that most college football enthusiasts know - Bud Foster is one of the best defensive coordinators in the game.

Apparently Clemson knows it too.

They have contacted Bud for the vacancy, but this shouldn't come as a complete shock to anyone. West Virginia contacted him after Rich Rodriguez bolted for the maize and blue last year, and there will be plenty of other programs hungry for new blood at the end of the season that will likely have Bud on their radar.

Bud has always maintained that he would only leave VT if a BCS school wanted him.

Syracuse
Washington
Auburn
Clemson
Tennessee

And those are just off the top of my head.

As Hokie fans, we may want to prepare ourselves for the inevitability of Bud no longer trolling the sidelines invoking fear and intimidation in his classic defenses. It might make the departure easier.

For me, it won't matter. Bud has had as much if not more to do with Virginia Tech's rise to national respect since 1995 then Beamer, in my opinion. Try to imagine the last 15 seasons without Bud's masterful, stingy defenses scoring on interceptions, fumble recoveries, sacks, and zone blitz packages.

I'd rather not.

Here's hoping that Jim Weaver does some maneuvering to try and keep Bud a Hokie. Frank can't coach forever, and who better to take over?

Selfish right? Fair enough. I am being selfish.

Nobody deserves a shot at the big time more then Bud. And if he gets it, I will root him on and support his time as fervently as I have the Hokies. Just hope Tech never has to face him.

Oh dear.

ACC Weekend Pickoff

2008-10-31T11:28:00.003-04:00

Is it almost November already? Man alive!

Well, there aren't too many ACC games this week (only 4 since 4 teams are off). But all of them will go a long way to determining who stays standing in the hunt for the conference championship. Off we go...

Miami (FL) at Virginia

It's Homecoming in C'ville (seriously who has the guts to schedule Miami as your Homecoming game) and the Canes are calling. They are coming off of an impressive win against Wake Forest and we all know how high flying the Cavs are. If Miami can pull off the road win, the Coastal gets very, very interesting. Stopping Cedric Pearman is job one.

Miami 24 UVA 21

Clemson at Boston College

Simply put, BC needs to stop turning the ball over. They have 8 turnovers in their last 2 games. Yikes. Clemson is coming off of a bye week and get C.J. Spiller back in the rotation. Problem is BC's run defense is pretty darn good. As UNC found out last week, BC's weakness is their pass defense. Can Clemson air it out for the win?

BC 31 Clemson 28

Duke at Wake Forest

Duke is 2 wins away from being bowl eligible. No, really. Wake is coming off a tough loss and one more loss will all but eliminate them from the title race. Duke is coming off an impressive road win at Vanderbilt. The ACC is quietly 30-10 in out of conference games. Think that's any good?

Wake Forest 17 Duke 13

FSU at Georgia Tech

The most impressive battle of the weekend is FSU's super young offensive line against Georgia Tech's 1st round draft pick defensive line. GT is coming off a tough loss and one more would all but eliminate them from the Coastal race. Should be fun!

FSU 21 GT 13

OFF (VT, Maryland, UNC and NC State)

Injury Update

2008-10-28T08:36:00.002-04:00

Both of Virginia Tech's quarterbacks Tyrod Taylor and Sean Glennon suffered left high ankle sprains in the loss to FSU on Saturday. They are both in protective walking boots this week and will be reevaluated at week's end. Both are listed as questionable for the Maryland game a week from Thursday. If neither can go, the likely starter would be Cory Holt, who looked good in the last quarter of the FSU game. Converted tight end Greg Boone is also getting some looks at QB this week as well.

Let's go Bowling III

2008-10-26T08:44:00.003-04:00

Ring around the rosy.....so the ACC is going to be different every week - let's just concede that fact now. The Atlantic currently has Maryland and FSU at the top, but the Terps have to navigate Lane Stadium on a Thursday night and FSU must get past a hurt Jacket team in Atlanta next Saturday. The Coastal is even crazier. UVA, who was left for dead after the Duke loss, is now in sole possession of first place. Truly. We'll see who gets out alive. For now, my bowl picks are below.

Congressional Bowl - Clemson (ACC #9)
Meineke Car Care - Boston College (ACC #5)
Champs Sports - Maryland (ACC #4)
Emerald Bowl - Wake Forest (ACC #7)
Humanitarian Bowl - Miami (FL) (ACC #8)
Music City Bowl - North Carolina (ACC #6)
Chick-fil-A Bowl - Virginia Tech (ACC #2)
Gator Bowl - Virginia (ACC #3)
Orange Bowl - Florida State (ACC #1)

Sunday Thoughts...

2008-10-26T08:31:00.002-04:00

I have been watching Hokie football for a long time now, and I honestly can't recall feeling this good about a game we lost.

Consider this.

Tyrod Taylor goes out of the game on the FIRST play from scrimmage with a high ankle sprain. Uh oh. I could just see FSU pinning their ears back and coming full force at Glennon knowing he can't run and has to pass. Not to mention our receivers did not distinguish themselves last weekend, dropping passes and not getting open. Game over right?

Not quite.

VT was up 13-10 at halftime outgaining FSU 204 yards to 70 yards in the half. Not a typo, even though it looks like it. Glennon was outstanding in the first half, connecting with quite a few different receivers. And our defense was superb in the first half as well.

And just like every FSU/VT game I can remember watching, a special teams play turned the game. It was 4th and 20. Bud had just engineered an amazing stand, and we were about to get the ball back. Frank sends the heat and we try to block the punt. Roughing the kicker. 1st and 10. FSU scores on the next 3 plays. Ouch.

Can anything else go wrong? How about losing your second string QB to injury? Sean went out with 5 minutes left in the 3rd quarter and judging my his expressions, his leg had just been amputated without anesthetic. So, our third string QB Cory Holt comes in not having taken snaps in a long, long time. He played very well, considering, leading us to a 4th quarter TD drive and making it a 27-20 game.

As you know, VT ended up losing the game 30-20, but more importantly losing Taylor and Glennon to injury. Early indicators are that Glennon is in better shape then Taylor, and may even be able to start the Maryland game in 11 days. The difference in the game turned out to be an area that we have strong in all year - turnovers. Two freshmen ended up costing us on those, and it is hard to fault them. They are freshmen, after all, and we lost our FIRST fumble of the year on offense. Really.

But the kids played really, really hard. The coaches coached well, and Stinespring called maybe his best offensive game of the year. We knew Bud was going to call a masterful defensive game, and he delivered. We are still susceptible to the big play, but we limited a top 10 offensive team to 248 total yards. Not bad. For the most part the running backs ran, the receivers caught and the quarterbacks got them the ball. We are still a very young team, but thanks to the Cavaliers turnaround season, are still in great shape to win the division. If we win our next four games, we will be in Tampa in early December. A tough task to be sure, but what more can you ask of a super young team that is not short on effort or heart. I like this team. A lot.

I am not sure what I am going to predict from here on out. If UVA keeps winning, that game is going to be mighty interesting. Duke is winning on the road. Maryland is 6-2 and Miami is turning things around. My early thought is we win at least 3 of those, if not 4. This team grew up a lot yesterday and if Glennon stays healthy, I trust he can lead us to wins. Go Hokies!

ACC Weekend Pickoff

2008-10-24T07:34:00.003-04:00

From here on out the games are good, I mean REALLY good. This conference is turning out to be pretty darn competitive; did you know there are only TWO teams out of the twelve that are below .500? Not bad!

Boston College at North Carolina

There are very few offenses you can turn the ball over five times against that won't make you pay dearly. Unfortunately, UNC will. They are also hurting from their tough OT loss to UVa last week. My money is on Baby Blue.

UNC 27 BC 17

UVa at Georgia Tech

This one sets up very interesting. UVa has made a complete makeover of their team, but they have done it at home. Every Hokie fan needs to buck up and be a Cavalier fan this weekend; we are a half game behind Georgia Tech right now and need them to lose a few! Georgia Tech's triple option offense has been tough to stop and I am not sure if UVa is the team to do it. My heart says Cavs; my head says....

GT 17 UVa 13

Wake Forest at Miami (FL)

This could be the lowest scoring game of the year in the conference. Without Sam Swank, Wake Forest proved to have no offense last weekend in College Park, while Miami is still struggling to find its offensive identity. Both defenses are good. Who breaks serve?

Miami (FL) 16 Wake Forest 10

NC State at Maryland

Anyone who knows which Maryland team is going to show up this weekend put up your hands. No takers? I don't blame you. Maryland has gone 3-0 against ranked teams this year, but struggled mightily against the teams they should own. We'll see which one shows up.

Maryland 24 NC State 21

Duke at Vanderbilt

Think there might be some Mensa candidates attending this game? Sheesh! Duke started off strong but is starting to show its lack of depth and playmakers on the field and just can't consistently match up with the heavies in the conference. Would be nice to get this OOC win, but...

Vandy 24 Duke 17

VT at FSU

This is a really tough one to predict, let alone pick. Word on the street is coaches have been pulling all nighters this week, kids are spending hours in film study and the practices have been very intense. The attitudes are great too. Problem is, FSU is pretty good on defense, and that is where we are going to struggle. FSU starts 3 true freshmen on their Offensive Line. That's trouble. Bud Foster eats that for lunch. But can TT find open receivers? Will they catch the ball? Can we run the ball? I like a spirited effort from our guys to keep it close, but this season will come down to the final 4 games. If we lose tomorrow but win out and GT slips up just once (and they will), we will win the division.

FSU 24 VT 21

Let's go Bowling II....

2008-10-20T09:56:00.002-04:00

A lot can change in a week eh? Especially in the ACC, where almost everyone will be getting a new holiday location - at least till next week...

Congressional Bowl - Clemson (ACC #9)
Meineke Car Care - Boston College (ACC #5)
Champs Sports - North Carolina (ACC #4)
Emerald Bowl - Wake Forest (ACC #7)
Humanitarian Bowl - Virginia (ACC #8)
Music City Bowl - Maryland (ACC #6)
Chick-fil-A Bowl - Florida State (ACC #2)
Gator Bowl - Virginia Tech (ACC #3)
Orange Bowl - Georgia Tech (ACC #1)

Sunday Thoughts...

2008-10-19T14:48:00.004-04:00

Greetings Hokie fans everywhere,

I have been writing this blog for almost 6 weeks now and have found that it is always easier to sit down and write when things are going well. The positive attitude about wins, a sack here, a forced fumble there tends to make the keystrokes and words pour out just a smidgen easier. It's always tougher to talk about the losses. The missed opportunities. The offense.

I'll admit it. When Brett Warren took a pick 6 to the house in the first offensive series for Boston College, I was stoked. After all, it was just what our team needed to get going. On the road. Conference game. What better way to start then to not only stall their opening drive but also put them 7 points behind. One thing our defense has been able to do over the last 15 years is force opposing offenses into bad decisions, and we lead the country in interceptions since 2000. A startling statistic when you consider all the fantastic defenses in college football these days. And even with an anemic offense, an opportunistic defense that helps you with points and field position has always been one of VT's strengths.

But I digress. On the one hand, I am upset at the execution on offense, the major gaffes on special teams coverage. On the other hand, let's hold on here folks. Let's understand where we stand here. Have we forgotten all the youth on this team? The running backs? The receivers? The defense? Let's all cut ourselves a break here. After the ECU loss, NO ONE with a sane mind could of predicted we would have been 5-1 going into our bye week. So, do our expectations change? These kids are only 5 weeks older then they were when we predicted a rough season. So, they overachieved in those 5 weeks. Do we then expect them to go undefeated the rest of the way? Of course not. But perhaps it is how terrible the offense looked last night.

Do you realize if you take out Tyrod's 113 rushing yards, VT would have had 130 yards of offense on the day. Wow. There is no question that BC has a very physical defense, one of the best we will face. But that is downright awful. Yes, we are young. But the O line is not. Blame some of it on the playcalling. Really, a quarterback draw on 3rd down when you have no time left? Hmmm. But coaches don't miss blocks, miss tackles and drop passes.

So, where does VT go from here? Well, at FSU is no picnic. But, one thing Beamer and his coaches have been able to do in the past is rally the troops after a rough and tough loss. We'll see where we are next week.

One final thought for you. If I told you I just watched a football game and one team forced 5 turnovers - 2 of which were interceptions returned for touchdowns, AND blocked a field goal AND lost the game, would you have believed me.

Didn't think so. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes.

For all the criticism, it must also be said that no one has done more with less then Beamer this year. All of those losses to the NFL and we are still 5-2 and control our own destiny in the conference. Can Miami say that? Clemson?

Nope. My money is on Beamer rallying the troops and finishing out strong - 8-4 or 9-3.

Not bad for a young team, is it?

ACC Weekend Pickoff

2008-10-16T07:55:00.002-04:00

Is it really week the 7th game of the season ALREADY? We get into some very interesting matchups this weekend, with everyone in conference play. Let's get to it!

FSU at NC State (Thurs night)

Both teams have shown sparks of brilliance and the firework duds we see every Fourth of July. FSU has been downright terrible in Thursday night games, especially away from Doak Campbell. NC State showed some life in their last game where they took BC to the wire. Too much offense for the Noles in this one.

FSU 28 NC State 14

Wake Forest at Maryland

The two questions here are (1) did Maryland learn from their Charlottesville debacle and are they ready to rumble with emotion and execution and (2) can Wake Forest keep their momentum rolling? Wake is now in the driver's seat for the Atlantic division since they have already beaten league heavyweights FSU and Clemson. If they fail to get to the championship game it will be their own fault.

Wake 21 Maryland 14

UNC at UVA

This may turn out to be the most exciting conference game of the weekend. No, really. UVAs recent resurgence is nothing short of amazing, and if they can get past UNC, I will start to pay attention. UNC is coming off of 2 last second game changing moments where they have come out on the positive side. Their momentum should keep them going throughout the season, but the big question that is lingering is how will UNC do without Brandon Tate in the lineup for the rest of the year?

UNC 28 UVA 21

Miami at Duke

Miami needs a conference win. And bad. They are 0-2 so far to start the year and likely the hopes to make it to their first ever conference championship game went by the wayside when they lost back to back games to UNC and FSU. Duke would like to rebound from their bad loss at Georgia Tech. Duke could be 4-2 at the end of the weekend. Again, really.

Miami 24 Duke 14

Georgia Tech at Clemson

This game is hard to predict, because I can see a number of scenarios playing out. This is Clemson's first game without Tommy Bowden on the sidelines in almost 10 years. How will they respond? I can see them coming out fired up desperate to make a statement win. I can see them coming out confused and bewildered not knowing which way is up. Factor in Georgia Tech's triple option and you have a lot to consider.

Clemson 24 Georgia Tech 21

VT at BC

For those of you who can harken back to the Big East days, you will remember very few blowouts on either side of this matchup. It was almost always a physical, run down your throat kind of game with huge offensive lines, a slug fest that was always entertaining. Coach Jags has gotten away from that in favor of a more finesse offense. Until VT proves they cannot win on the road with this young team, you have to go with VT in a tight one. Also, Tyrod is quietly 9-0 as a starter. Betcha didn't know that??!?

VT 24 BC 17

Lions, Tigers and Bears, OH MY....

2008-10-13T13:04:00.002-04:00

....well, at least Tigers.

Clemson officially relieved Tommy Bowden of his duties this morning after starting a putrid 3-3 so far this year.

Clemson consistently recruits the best talent in the country yet can't ever seem to get over the hump to winning the conference crown or competing for a national championship. When you have that much talent on the field, there is but one excuse - coaching.

Bowden has been there 10 years now and the 4 times VT has played them, the lowest margin of victory has been VT +14.

Yikes Tommy.

Yikes.

Best of luck to you in your future career though; there will be no shortages of openings - I hear Tennessee, Auburn, Washington and Syracuse may be open, just to name a few.

Let's go Bowling...

2008-10-12T10:39:00.004-04:00

Ok, ok I know it's mid October and bowl games don't start until late December. But is it really ever too early to start thinking about the postseason? The ACC is now tied into 9 games. Each week I will predict which team tabs which bowl game.

Congressional Bowl - Maryland (ACC #9)
Meineke Car Care - North Carolina (ACC #5)
Champs Sports - Florida State (ACC #4)
Emerald Bowl - Boston College (ACC #7)
Humanitarian Bowl - Miami (Fl) (ACC #8)
Music City Bowl - Clemson (ACC #6)
Chick-fil-A Bowl - Wake Forest (ACC #2)
Gator Bowl - Georgia Tech (ACC #3)
Orange Bowl - Virginia Tech (ACC #1)

Looks like NC State, UVA and Duke are the only three who won't make holiday travel plans.

I reserve to change my predictions until Bowl Selection Sunday, naturally.

Lunch Pail

2008-10-10T07:32:00.003-04:00

Anybody who's anybody knows that "the lunch pail" is Bud Foster's calling card - a symbol of the blue collar, workmanlike mentality that typifies his defense.

Soon it will be featured on College Gameday.

For those of you who haven't seen the clever commercials promoting the premiere college football matchup pregame bonanza, they usually have Chris, Lee and Kirk doing something and asking "True or False."

The campaign’s new commercial spot “Virginia Tech Lunch Pail” will begin running Monday, Oct. 13 on ESPN, and features the GameDay crew eating lunch alongside a metal lunch pail decorated with the letters ‘VT'.

After Chris asks Kirk where he got the lunch pail and Kirk says he found it on the sideline at a game in Blacksburg, GameDay ask fans, “Virginia Tech keeps a lunch pail on the sideline at all home games. True or False?” Fans can then vote, see a video response with the correct answer and view additional content about that week’s big match-ups at www.collegegameday.com.

College GameDay Built by The Home Depot (Saturdays at 10 a.m. ET on ESPN) will originate from Dallas this Saturday, site of the Red River Shootout pitting undefeated No. 1 Oklahoma against Big 12 rival and unbeaten No. 5 Texas (televised on ABC at noon ET).

ACC Power Rankings

2008-10-05T09:06:00.003-04:00

As stated in my previous post, these standings look to change week to week.

ACC Standings

ATLANTIC
Wake Forest 1-0
Florida State 1-1
Boston College 1-1
Maryland 1-1
Clemson 1-1
NC State 0-2

COASTAL
Virginia Tech 2-0
Georgia Tech 4-1
North Carolina 1-1
Duke 1-1
Virginia 1-1
Miami (FL) 0-2

The Schizophrenic ACC

2008-10-05T08:57:00.002-04:00

Someone help me figure this conference out.

Really.

Let me make sure I have this right.

Wake Forest goes TO Tallahassee and beats FSU on their home field. At night.

Then proceeds to lose to Navy. At home.

Clemson, with all the preseason hype, a top 10 team no less, loses at home to Maryland.

Maryland then proceeds to go to UVA and get SHUT OUT 31-0. Keep in mind this was after beating TWO ranked teams. Cal and Clemson.

Also keep in mind this is the same UVA team that was destroyed at Connecticut and Duke.

Speaking of Connecticut, they got blanked at North Carolina last night.

Oh, and this is the same UNC team that lost at home to VT, then went to Miami and beat them.

And Miami is now 0-2 in conference after getting beaten at home 42-39 to FSU.

The Coastal Division winner looks to be VT if they can hold on and lose minimal games to BC, FSU and Miami.

The Atlantic? Who wants it less?

Maryland had it in the bag, then decided not to make the trip to Charlottesville.

If Wake Forest beats Clemson this coming Thursday night, it will be theirs to lose.

Virginia Tech might be the ONLY team doing what they were supposed to do and what they have been doing since they joined the ACC in 2004. Win conference games.

I know that you are supposed to beat each other up in conference games, but it seems all teams are doing is beating THEMSELVES up.

Who can figure this conference out?

Surely not me.

Thank goodness for bye weeks...

2008-10-05T08:37:00.003-04:00

I suppose we should all be grateful that yesterday's matchup with the Hilltoppers of Western Kentucky was not televised. You had to pay $5.95 on ACC Select, a premium service which allows you to watch conference matchups streaming on the internet. The 27-13 final may elicit some strong reactions from those of you who JUST saw the score and not the action.

"Wait, really? We only won by 2 touchdowns?"

"Did they really score 13 points on us?"

"Isn't this the same team that lost by more then 40 points a piece to Kentucky and Alabama?"

Yes. Yes. And yes.

Virginia Tech has clinging to a 10-3 lead late in the first half, when the offense started to spark a bit and we converted a 4th and goal into 6 points. Then, Macho had a 50 yard interception return which was almost a touchdown, but he was pushed out of bounds at the 5. We settled for a field goal since there were only 3 seconds left.

Adantage Hokies 20-3.

We got the ball to start the half and drove down the field for a touchdown. 27-3 Hokies. Now THAT is more like it, right. That is more like the score you would expect in this game. Put in your reserves. Get some valuable playing time. Walk out with a victory on Homecoming.

Someone forgot to tell Western Kentucky.

I should tell you that WKU opted to put in a wide receiver turned running back turned quarterback turned whatever into the game to take the direct snap and run the read option. For some reason, Bud's boys had some trouble defending it and they marched down the field for a field goal.

Then, down 27-6, they converted an onside kick. (Oh, I should mention this is after they had converted a fake punt in the first half. Special teams - advantage WKU).

WKU managed to score one more time, and then we took Tyrod out in favor of Sean Glennon, I guess to make sure he didn't get hurt.

So, a team that had not given up a sack all day gave up 5. FIVE sacks. I guess when Sean is in there, you know you can bring the heat because he sure isn't going to beat you with his legs. (Decision to burn Tyrod's redshirt - advantage BEAMER).

There are some positives to take out of this game.

Darren Evans continues to impress. He added two more touchdowns to his already impressive resume.

Macho Harris continues to return kicks well, read defenses well, and catch the ball for the defense well.

We are 5-1. Hard to argue with that record limping into the bye week

I guess that is really the issue. This was a game that came at a perfect time. It should have allowed us to work on the passing game, ironed out some of the wrinkles on offense, gotten the defense some more reps to work on pass coverage (their biggest weakness) and helped us to work on kickoffs and punt coverage.

The passing game wasn't terrible, but nothing to rave at against this defense.

Western Kentucky rarely threw the ball; instead, they gashed us on the ground play after play.

How we don't have someone who can kick the ball into the endzone is beyond me. Beamer instead has decided to kick it high and short giving the coverage team a chance to get downfield to make a play. Hmmm.

Lots of questions going into the bye week, but it does come at a great time. The team is 5-1 overall and 2-0 in conference. No one, including myself, would have predicted that after the loss to ECU and the lackluster performance against Furman.

The fact is teams have letdowns. After three close, gritty wins against good competition, it was expected.

And need I remind you VT football historians of a little game in 1998 against Temple.

It was at home.

It was a 5-0 squad against an 0-5 squad.

Oh yeah, and it was homecoming.

Thank goodness for bye weeks.

ACC Weekend Pickoff - Week 6

2008-10-02T07:12:00.003-04:00

The conference races are starting to clear up a little. Still lots of games to play, but some favorites are starting to emerge. No UVa, not you.

Duke at Georgia Tech

Who would have thought at the beginning of the season that Duke would be in SECOND place in the Coastal division? Not me. They captured their first conference win since 2004 last week against struggling UVa. Can they continue this week? Georgia Tech's high powered option attack is shredding good defenses, so I say no.

Georgia Tech 28 Duke 21

Maryland at Virginia

This is one of those classic games where Maryland, after topping yet another top 25 team on the road finds out what it is made of. They should waltz into Scott Stadium and destroy the helpless Cavs. But, UVa is wounded and in desperate need of a win. There are a couple of games on Virginia's schedule that I can see them winning, but only if they play smart, don't turn the ball over, and force good field position with their special teams and defense.

Maryland 17 UVa 14

Boston College at NC State

NC State had a great win against ECU 2 weeks ago and followed it up with a thud against USF last week. Not that playing 2 ranked teams in a row is an easy task. BC is struggling to hit their groove offensively. What will ex-head man Tom O'Brien have in store for BC?

BC 21 NC State 20

Clemson IDLE

Wake Forest IDLE

Florida State at Miami

This used to be the game of the year for both schools. I remember a time when most of these contests were decided by a field goal (Wide Right, Wide Left anyone?) Both teams are young, full of talent and promise, and needing to make a statement. Both defenses are good, while the offenses are struggling.

Miami 17 FSU 10

Western Kentucky at Virginia Tech

VT improved offensively last week in their big road win at Nebraska. Tyrod was able to find some wide open receivers, but missed a number of opportunities as well. There were 5 times that VT was inside the red zone, and for the most part had to settle for 3 each time. This week, they get a chance to iron out the wrinkles, play some backups on defense, and prepare for a much-deserved bye week before heading to Chestnut Hill to face BC in mid October.

VT 41 WKY 3

Road Warriors

2008-09-30T10:19:00.001-04:00

So everyone knows by now that Virginia Tech is crazy good on the road in the ACC. 16-1 since joining the league. That's bordering on ridiculous.

But check out what Voice of the Hokies Bill Roth had to say about the top 10 road wins in Virginia Tech history.

A good read.

ACC Power Rankings

2008-09-28T13:54:00.002-04:00

With the ACC, things can change from week to week, game to game.

Here is how things look as of today:

Atlantic

Wake Forest (1-0)
Maryland (1-0)
Florida State (0-1)
Clemson (1-1)
Boston College (0-1)
NC State (0-1)

Coastal

Virginia Tech (2-0)
UNC (1-1)
Miami (0-1)
GT (1-1)
Duke (1-0)
UVA (0-1)

Some questions remain:

Can Georgia Tech stir some things up in the Coastal?
Can Miami get to the VT game without another loss?
How will Maryland handle prosperity? Can they beat Wake and FSU?
VT is in the driver's seat in the Coastal. How will they finish?
Will UVA win another game? Their remaining schedule is brutal.

Back in the rankings again

2008-09-28T13:48:00.003-04:00

The pollsters are finally seeing the light.

Virginia Tech returned to a place where they have been more often then not; the top 25.

VT owns the 24th spot in the USA Today Coaches Poll and the 20th spot in the AP Top 25.

Clearly back to back to back wins over Georgia Tech, UNC and Nebraska have opened some eyes.

Let's hope the young guys can keep their goal of winning another ACC championship in their sights.

Things are looking good for such a young inexperienced team.

5 things I learned yesterday

2008-09-28T10:16:00.004-04:00

(1) That last year was no fluke.

Remember last year? When being ranked #2 in the country meant you were going to lose to an unranked club? Apparently the bug is back, but it clearly doesn't discriminate. Take a look at what happened this weekend:

#1 USC loses to unranked Oregon State
#3 Georgia loses to #8 Alabama badly
#4 Florida loses to unranked Ole Miss at home
#8 Wisconsin loses on the road to Michigan
#16 Wake Forest loses at home to unranked Navy
#23 ECU loses to Houston

Look, there were other losses between ranked teams, but this might take the cake for the most losses in one weekend to unranked teams. Just goes to show you that parity in college football is king and just because you are ranked doesn't mean you don't show up each and every week.

(2) That UVA is bad. REALLY bad. No disrespect to Duke, but if I was a touchdown road dog to Duke, I would have been mad and came out swinging. UVA looked lost, like they have given up and don't want to play, and it all starts with the head man. If he is still the head coach by spring ball next year, I will be floored.

(3) That VT is in the driver's seat in the Coastal Division race. We have beaten GT and UNC outright already, and Miami has one conference loss, to UNC. If we take care of business and win 2 of the 3 with BC, FSU and Miami, we should be golden.

(4) That discipline is paying off HUGE dividends for this young VT squad. Do you know that we have not yet lost a fumble? That we are averaging 4 penalties a game, while our last three opponents have extended game winning drives for us with COSTLY personal fouls? That is downright silly.

(5) That anyone who knows who is going to play for the national championship right now is out of their minds. It seems likely that the Big 12 and SEC champs will meet for it all in January, but with all the losses even in September, things are bound to get even more topsy-turvy.

Sunday Thoughts...

2008-09-28T10:00:00.002-04:00

If I would have told you that last night's match up between Virginia Tech and Nebraska would have been a shootout, an old fashioned "whoever has the ball last is likely going to win" slug fest, how many of you would have sworn off reading me for good?

Wow guys. Just, wow. Let's look at the good, the bad and the ugly from last night's gritty road win:

THE GOOD

- The offense is finally starting to click. For the most part, the play calling allowed Taylor to roll out, find someone open, or tuck the ball and run. Don't adjust your computer screens - but Tech had 377 yards of total offense last night. No, really. Tyrod had 177 yards of passing. Seriously. 21 first downs. Honestly. Granted, this was a porous Husker D they were facing, but progress is progress folks. And on the road no less.

THE BAD

- The final score should have been 47-30. We settled for THREE field goals inside the red zone. Now, had our offense not been able to move the ball as easily, clearly this would not have been such a concern, but when you have those kinds of opportunities to put a team away, you must take advantage. The pass to Greg Boone was a gorgeous play call, just overthrown. Beyond that, all of the blame goes to Billy Hite who calls the plays in the red zone. Just terrible. Reverses on third down? What? QB keeper at the 15? Huh? Come on Billy.

THE UGLY

- Not much, truly. The pass defense was pretty bad, giving up close to 200 yards through the air. The tackling, not much better. And rover Davon Morgan is out for the season with a torn ACL. Dorian Portch will be an adequate replacement as the two were neck and neck in preseason.

All in all, a great, tough, gritty road win in a venue that has been virtually impossible to come home with a win. The Huskers were 26-3 at night over the last 25 years. Make that 26-4.

Barring a complete meltdown next week at home vs. Western Kentucky, VT should be 5-1 (2-0) going into the bye week. Then comes the rough stretch with BC and FSU on the road. Not many predicted that VT would sweep GT, UNC and NEB all in a row after that Furman win. Kudos to Beamer who, regardless of how young and inexperienced his club is, always finds a way to coach them up, have them play physical, and never give up.

GO HOKIES!!

Peeking through the Crystal Ball...

2008-09-25T19:42:00.003-04:00

Another exciting weekend in store for the ACC, featuring some great conference games and two opportunities for the ACC to improve its steadily-improving 26-8 out of conference record:

Maryland at Clemson

A key showdown in the Atlantic division features a hot Maryland squad facing a Clemson team that isn't really sure where it is. Maryland always plays Clemson tough in Death Valley.

Clemson 28 Maryland 21

Virginia at Duke

Oh, Virginia. Will you win another game this year? With games against Georgia Tech, Wake Forest, Clemson, Miami, Virginia Tech and ECU on tap, I'm really not sure. Duke is a touchdown favorite (don't get out your glasses, you REALLY did just read that) against the Cavs and I think they get their first conference win in several years Saturday.

Duke 31 UVA 20

North Carolina at Miami

Rotating young quarterbacks against a resurgent Miami squad. Not a good recipe. UNC has a better defense then Texas A&M, and more offensive weapons. Will they show up after a deflating loss to VT the week before?

Miami 31 UNC 14

Wake Forest at Navy

Lots of offense. Lots of running. Lots of the option. Can you handle it?

Wake Forest 31 Navy 30

NC State at South Florida

HUGE win for NC State last weekend. Can they keep the vibes going against its 2nd ranked team in as many weeks?

USF 31 NCSU 21

Colorado at FSU

Yikes FSU. And I thought VT had offensive woes. The defense will keep them in every game this year, but 12 penalties and 7 turnovers? I'm not sure even USC could win under those cirumstances.

FSU 24 Colorado 21

Virginia Tech at Nebraska

Nebraska is 26-3 in night games over the last 20 years. 3 losses. Yikes. Tough place to play, but in fairness, VT has played on its share of large stages. The Huskers are still a team in search of an identity after going in the tank late last season. VT should have some chances down field in this one. Can the young Hokies steal another one on the road? Will there be a THIRD straight 20-17 game? Yes. But not a win.

Nebraska 20 VT 17

I couldn't have said it better myself....

2008-09-21T20:52:00.002-04:00

.....so I won't try.

Just read the below article. Some high praise from our next opponent.

Shows exactly why the grittiness of our current team coupled with Bud Foster and BeamerBall may lead to some unlikely wins this year.

Enjoy.

ACC Power Rankings

2008-09-21T13:00:00.003-04:00

Before I start, let's all pat the collective ACC on the back. 6-0 in out of conference games yesterday. No, it's not a typo. 6-0.

BC defeated UCF
NC State defeated 15 ECU
Maryland defeated Eastern Michigan
Clemson defeated South Carolina State
Georgia Tech defeated Mississippi State
Miami defeated Texas A&M

OK, so some of those don't exactly scream "respect me" but a win is a win, right?

Atlantic Division

Wake Forest (1-0)
Clemson (1-0)
Florida State (0-1)
Boston College (0-1)
Maryland (0-0)
NC State (0-1)

Coastal Division

Virginia Tech (2-0)
Miami (0-0)
UNC (0-1)
Georgia Tech (1-1)
Duke (0-0)
Virginia (0-0)

Mark this on your calendars guys. Thursday November 13th.

Virginia Tech visits Miami in what could decide the Coastal division crown.

Also, next Saturday Virginia visits Duke. This could decide the cellar dweller in the Coastal Division.

Sorry, Cavs. I'm picking Duke to win.

Sunday Thoughts...

2008-09-21T12:49:00.002-04:00

Greetings fellow Hokies. I have a lot going through my head right now, so instead of posting multiple blogs, I figured I would just write and see what happens. Lots to get through; hope this comes out somewhat intelligible. No promises.

Um, wow. I hope everyone out there understands just how improbable a comeback down 14 on the road against a strong North Carolina team is with the ineffective offense and youth on both sides of the ball. There are two other comebacks that come to mind that rival this one. 2004 at Georgia Tech when we were down multiple scores in the 4th quarter and ended up making that game look far less close then it really was and 1995 at UVA (probably the best come-from-behind win in VT history). These kinds of games are going to be commonplace this season I think; we don't yet have the offensive prowess to put teams away, but our defense is getting better every game and will continue to give us a chance to compete.

An open letter to Bud Foster.

How do you do it?

Seriously. How do you do it?

Sure, if this was last year's team and we were down 14 and we had to stop UNC from scoring another point in 20 minutes of game action, I would have expected you to work your patented magic to seal the game. But 7, count them SEVEN of eleven starters are gone from your vaunted defense from last season. You NEVER cease to amaze me how you can disguise pressure and force young, inexperienced quarterbacks to make mistakes (interceptions, sacks, intentional grounding in the endzone that isn't called a safety).

You are, simply put, a miracle worker and your kids are growing up real quick. Anyone watching game film from yesterday needs to think to next year and the year after and get REALLY scared. This defense is going to be a load this year but what about 2009 and 2010. Run for the hills opposing offenses. Better yet, don't bother. Bud will find you.

So, at Nebraska, huh. Tough duty. But as I pointed out earlier in the week, VT tends to play its best on the road. Lincoln at night is tough sledding. After yesterday though, I think we come to play. The offense FINALLY started to click a bit in the 2nd half. I HOPE that Stinespring understands that is because he finally started to open up the passing game and gave Tyrod a little more leeway and loosened the reigns a bit. We will need that next week for sure.

What a game.

Sounds like I should refill my ulcer medication for the rest of the season.

It's going to be one of those years.

ACC Pickoff

2008-09-19T08:46:00.005-04:00

Another week, another great set of matchups.

This week we have 2 stellar divisional matchups that may go a long way in determining who gets to Tampa for the ACCCG this year.

ECU at NC State

Oh dear. NC State desperately needs to win a good game, and the Pirates come calling. In total, ECU will play 3 ACC foes. VT, NC State and UVA. 3 for 3? You bet.

ECU 24 NC State 14

Eastern Michigan at Maryland

If there is anything we know for certain about Maryland, it is that they play up to their competition, and down to their competition. They looked solid toe to toe in their upset of then-ranked California last weekend. Can they keep the momentum rolling?

Maryland 28 Eastern Michigan 19

Central Florida at BC

BC just recently lost a starting defensive player for the season. They are coming off a bye week, but their offense is struggling. UCF has lots of firepower and BC is still reeling from it's home loss to Georgia Tech.

UCF 24 BC 17

Miami at Texas A&M

Miami's strength is its defense, and it will need the offense to catch up in its 2nd straight rough road venue. The 12th Man may not make much difference for A&M this week. They lost a tough opener to Arkansas State. Yikes.

Miami 24 A&M 14

Mississippi State at Georgia Tech

Talk about the irresistable force hitting the immovable object. MSUs rush defense is stellar while Paul Johnson's crew loves to pound the ball on the ground (don't we know it). Low scoring affair, to be sure. MSU is coming off a 3-2 loss to Auburn last weekend. Love those SEC scores.

Georgia Tech 17 MSU 10

UVA at BYE WEEK

UVA has lost so much this week, can they lose again?

Wake Forest at FSU

Now this one is gonna be fun. FSU has feasted on Southern Conference foes to open the season, so we really don't know how good they are. Wake will certainly provide a stiff test. The winner of this game has the inside track to Tampa.

FSU 31 WFU 24

VT at North Carolina

This one is tough to read, and I have been flip flopping all week. UNC LOVES the big play; they have more then 10 plays of 25 yards or more already this season. If Bud Foster can limit the big play and play "bend but don't break" defense, we have a good chance. If we can get some passing going, we will have a good chance. If we can win the turnover battle, we will have a good chance.

VT 24 UNC 17

GO HOKIES!!!

Statworthy

2008-09-19T08:46:00.002-04:00

Before everyone freaks out about tomorrow and how our team is young and the offense is struggling and UNC is on fire and....

Consider this.

Frank Beamer is 17-0 in conference road openers.

No, not conference home openers. Conference ROAD openers.

That is simply insanity.

Also, since joining the ACC, Virginia Tech is 16-1 in conference road games.

No, not conference home games. Conference ROAD games.

In fact, we have played better away from home then in our comfy noise box otherwise known as Lane Stadium.

16-1? On the road? Seriously?

It is going to take everything VT has to keep that record intact tomorrow.

The kids are young - we'll see what they are made of!

Carolina on my mind

2008-09-18T09:16:00.002-04:00

I remember growing up when you heard the word ACC you thought of Carolina.

Duke.
North Carolina State.
UNC.
Wake Forest.

Just not in football.

UNC is looking to change that perception with excellent recruiting classes, the hiring of former Miami coach Butch Davis, and building around a young but aggressive defense. They showed their youth in their first outing against McNeese State, but looked like a tested veteran club against struggling Rutgers last week.

The one blemish?

They were outgained in BOTH contests. VTs problem is that it can't outgain a turtle at this point.

Tyrod Taylor turns every play into a fighting chance and gives this club an opportunity to turn a 5 yard loss into a 31 yard gain (see FSU game from last year).

Butch Davis has publicly stated this week that the way to beat Virginia Tech is to force TT to throw. Get him out of his comfort zone. Don't let him escape the pocket. Make him play from behind and throw to win.

Considering the youth and inexperience we have at receiver, it's a solid plan.

What no ones seems willing to talk about is our deficiency on defense. No Bud Foster, I won't tell you where I live.

The pass defense really, really scares me this year. Yes, we have Macho Harris. Yes, we have Stefan Virgil. Two scary good corners.

But what about rover?

Safety?

Were it not for a penalty against Furman, we would have been beaten on a 60 yard play action strike. Were it not for the ball being a touch overthrown last week, Kam Chancellor would have been beaten for a sure touchdown and a likely loss.

T.J. Yates is not the best quarterback in the world, but his receivers are extremely athletic and very experienced. If our defensive line cannot get pressure on him and he has all day to sit in the pocket, we are going to get torched for big yards.

What does this game come down to?

If we play the way we did last week - establishing a running game, limiting turnovers and penalties, and getting pressure with our defense, I like our chances.

But if Butch Davis' vision comes true and Tyrod is forced to win the game with his arm, I think it's a loss.

This is a crucial Coastal Division game. Win this game and we have a 2-0 running start on our side.

My thought? The winner of this game finds themselves in Tampa in early December.

Nebraska Game Time Set

2008-09-15T13:16:00.002-04:00

Nothing like a night game in Lincoln, Nebraska kids.

National television exposure at night.

Nice.

Eddie Money

2008-09-15T12:44:00.003-04:00

Ok, forget the controversy, if you can.

Just for a second.

Eddie Royal, rookie receiver for the Denver Broncos is making a name for himself, and quickly.

For those of you that missed the fantastic finish in Denver last night, Denver was down to San Diego by 7 in the waning moments of the game. Thanks to a botched call which ruled Jay Cutler threw an incomplete pass instead of a fumble, the Broncos had new life. It was 4th and goal and who does Cutler toss it to? None other then #19 Eddie Royal.

Touchdown Broncos.

Does Coach go for the tying score to send the game to OT?

Nah.

He wants to go for 2 and win the game outright. Cutler connects with Eddie again for the win.

Royal is making a strong case for Rookie of the Year honors.

Sorry we couldn't use you effectively on offense at VT buddy. At least you are making it work at the next level.

Evans is the real deal

2008-09-15T08:01:00.001-04:00

There is no secret that VT is loaded with talented backs this year, 5 in all.

Talented true frosh Ryan Williams hasn't seen the field yet, and all early signs point to him redshirting if they haven't used him by Saturday.

If Kenny Lewis Jr. gets as many carries as he did last weekend, I will be sorely disappointed. Evans is clearly the better back, especially up the gut, breaking tackles all the way.

And how.

ACC Power Rankings

2008-09-14T11:56:00.003-04:00

IF the season ended today, this is how the divisions would line up:

Atlantic

Florida State (0-0)
Wake Forest (0-0)
Clemson (1-0)
Maryland (0-0)
Boston College (0-1)
NC State (0-1)

Coastal

Virginia Tech (1-0)
UNC (0-0)
Georgia Tech (1-1)
Miami (0-0)
Duke (0-0)
Virginia (0-0)

HUGE divisional matchups next weekend:

Wake Forest at FSU
VT at UNC

Could go a long way to determine the conference.

Carolina Game Time Set

2008-09-14T08:12:00.001-04:00

Due to both VT and UNC's victories this past weekend, game time has been set next Saturday for 3:30 on ABC.

WhoVA?

2008-09-13T22:49:00.002-04:00

My apologies to any of my readers who might be UVA fans.

Oh wait, this is a HOKIE BLOG!!!!

But seriously, Virginia. Come on. You go on the road to Connecticut and get whooped 45-10? Really?

My hat goes off to Randy Edsall. I have always loved this guy - he is a fierce recruiter and a fabulous coach. He led the Huskies to co-win the Big East last season with West Virginia. There has been a football program at Connecticut for only 6 years or so. My, how far they have come.

UVA, where do you go from here? You host #14 ECU. Uh oh. You host Clemson. Oops. You have to go to Virginia Tech and Georgia Tech. Yikes. There's always Duke. Wait, isn't Duke 2-1? Yep.

They have a week off before that matchup in Durham. And my money is on the Blue Devils. They played a great game today against Navy, besting them by 10 points.

Things could go south quick for the Cavaliers. Hopefully not TOO far south. I want Al Groh right where he is.

Tech Triumph!!!

2008-09-13T22:01:00.004-04:00

Well, talk about nailbiters!

If I have to see one more triple option play, I am going to get seasick trying to follow who the heck has the ball! Let's check out my previous list of things I wanted to see improvement on:

(1) Establish the line of scrimmage. Check.

(2) Run the ball better. Darren Evans, Tyrod Taylor? Check.

(3) Complete more then 5 passes and more then 68 passing yards. Yes, but barely.

(4) Win the special teams battle. Check. Keep an eye on John Graves. He has ALL THREE of the blocks we have had thus far.

(5) Give up less then 300 yards to GT. Sorry Bud.

(6) Create turnovers. Triple Check.

(7) Manage the game better with playcalling. Much better, yes.

(8) Play hard with emotion from snap to snap. Check.

(9) Don't turn the ball over. Check.

(10) Get better from week to week. Check.

Those paying close attention to how the game unfolded will be quick to point out we gave up a LOT of yards to Georgia Tech's run game. Fair enough. Also, our pass defense is not what it used to be either, and UNC could easily exploit that next week. Agreed. But what Bud Foster has been legendary for is in-game adjustments. No one will fault Bud for what he pulled off at the end of the game. When he had to force three and out and then fourth and out, he delivered. As usual.

We have a (1-0) lead in the Coastal division chase going into next week's crucial matchup with the Tarheels. Win next week? Driver's seat for the divisional race.

247 total yards of offense still won't jive with most Tech fans, but the improvement from week to week is there. Taylor gives us an option to turn a bad play into a better play, so he will always give us a chance to move the ball. If we can improve the passing game from week to week, I think we will be alright as the year progresses. But he will get flat out KILLED if we don't open up the passing game.

Heck, we could always be UVA trailing Connecticut 45-10 in the 4th.

Ouch Al. Ouch.

Pregaming

2008-09-13T09:55:00.004-04:00

Greetings from Hokieland.

Just like you, I am very interested to see what Virginia Tech team shows up today. I think we can all agree that VT going 11-1 is unlikely. 10-2? Possible. 9-3 or 8-4? Much more likely. Regardless of what happens today, I will be MUCH happier if the below happens:

(1) Establish the line of scrimmage. The offensive line has been less then imposing over the past two games. The line needs to create lanes for the running game and time for TT and SG in the passing game. Simply stated, the defensive line has gotten precious little penetration on opposing offenses. To defend the option, Bud Foster will tell you the first step is getting a push up front .

(2) Run the ball better.

(3) Complete more then 5 passes and more then 68 passing yards.

(4) Win the special teams battle.

(5) Give up less then 300 yards to GT.

(6) Create turnovers.

(7) Manage the game better with playcalling.

(8) Play hard with emotion from snap to snap.

(9) Don't turn the ball over.

(10) Get better from week to week.

No one is expecting VT to win the national championship this year, but the conference chase is still very much alive. What will make me happy is if the above is accomplished every week; getting better and better, playing hard.

It will pay dividends late in the season going into next year.

GO HOKIES!!!!

(8)

Jason from Arlington fast becoming a celebrity

2008-09-12T10:18:00.002-04:00

For those of you who haven't heard, Frank Beamer is mad this week.

Really mad.

On his weekly Hokie Hotline radio show, Jason from Arlington called in and asked a question a lot of were thinking but didn't have the gumption to voice:

“We talk about winning 10 games a year and winning ACC championships. But who are we kidding? We’re not going to achieve our goal of winning a national championship in football with the offense we’ve seen over the past seven years. I’m just thinking if we don’t make a change here … VT football’s hit the ceiling. You’ve brought us to a really good place, but in order to get to the next level, we’re going to have to get an offense to go with that defense.”

Beamer got very defensive, both on his show and in his weekly pressers, and in turn, his practices this week have been more hands-on, more intense, he is really lighting a fire under these guys. So, we can thank Jason from Arlington, who by the way, has his own blog.

Based on what I have been hearing, the added spunk and fire that Beamer is showing this week may pay dividends come Saturday.

So, after the game on Saturday, take a moment to thank Jason from Arlington.

He even made the ESPN halftime show last night.

Kudos Jason.

ACC vs the Big East

2008-09-12T08:11:00.005-04:00

My buddy Mike and I have been debating since the season started which of these two BCS conferences has gotten off to the roughest start. He was convinced the Big East was lagging, where I was sure the ACC had earned the honor. Until now.

The Big East is an alarming 3-8 against FBS teams so far this year. Um, that's atrocious. They are 1-5 when hosting FBS teams. That is downright awful.

Big East Losses To FBS Teams This Season and Margin of Loss

Rutgers to UNC 32
Cincinnati to Oklahoma 26
Louisville to Kentucky 25
West Virginia to East Carolina 21
Syracuse to Northwestern 20
Rutgers to Fresno St. 17
Syracuse to Akron 14
Pittsburgh to Bowling Green 10

To me, it's the margin of victory that jumps off the page. It's not just losing to out of conference foes but HOW they are losing and by how much. Maybe the beat writers will focus on the woes of the Big East now instead of constantly reminding us of Maryland and Middle Tennessee State or Alabama and Clemson.

Mike, you win this one.

Just this one....

Finally?

2008-09-11T21:15:00.001-04:00

I know it's only halftime, but UNC is leading Rutgers AT Rutgers 17-6 at the half.

Just to put this into perspective, UNC has not won outside the state of North Carolina since 2002.

YIKES!

Keep it up, Butch.

The ACC needs all the wins it can get.

Quality, or not.

ACC Pickoff

2008-09-11T07:33:00.005-04:00

Since we have a Thursday night game in ACC country this week, I will do my picks a day early. Off to the races we go...

North Carolina at Rutgers

This has an interesting storyline as Butch Davis was once Greg Schiano's boss down at Miami. Both teams have something to prove, but I think homefield in Jersey is too much

Rutgers 24 UNC 17

23 California at Maryland

If the ACC ever needed a marquee top 25 win, this would be it. Home field at Byrd Stadium isn't what it used to be and Cal has too many offensive weapons. Is this the year Fridge gets the boot?

Cal 27 Maryland 20

Navy at Duke

You may see some offense in this one folks. Expect a heavy dose of the option and the ground game from Navy, and Thaddeus Lewis of Duke continues to have good numbers through the air. Duke may win more then 3 games this year. Write it down.

Duke 31 Navy 28

Clemson at NC State

Um, this one could get ugly, and quick. NC State has struggled on the offensive side of the ball, though their defense could be better then advertised. It better be, against the likes of Spiller and Davis. Thunder and Lightning strike. Often.

Clemson 48 NC State 14

Georgia Tech at Virginia Tech

This is definitely the ACC game of the week, with two Coastal division hopefuls vying for position in their division. For those of you who haven't seen Navy or Air Force play before, welcome to the triple option. LOTS of ground game from GT and hopefully from Tyrod and company as well. This is why we love college football - grind it out for 4 quarters, knock the other opponent off the ball, smash mouth, run game. I am uncertain of this pick, but Beamer is MAD this week. Just ask any of his coaches or players. I think it makes the difference.

Virginia Tech 17 Georgia Tech 14

Tennessee-Chattanooga at FSU

FSU flexed it's offensive muscle last week against Western Carolina, and I don't expect this one to be any different. Expect heavy doses of Christian Ponder and Richardson under center with lots of throwing and running. Last chance for a tune up before Wake comes calling.

FSU 55 Chattanooga 3

Virginia at Connecticut

Randy Edsall has done a masterful job coaching and recruiting for UConn since he arrived and they have surprised some teams. They are solid all over, and Virginia has way too many question marks. This is the ACC's last chance for an OOC win of the weekend, but it's Virginia. Sorry.

UConn 38 UVA 17

Have fun watching the games and GO HOKIES!!!!

Anything you can do I can do better...

2008-09-10T13:00:00.001-04:00

....or worse.

Check out the latest conference blog war on ESPN.com

Pretty funny stuff.

We've got a couple ACC/Big East match-ups this week.

Can UNC and UVA seal the deal?

Find out later in the week when I make my picks....

A Royal Debut

2008-09-09T07:35:00.003-04:00

For those of you that have followed Hokie football, you know that Eddie Royal is one of Virginia Tech's favorite sons. He emerged on the scene as a true freshman in 2004, and his critical touchdown catches against Georgia Tech and Miami (both on the road) helped lead Tech to its first ACC crown. He was drafted by Denver this past spring in the fourth round, largely to beef up their return game.

But when Brandon Marshall was forced to sit out the first game for violating team policy, it gave Eddie a chance to flex his receiving muscles.

And flex them he did.

Last night, he harassed fellow Hokie standout DeAngelo Hall most of the night to the tune of 9 catches for 146 yards and a touchdown (he had another one, but it was called back on penalties). With VT's offensive woes, it is nice to see one of its more dangerous weapons having success on the next level.

And after every catch was Eddie's patented smile.

From ear to ear.

Orange Crush?

2008-09-08T20:53:00.002-04:00

So, on Frank Beamer's weekly Hokie Hotline show tonight, Beamer indicated that this coming Saturday is this year's "Orange Effect" where fans are urged to wear orange, which incidentally looks terrific on national television.

There has been a rumor that the team may be wearing orange too.

Does anyone remember the last time Tech wore orange?

They lost at home to Virginia in the early 1990s.

Yes, there was a time when Virginia beat us.

No, I didn't think we would ever field a team wearing them again.

Might want to wear your shades!!

Carolina Blues

2008-09-08T15:57:00.002-04:00

ESPN/ABC have exercised their 6 day option on both Georgia Tech/Mississippi State and UNC/Virginia Tech on Saturday, September 20th.

I guess they want to wait and see the results of the Rutgers/UNC and VT/GT games this weekend before they make up their minds.

My take?

The loser of the GT/VT game this weekend will play at noon on Raycom the following weekend. The winner gets the coveted 3:30 ABC time slot.

Out of conference MUST WINS

2008-09-08T10:39:00.004-04:00

Well, the weekend is over which means only one thing right? What ACC games do we have to look forward to this week? Well, for starters quite a few out of conference games which, if you have been paying attention since last week, the ACC sorely needs. There is one PAC 10 school and 2 Big East schools on tap, so the ACC has a great opportunity for some much-needed love:

Thursday, September 11

UNC at Rutgers (MUST WIN)

Saturday, September 13

Cal at Maryland (who are we kidding here?)
NC State at Clemson
Navy at Duke
Georgia Tech at Virginia Tech
Tennessee-Chattanooga at FSU
Virginia at Connecticut (MUST WIN)

Connecticut is vastly underrated and could give the Cavs fits. California is not underrated and WILL give Maryland fits. Duke is doing much better this year and should be able to compete with Navy.

Come on ACC. Don't be the Big East.

Tech Squared

2008-09-08T10:21:00.002-04:00

This coming weekend's matchup between Virginia Tech and Georgia Tech can be seen on ABC/ESPN at 3:30PM on Saturday, September 13th.

Fans of a passing game need not tune in. Triple option anyone?

ACC Standings - Updated Order of Finish

2008-09-07T11:34:00.000-04:00

Each Sunday, I will update how I think the conference will shake out on both sides come season's end. Obviously, some weeks certain teams will play better then others. Of course, most teams look pretty bad right now, so this is where I think things will stand as of today. Each team's conference record is in parentheses. The only conference game yet played is BC and GT from yesterday.

Atlantic

Florida State (0-0)
Wake Forest (0-0)
Clemson (0-0)
Boston College (0-1)
North Carolina State (0-0)
Maryland (0-0)

Coastal

Georgia Tech (1-0)
Miami (0-0)
North Carolina (0-0)
Virginia Tech (0-0)
Virginia (0-0)
Duke (0-0)

10 things I learned this weekend

2008-09-07T08:07:00.000-04:00

(1) The ACC is bad. OK, so we knew that last week, but this week was glaring. Virginia led Richmond at home 3-0 going into the fourth quarter. Maryland lost on the road to Middle Tennessee State. Who? Virginia Tech led Furman at the half 3-0 at home. Thank goodness for Wake Forest who had a game winning field goal at the end to defeat a low level SEC team.

(2) This 2 Quarterback system has got to go. You burned Tyrod's redshirt. Now use him. He cannot get into a rhythm if he is going in and out. He drives you down the field, you are at the 5 yard line, it's 3rd and short and you bring in Glennon? Really?

(3) ECU is for real. And thank goodness! Sure makes our close loss to them last week look a little better. They absolutely crushed West Virginia yesterday on both sides of the ball. Given their schedule, as long as they stay grounded, they should not only be able to compete for a C-USA title, but maybe break into the BCS discussion.

(4) Georgia Tech's option might work in the ACC. They proved that on the road at Boston College yesterday. Next up? The Hokies.

(5) The colossal USC/Ohio State game next weekend may not be so close after all. Ohio State struggled to put lowly MAC member Ohio away at home, and without Beannie Wells running, didn't have much. And all USC has done is had the week off. Uh oh.

(6) Duke WILL win a few more games this year. They almost pulled off an upset against Northwestern at home yesterday, and only lost by 4. They may catch a fellow ACC school napping.

(7) The top 5 teams in the country are scary good. Florida looked good dismantling Miami, Georgia was solid against a dangerous Central Michigan squad, Oklahoma was very impressive crushing a good Cincinnati team, and we all know about USC.

(8) Virginia Tech's bowl streak of 15 straight seasons may come to an end this year. No, really. If the Furman defensive line got through our offensive line, pressuring and sacking the quarterbacks all day long, what will the likes of Miami, Florida State and Boston College do?

(9) Jim Grobe is a fantastic coach. No one does more with less then Grobe. His players love him, and it shows. Here's hoping that Al Groh doesn't ever get the boot from UVA, because Grobe is a perfect fit for that program and I feel he could actually get them beating VT again. Shiver.

(10) I saved this one for last because this really, really upset me yesterday. For those of you who didn't see or hear about the end of the BYU/Washington game, let me set it up for you. Washington is down a touchdown late in the 4th. Jake Locker, the Wash QB runs it in for the tying TD, throws the ball in the air and celebrates with his teammates. The officials throw an unsportsmanlike flag, 15 yards. So the extra point is moved back. They kick it and it is blocked. BYU survives by one point on the road. No way ever, EVER should a subjective call from an official decide a football game. This new rule they have is ludicrous. This is college football, for goodness sakes! These are young guys who, just like the rest of us, LOVE the game. If he was strutting, doing backflips all while balancing an egg on his nose, fine. But he is ecstatic that they were able to score at the end and force overtime. The spirit of the rule was violated big. What a terrible way for the game to go down.

Downright offensive...

2008-09-06T17:48:00.000-04:00

Well, it is the second Saturday of the season, and Hokies everywhere are getting restless.

Again.

Bud Foster's defense showed marked improvement from last week's game against ECU where tackling was oddly absent. Coach Foster deserves about 10 free passes though; his unit has been as stout as they come for about 5 straight seasons. Even Coach Beamer's famous special teams took the week off last week. Can anyone say "Holtzball?"

The offense, however, has been downright awful under the tutelage of Brian Stinespring for several seasons now. Offensive stats in the hundreds won't get you too far.

Or does it?

Brian has been calling the offensive plays since 2000 and in 8 years, Virginia Tech has not finished above FIFTY in total offense. Now, it doesn't help that four big time receivers from last year's offense are now making a living on Sundays and Beamer is trying to break in some very young guys. Youth is one thing, but when your offensive line, which is supposed to be the heart of soul of your offense is struggling to open holes and the play calling is not tailoring to your strengths, tough questions must be asked.

Tech has been to a bowl game for 15 straight seasons which is utterly remarkable in today's game, where parity has become a norm more then an exception. But that streak is in serious jeopardy of being broken this year if VT can't get things together offensively. Only Florida and Michigan can claim to best that streak, and that's some pretty elite company.

Next week it gets no easier; you think Georgia Tech will allow VT to run at ease?

Think again.

The defense was MUCH improved today and that was a bright spot in today's game for sure. The tackling was much better, and the boys up front allowed precious little on the ground. I have no doubt that Bud's unit will continue to improve every week and continue to force turnovers.

But only 6 home games (one of which is already in the books) and road games at FSU, Miami, Boston College, Nebraska and North Carolina gives even the most hard core Hokie fan pause.

Virginia Tech is one of only two schools to win 10 regular season games over the last four years. USC is the other. Again, great company. Imagine if we had merely a halfway pedestrian offense to accompany Bud's bunch over the last 4 years. Frightening.

But that is child's play compared to the notion another season with these abysmal offensive statistics. Talk about frightening.

It's time for Frank to start making some very tough decisions. Fewer coaching staffs are as tight and loyal as his bunch.

It's clearly time for change.

Sorry Frank, but Bud can only do so much.

With the way Maryland looked today, maybe you can hire your buddy Ralph Friedgen as your new OC?