Let’s take a look at the Hokies national defensive statistical rankings right now (all statistics come from the NCAA’s FBS stats site):
|
Defense Category |
National FBS Statistical Ranking |
|
Pass Efficiency Defense |
#1 |
|
Third Down Percentage Defense |
#2 |
|
Number of Passing Yards Allowed |
#2 |
|
Total Defense |
#3 |
|
Fourth Down Percentage Defense |
#4 |
|
Scoring Defense |
#10 |
|
Punt Return Defense |
#15 |
|
Rushing Defense |
#17 |
|
Red Zone Defense |
#19 |
The Hokies are also making plays on special teams with 2 blocked kicks and 1 blocked punt.
On offense, the Hokies have a top 50 red zone offense, are top 15 in time of possession, and have a top 50 rushing offense. Again, as Jeff previously stated, the Hokies are looking like the teams we saw in 2004 and 2005 with a tough as nails defense – and an offense that can run the ball when it needs to.
The Hokies have the look of a team that can make a deep run in the ACC Coastal Division – but have a major roadblock – and it’s not one you would generally think of, unless you’re long time Virginia Tech fan.
Since 2004, here is Virginia Tech’s record vs. ACC Coastal Division Teams:
|
ACC Coastal Team |
Win/Loss Record |
|
Virginia |
12-0 |
|
North Carolina |
10-3 |
|
Duke |
10-2 |
|
Georgia Tech |
9-3 |
|
Miami |
7-5 |
|
Pittsburgh |
1-3 |
And folks, if we go back to the Big East days – back to 1996, Virginia Tech is 5-7 in its last 12 games vs. Pittsburgh.
Virginia Tech has not won on the road at Pittsburgh in ACC play – and to extend that further, has not won at Pittsburgh since 1999.
That is a big dry spell if you’re a Hokie fan. Many Hokie fans seem to think that Heinz Field – and other trips to Pittsburgh are haunted. To a degree, there is some truth to this.
In order to show progress as a program, Virginia Tech must win at Pittsburgh this year. This is a must win for a team that has been owned by Pittsburgh in the last twelve games – and in ACC play.
And here’s the thing about that – I think Virginia Tech is better than Pittsburgh this year. Will it happen? Can’t wait to find out.
