Three keys to the Hokies’ win over Georgia Tech

Virginia Tech is hoping for its third straight win against Georgia Tech this weekend and its third win in ACC play this season.

What are the three keys to the Hokies’ win against the Yellow Jackets?

1. Be prepared for either quarterback

So far, Georgia Tech has not named a starting quarterback for this weekend’s game, and both options have emerged as dual threats, a type of quarterback the Hokies have struggled with. The Hokies defense has had difficulty stopping dual-threat quarterbacks this season, as all of their losses came against players with those skills. Haynes King and Zach Pyron are both capable runners, each with over 100 rushing yards and multiple rushing touchdowns this season. It will be interesting to see how the Hokies plan to defend against either of them.

2. Reduce ball losses and execute football efficiently

Georgia Tech has proven to be a strong run-stopping team, allowing just 103.7 rushing yards per game this season. This is crucial for the Hokies, who prefer running the ball but struggle with ball security against certain teams. Georgia Tech will likely capitalize on mistakes as they average 30.4 points per game. When Virginia Tech falls behind, it becomes more difficult for them to stick to their usual game, forcing them to adopt a different style of play than they would like. The Hokies are currently averaging 209.3 rushing yards per game and running back Bhayshul Tuten is on a nine-game touchdown streak. If they start strong on both offense and defense, it shouldn’t be a problem to run the football the way they normally do, making victory more attainable – especially after Tuten put together a four-touchdown performance last week has.

3. Consistency across all quarters

The Hokies have struggled with consistency since the start of the season, which has already cost them three games. They tend to start strong in either the first quarter or first half, then struggle in the second half, or vice versa. This pattern is worrying, especially against stronger teams where such inconsistency could lead to defeat. Last week, for example, they led Boston College 28-0 at halftime, but then allowed 21 points before finally securing the win by scoring 14 straight points in the fourth quarter to finish 42-21. If this happens again this weekend, the result could be different, which wouldn’t be ideal against a team you’re expected to dominate.

Additional links:

Virginia Tech vs. Georgia Tech: Three players to watch in the Yellow Jackets’ offense

Virginia Tech Football: Three things the Hokies need to clear up before their matchup against Georgia Tech

Virginia Tech Football: Could Bhayshul Tuten catch Ashton Jeanty as the nation’s leading rusher?