In their first ACC matchups, the Virginia Tech football team has shown some of its strongest play this season, securing one win in three games against Miami, Stanford, and Boston College. The fourth game, against Georgia Tech, was a bit rough at times, but they managed to secure a 21-6 victory over the Yellow Jackets, bringing their record to 5-3. Now, they’re anxiously awaiting injury updates on running back Bhayshul Tuten and offensive lineman Xavier Chaplin. Here are two truths and a lie from their recent win over Georgia Tech.
Truth: Virginia Tech’s running is in trouble if Tuten is out
Based on Tuten’s reaction, his injury seemed quite painful, with the medical staff focusing on his ankle. Although the specifics remain uncertain, any absence from Tuten would significantly impact the Hokies’ running game.
With P.J. Prioleau already sidelined since his October 5 injury against Stanford, Virginia Tech is down to Malachi Thomas and Jeremiah Coney as the primary options in the backfield. Relying too heavily on quarterback Kyron Drones for carries wouldn’t be a sustainable strategy for success.
Truth: Virginia Tech’e defense was dominant in the second half
In the first half, the Hokies’ defense gave up some yardage but ultimately held strong, limiting the Yellow Jackets to just two field goals. In the second half, they allowed Georgia Tech to move the ball deep a few times, but came up with crucial plays when needed.
In the final 30 minutes, Virginia Tech forced three turnovers on downs, three punts, and grabbed two interceptions. Kenota Jenkins made a critical stop on a 4th-and-1, and Keli Lawson’s third-quarter interception set up the Hokies’ third touchdown of the game.
Lie: Virginia Tech has an easy path to becoming bowl-eligible
Losing Tuten for any length of time could be a real setback, but the win over Georgia Tech was crucial for Virginia Tech, especially as it moves them closer to bowl eligibility. Next weekend, they’ll travel to New York to face a 5-2 Syracuse team that’s coming off a lopsided loss to Pittsburgh on Thursday night.
After that, they’ll host Clemson in two weeks—a challenging matchup—followed by a bye. They’ll then face Duke on the road the Saturday before Thanksgiving, another tough test, with a home game against Virginia on Thanksgiving Weekend possibly presenting their best opportunity on paper. Time will tell how it unfolds.
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