1. The Hokies’ offense worked.
Virginia Tech’s offense once again lagged, failing to score in the first quarter and struggling with third-down efficiency. However, after a slow start, the team regained momentum both on the ground and through the air, with quarterback Kyron Drones and tight end Benji Gosnell each scoring a touchdown. Most of the offensive plays were set up by the defense providing good field position, but unlike previous games, the offense was efficient enough to close out games.
2. The Hokie defense was able to make stops when needed.
The Hokies’ defense started with a “bend but don’t bend” mentality, which was evident early on as they held Georgia Tech to just two field goals and allowed just six points in the first half. The defense forced five consecutive incomplete passes from Georgia Tech quarterback Zach Pyron and held top receiver Malik Rutherford in check, holding him to just five receptions of less than 50 yards. Additionally, the Hokie defense held Georgia Tech scoreless throughout the second half and had two interceptions.
3. Kyron Drones played well.
The Kyron Drones were effective today, completing 60% of their passes. He also scored a receiving touchdown on the famous “Philly Special” play and threw a touchdown pass to tight end Benji Gosnell. Additionally, Drones rushed for a touchdown late in the third quarter, setting up the score on a run-pass option pass to Stephen Gosnell.
4. 3rd down was a big problem on offense.
In this game, the Hokies struggled to be efficient on third down, converting less than 30% of their third down attempts. On the season, they were completing 43% of their third-down attempts, but today they also struggled in the run game and couldn’t get it going.
5. Beishul Tuten’s touchdown streak has come to an end.
In this game, Beischur Tuten struggled against the Yellow Jackets’ defense, failing to score a touchdown for the first time in nine games. It’s the third time this season that Tuten has been held to fewer than 100 rushing yards, the first coming two weeks ago against Stanford, where he had just 73 yards on the ground.
Additional links:
Virginia Tech Football: 3 keys to victory for Hokies vs. Georgia Tech
Virginia Tech Football: Hokies announce uniform combination for matchup against Georgia Tech
Virginia Tech Football: Beishul Tuten named Walter Camp National FBS Player of the Week