What to do with Virginia Tech?
58 comments so far
June 16, 2009 by
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For a game that ultimately has no bearing on any of the most immediate goals for this year’s Nebraska football team—in order, win the Big 12 North, win the Big 12, go to a BCS bowl—I’ve spent an inordinate amount of time thinking about that September 19th trip to Virginia Tech.
As Nebraska’s first big glossy nonconference road game since the unsatisfying “batten down the hatches” trip to USC in 2006, you can expect all of the television promos and mid-week prognostication afforded the increasingly rare meeting of two top programs. But national interest aside, this game is intriguing on a number of levels for the Husker affiliated.
On one hand, this is almost assuredly a better Tech team than the one that won in Lincoln last year. Regardless of the Huskers own improvements, that alone makes winning seem like an unlikely prospect. Another part of me--a hand, I suppose just to keep the clichés consistent—thinks there are a few reasons to believe that, as far as intersectional games go, the Hokies might represent the perfect match-up.
Take a look at the magazines, statsheets, and websites that collectively comprise “on paper” these days and you’ll see a lot to like about Virginia Tech. Bring back sixteen returning starters, 100 percent of your rushing yards, 90 percent of your receiving yards, an older and presumably wiser Tyrod Taylor and what is sure to be yet another stout defensive unit backed by that inimitable special teams unit that Frank Beamer coaches himself, and you have all the makings of a preseason top five team. And the experts agree, one consensus list has the Hokies at #5 the other #6. Should the Hokies start at either five or six in the AP or Coaches poll, it would mark the highest preseason rank in school history.
But the truly interesting thing about Tech and the polls is how appropriately they've been rated by the pundits. Over the last four years the Hokies have finished within two spots of their preseason rank in the final poll of the season every year. Over the past decade, Virginia Tech has started nine seasons ranked somewhere between 7 and 17 in either the AP or Coaches polls and finished within that range seven times. In '99 and '00, the final two years of the Michael Vick era, the Hokies finished higher than 7th twice and in 2004 they started as the 10th best team in the country and finished unranked. The next year they balanced things out by starting unranked but finishing 10th. The polls, particularly the middle of the polls, rarely shake the Hokies.
With all that in mind, now you have to choose a side. Are you feeling damn confident the Hokies are one of the five or six best teams in the country based on their consistent preseason to postseason poll performance, or are you feeling like they're destined to end up somewhere closer to the 8-15 range where they seemingly always find themselves at the end of the year?
For me, with all due respect to the talent Beamer returns and the Hokies' consistency during his tenure, I'm not buying Virginia Tech as a top five team because, in all but their best two seasons, they haven't quite been one. There's no shame in that. For the majority of Tom Osborne's tenure you could have called Nebraska a 3-13 program as that's where they almost always finished in the polls yet no one would've argued that the Cornhuskers weren't a national power. Consistency accounts for a lot and Virginia Tech's consistency over the past decade certainly ranks them among the nation's 10 or 12 best programs. But top five? That still feels largely like unchartered waters and, for Nebraska, that's a very good thing. Virginia Tech represents value.
Take a look at that larger consensus list again and ask yourself this: Of the top ten teams, where would you rank a trip to Blacksburg in terms of difficulty? Would you rather play OSU at the Horseshoe? LSU in Death Valley? Both teams will likely start the season ranked lower than Virginia Tech. Of the consensus top 10, only road games at Ole Miss and maybe Oklahoma State--owing largely to conference familiarity--seem less daunting. Again, the margin may be slim, but that's value too.
Make no mistake, going to Lane Stadium represents a steep challenge. The Hokies are 52-9 at home over the past nine years, nearly six percent better than Nebraska at Memorial Stadium. But I still can't shake the feeling that the Cornhuskers have a chance to claim a victory over a top five team on the road without truly facing a "top five team on the road" and it's about more than just Virginia Tech: no ACC team has finished in the top five of either poll since Florida State in 2000.
To do it Nebraska will surely have to play their best game of the short Bo Pelini era and probably play better than the Hokies played in their win in Lincoln last year. That's what happens when both teams are presumable better and the home and home flips. But there are some some things to like here. The Huskers are 10-4 all-time against current ACC members and the Hokies are only 34-38-1 against Top 25 teams, which Nebraska figures to be, under Beamer. There are some things not to like, namely that Nebraska hasn't won a road game against a Top 5 opponent since 1997 at Washington or any game against the Top 5 since Oklahoma in 2001.
And then there's the fact that Alabama could render all this top five business moot in week one with a victory over Virginia Tech in Atlanta, at which point the Hokies would probably fall to what I think is appropriately ranked. But this is the offseason and through that admittedly fragmented view, September 19 looks like yet another statement game for Nebraska. But in this case, the Huskers might be playing with a little bit of house money.
The Huskers could take a big step to get back to being a 3-13 program by beating a 7-17 program who has a decent chance to be ranked number five. Make sense? Don't worry about it. Let the pollsters sort it out on September 20th.
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Matt Jun 16 09
It makes sense. From perusing the V.Tech boards, I don't think the majority of V.Tech fans are on board with this squad being a Top 5 (or 10) team. Frankly, any placement of V.Tech in the Top 10 is going to be purely hype and marketing to benefit the aforementioned 'Bama matchup they have out of the gate IMO.
Having said that, it would be very nice (and very possible) to go in there and grab a win, even if they're only a Top-25 team at that point. Heck, if V.Tech chokes against 'Bama, then I would think the likelyhood of the good guys getting a win goes up a notch.
Paul Jun 16 09
After watching 'nama crush a highly rated
Clemson at the start of last season, I expect Saban's mercenaries, given a summer to prepare, will do the same to VT. ( I hope not).
So the top 5 ranking may be irrelevant. We beat VT because we can.
Bo is proving to be a relentless motivator and unusually gifted coach.
Dan Jun 16 09
A Hokie fan, but liked the article. Tech is in similar situation -- i.e., could lose to Bama and Nebraska, but still win ACC and Orange Bowl. Tech fans are just grateful we're playing Nebraska instead of Eastern/Western/Northern (pick your state). These are great match-ups for football fans. Last comment, my nephew went to game last year in Lincoln and all he could talk about was how friendly and gracious the Nebraska fans were. Hope we can display same behavior in Blacksburg.
David Jun 16 09
Hokie fan also. I definitely think we are a
top 10 team. Our season hinges on Tyrod. If
he stays healthy we have a good shot to win them all. As for Clemson vs Alabama last year,
we generally do the same thing to Clemson. I don't think Bama will roll VT like that.
Melvin Katz Jun 16 09
With all respect to the writer of the article and his not thinking that Virginia Tech is a top 5 program, he could be correct. That however has nothing to do with what happens on the field of play. It is on the field that the game will be won or lost for either side. One can not go back and use the records for a conference vs. other teams and also use the same rationale to judge how a team will do vs a current opponent based on past records from past years. It just does not make sense. that being said, I do believe that this will be a great game between two good football teams and the score will be closer than many think one way or the other.
Todd Jun 16 09
I believe you may be right. However, by the same token, if the Hokies exit September undefeated, they deserve to in the top 3 (or even top 2). Also, if the Hokies do beat Bama, why wouldn't they be a true top 5? Luckily, the Hokies get to prove it early (or end the hype early).
john stevens Jun 16 09
With all due respect to the author. Whether or not Virginia Tech is a top 5 team is irrelevant for Nebraska. Nebraska is a down team, attempting to rebuild with a new starting QB who has to go on the road and play in Lane Stadium against a Bud Foster defense. Nebraska is not a top 30 team. Considering VT already beat nebraska on their home field, I see Vt winning 24-10 regardless of VT being ranked 12th or 5th.
Brandon Jun 16 09
Thanks to the Hokie fans for stopping by. While I may think Virginia Tech is a tad over rated at #5 to start the season that doesn't change the fact that I have a ton of respect for your program and Frank Beamer. And the fans are good too. Every interaction I had with a Hokie fan at the game last year was an enjoyable one.
On to the game, I too think it will be tight. VT played seven games last year that ended up being decided by less than one score and I don't think this one will reach the 30s like last year. Nebraska should be better defensively but this year we'll be the ones inexperienced at WR and QB.
As for the final rankings, you guys do seem to have a clear path to the top five. Split the 'Bama/NU games (and further kudos for playing that nonconference schedule) and win the ACC and that seems like a Top 5 resume to me. Win them both and the sky is the limit.
VA Husker Jun 16 09
John Stevens sounds like all the Hokie fans, I know. Can't see past the Hokie goggles all the fans wear. How in the world is the Huskers a "down team" when they went from 5 win season to a 9 win season, last year? The Huskers are still not a national power, and rightly so. But a "down team"? C'mon! I have been to Lane Stadium and understand the power it has on a visiting team, but it and Bud Foster will not be the difference in this game.
Kent Jun 16 09
There is no "house money" for Neb as you will face a legit top 5 if VT beats 'bama and an appropiately, lower ranked VT otherwise. If you played us in game 1 and we were top 5 then there may or may not some "house money" on the table. VT is too thin at DE, too new and thin at LB, and has too much dropoff to 2nd string QB to be top 5; however, if VT beats 'bama and comes out healthy, Neb. will likely lose a hard fought contest in Lane.
HokieFan40 Jun 16 09
I thought the article was pretty well balanced and fair. I'm excited about the season and expect to get a win against the Huskers, but some big unknowns (think OL) need to come together for this to be a top-5 or top-10 year. We'll see.
Regardless, it's great to host a high-quality OOC opponent. Safe travels to all Huskers--we look forward to seeing you in the 'Burg!
Chris Jun 16 09
Husker, it's actually a compliment to the Nebraska program to say they are down after having a 9 win season. It's a tribute to the legacy of Nebraska football. Being a Hokie, I think we belong in the top 10, but I will have to see a lot more to think that we are a top 5 team right now. I do think we can be a top 5 team this year. The pieces are in place, but anything can happen.
Owen Jun 16 09
Honestly, I think Nebraska should be rooting for VT to beat Alabama. That way they might stand a better chance of sneaking up on the Hokies at home. Tech always plays tougher after a big defeat.
Hokie in Honolulu Jun 16 09
@Matt's perusal of the Hokie boards, I'm surprised that's your take on widespread Hokie opinion. I suspect it's veiled humility, or a case of not trying to get our hopes up; the truth is anything short of a BCS win would be somewhat disappointing to the Hokie Nation this year. Hopes and expectations for the Hokies are running very high. We believe that we are a top 6 team, and quite possibly could run for the title. We are looking to 'bama, but will not let a win or loss consume the rest of our season.
@VA Husker: there is no game in which Coach Foster doesn't make a difference, and certainly it's a RARE game at Lane at which the noise isn't a factor. I can remember maybe one in my lifetime, and that was the hurting that Ga Tech put on us two seasons ago. Your analysis is just...odd.
To the Huskers in general, Hokie Nation is happy to host you! You're a storied and proud program and a great group of fans. Should be a great game!
Tom Jun 16 09
I think your knowledge of VT football is reasonable. But you really don't appreciate the level of talent at Tech. The COACHES are saying tis is probably the most talent Tech team ever and THEY have high expectations for the team. But, they understand perfectly that the team must stay focused and take one game at a time. They have very good with this… Tyrod Taylor must stay healthy. Understand, too, that Lane Stadium (despite seating only 67K) is intimidating (I had an All-American kicker from Ohio State from the 1980s tell me that is as loud or louder than any he has been in — he was a guest of the Clemson staff for a game; he coached their kicker & knew the staff). Basically, your argument for beating Tech is that "this is VT after all, and they CAN'T be THAT good".
DoctorTug Jun 16 09
I, for one, would love to see the Huskers and Hokies play anually. I have no doubt it would become a very big rivalry!
JukesHokie Jun 16 09
Frank Beamer has been 'whacked' by Auburn, LSU,
Georgia and Tennessee out of the SEC. Also, Beamer teams never seem to be ready for the season openers; i.e. USC, N.C. State (a W), East Carolina, etc. A VT win over Bama would
surprise many, but don't hold your breath. SEC teams bring a different level of intensity to BIG GAMES, which the ACC cannot match; i.e., Alabama vs. Clemson in 2008.
However, Nebraska in B'burg is a different story. The Huskers will have their hands full
with VT mainly because the Hokies will have two games under their belts and a 'frenzied'
home field advantage.
For sure, Tech fans welcome all Husker fans to Lane Stadium for a great footall game !!!
Brandon Jun 16 09
Tom,
You're probably right. As an outsider I'm sure I don't have a totally accurate grasp on how much talent is there, but I would definitely list Lane Stadium as one of the ten toughest to play in right now. In fact, it's probably the hardest nonconference environment NU has had to play in since going to Penn State in '02 (i.e. harder than USC in the Coliseum in terms of atmosphere).
As for my argument, I'd say your summary of it is fairly accurate minus one semantic difference that probably reveals our respective loyalties. It's not that VT "can't" be that good. It's that, in general, they "haven't" been quite that good. Not far off, just a half step short of where they're looking to start this year.
Tim Jun 16 09
There is a mistake in this article. VT is ranked in top 10 in the final AP ranking in both 2004 and 2005.
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/rankingsindex?seasonYear=2004
Silverwolf Jun 16 09
Hey Huskers! Let's make a deal on the Va.Tech-Nebraska game. If we, the Hokies win, you send us a truck load of corn. If you win, we send you Brian Stinespring. Based on that kind of a deal you probably won't want to play your best game.
Brandon Jun 16 09
Tim,
Sorry about that. 2003 was the year VT started #10, finished unranked and 2004 was the year they went the opposite way.
T.L. Jun 16 09
Good article. As a Hokie fan I believe top 5 preseason ranking is too high -around 10 to 15 might be about right. Last year team was really young, had little real offense, squeeked out some close wins, yet had a strong defense, enough timely offense, and the coaching to win 10 games (5th consecutive yr), a conference championship and the OB in a "rebuilding" year. This year team has the POTENTIAL to be top 5 if offense improves significantly, and it was much better at the end of last year.
For the game, I think you underestimate the home field advantage of Lane stadium (as noted by many opposing players and coaches over the years). Also, Beamer's early years were poor, so don't be fooled by the overall record you quote - since 1995 he is 32-19 against top 25 opponents. I also think the Huskers 2 cream puff openers at home won't help them get ready. Should be a great game. We love any opponent the quality of Nebraska that will do a home and home.
ks.hokiefan Jun 16 09
I just want us(hokies) to have a great season.I do think that lane and Bud will cause a problem for NU. I feel this maybe our last year or so with a BF defense as he deserves a HC job.Bo has been great for you guys so far to date, but he has brought you a long way.And like all good things it will take time.Best Wishes for the season(except at lane,LOL).
ks.hokiefan Jun 16 09
I just want us(hokies) to have a great season.I do think that lane and Bud will cause a problem for NU. I feel this maybe our last year or so with a BF defense as he deserves a HC job.Bo has been great for you guys so far to date;however, he has brought you a long way.And like all good things it will take time.Best Wishes for the season(except at lane,LOL).
Brandon Jun 16 09
T.L.,
That's an interesting point: Why didn't LSU return the trip after you guys went there in 07? Is that coming up or did the Tigers just skip it?
KC Jun 16 09
Brandon,
LSU played in Blacksburg in 2002. I forget the details but we (VT) were supposed to go to Baton Rouge in 2004 but it ended up being delayed. We ended up playing eventual champ USC instead and finally traveled to LSU in '07
Jarred Jun 16 09
LSU already came to Lane in 02
They lost
JBLING22 Jun 16 09
I for one am extremely excited about the game verse Va Tech.. I love the type of football they play and love the demeanor they bring to the football field..I've got nothing but respect for the Hokies and look forward to a smash mouth football game.. I for one agree strongly with the Doc above.. I would love to see the NU vs VaTech Game year in a year out. As a Husker Fan its always good to see a school go out and do it the same we do it.. Show up, beat each other up, and then pick each other up after the game and shake hands...
I look at them as the East Coast Cornhuskers.
John Jun 16 09
FWIW, as a Hokie who's on the boards all the time, most would agree we're right around the top ten, almost all saying between 8-12. Why us losing to Bama gives you a better chance I have no idea, but to those of you who think Lane is no advantage, talk to any kid not a Hokie who's played there, and you will hear something VERY impressive, that I guarantee. Hokies by 13
T. L. Jun 17 09
Brandon,
As stated above, LSU played in Blacksburg in 2002. Tech won 26-8. Interestngly with the game against Alabama comng this year, Saban was the LSU coach that year, and went on to win the national championship at LSU in 2003.
Alaska Hokie Jun 17 09
Brandon, I know I've been overlooking the Nebraska game. Sure, it'll be a great game, but it's definitely been overshadowed by that Alabama opener, and I'm also looking forward to the "Battle of the Techs" GT/VT in the de facto ACC Championship Game.
I don't know why, but it feels to me as if everyone in this neck of the woods is overlooking the game. Last year, it was the big nonconference showdown. This year, it's definitely been overshadowed in Tech territory by the Alabama game.
Incidentally, I'm perpetually surprised by the number of Nebraska fans here in Alaska.
Hokie1 Jun 17 09
I'm sure not overlooking the Nebraska game, in fact, that will be the toughest home ticket to find this season. The focus is on our opener of course, a huge national game against Bama but the second that game ends, the focus will be on the Big Red coming to Blacksburg. You'll be treated very well, it will be a slugfest and we would gladly take a "W" over the Huskers. We know Bo and the boys will be well prepared and so will we. A lot of discussion about Lane Stadium on this board and believe me, we'll be bringing it. We also enjoyed our time in Lincoln last fall, thank you for the hospitality and I wish we could continue this match up down the road. Go Hokies!!!
Brandon Jun 17 09
Alaska Hokie,
I think it would be pretty tough to fixate on Nebraska (at home no less) when you know you've got Alabama in week one who will carrier significantly more weight into the '09 season than the Huskers will. Also, there's the matter of conference pride and the fact that 'Bama crushed last year's ACC preseason pick so I'm sure that weighs heavy too.
VTbymarriage Jun 17 09
A few more thoughts from another Hokie fan. Loved the article - at this time of year anything on college football is welcome! I SO love the home and home w/ Nebraska. Wish we had more in the future. Great program and great fans. VT has come a long way from the 1996 Orange Bowl when they were the new kids on the block, fans were amazed to see their team in a bowl game against a power like the Cornhuskers, and Nebraska's greater depth just steamrolled them in the 4th quarter.
I too think the Hokies are slightly overrated at #5. I'd put them somewhere between 8 and 12 to start the year. If we beat Bama, Marshall, Nebraska and Miami in September then we'll deserve a top 5 rank. As pointed out, Bama could put a bit of a damper on our September 19 matchup. Hope that doesn't happen. If VT beats Bama the hype for our game w/ you guys will be out of sight. Regardless though, the Lane Stadium crowd will be rocking for the Huskers. Smaller venue than yours, but the construction of the stadium (near vertical E, W, and S stands) traps the noise and makes it deafening when the crowd is into it. Those of you who visit will enjoy the atmosphere and I hope you receive hospitable treatment.
On the game itself, Suh could be a nightmare for VT. He was last year. But if VT has Tyrod Taylor healthy for the game I like VT's chances vs. the Huskers with a new starting QB on the road in a hostile environment. VT's passing game was really hampered last year by having all freshmen at WR. But this year that baptism by fire will pay off - by the end of '08 they were playing much better and the passing game looked good this spring. Also, Tyrod was a true sophomore last year. He could always run but the light is coming on for him in the passing game now that he's in his 3rd year in the program and getting all the starter's reps in practice rather than splitting them 50-50 with Glennon. I expect a typically stout defense, improved offense and home field advantage to be enough to lift VT to the win. But I'm not overconfident - you guys could very well come into town and smack us in the mouth, too.
Brandon (as well) Jun 17 09
I truly believe the key to this game is going to be the games played before this one. NU has two cupcakes and VT will be battle tested.... Also, with a little luck this will be an 8pm kick-off on ABC or ESPN. Not sure if this has been determined yet but you will be in for a real treat if this is a night game at Lane Stadium!!!!! Google Enter Sandman at Lane Stadium and see what I mean.
RWC Jun 17 09
Regarding the top 5 ranking, most hokies will tell you they wish we were ranked a little lower. Historically Tech plays their best ball in the underdog role. However, non-Hokies should be aware that this is a very, very dangerous team. We're just a little wary of the high ranking, the big opener, and the slippery slope that accompanies a loss in atl.
I'm looking forward to a great game in Blacksburg this year. Safe travels to all Huskers coming to town. We've got our work cut out for us in attempting to return the hospitality shown in Lincoln. Hopefully the impending husker loss won't sour your impression of my beloved program ;)
Let's Go Hokies!
John Jun 17 09
The great thing about this time of the year is the hope and expectations of everyone are high. Nebraska is definitely on the way back to where you want to be. Pellini is a good coach. We Hokies hope/believe we have a good team this year and will know for sure by the end of September when we will have played Alabama, Marshall, Nebraska and Miami. As for every team, a lot has to go right. No injuries to key or irrplaceable players; young players stepping up and having the "light come on"; team chemistry and focus being right, etc. College Football is the best sport by far and I cannot wait. REALLY looking forward so seeing you Huskers in Blacksburg and showing you some Virginia Tech hospitality at my tailgate. Travel safe!!
Joe Jun 17 09
Brandon (as well)... The NU@VT gametime has already been set for 3:30PM on ABC. No night game in Lane :(
bnahusker Jun 17 09
First of all, I'd like to say what a pleasure it is to have all of the classy VT fans posting here. I love getting an honest slant from opposing fans.
The NU/VT game could end up being an Instant Classic for the "World Wide Leader" as both teams are looking to reach greater goals. Our strengths look to be on the field at the same time when Tech has possesion and our questions facing each other when the Huskers have the ball. As is custom, watch the special teams play and expect the unexpected.
80 days till Husker Kickoff!
GBR!
Bob
Jason Jun 17 09
Thanks to the VT and NU fans for an insightful and thoughtful discussion. That's not always the case when fans from opposing teams meet on discussion boards.
Also FYI, there's another thread about this story on a VT site over here.
Hokie1 Jun 17 09
One more comment which will be bitter/sweet regarding Husker fans. We traveled to Lincoln last fall and following the game, we were in line to cross the bridge (we passed thousands of Huskers) to return to our rental and our 16 year old daughter leaned over and whispered in my ear "Dad, these fans don't seem to mind too much that they just got beat". I leaned over and whispered in her ear "Oh honey, these fans care very, very much. They just have a lot of class". True story. Nebraska fans are the most courteous and knowledgeable fans in college football. Period. Go Hokies.
HuskerHeat Jun 17 09
What is meant by this part of the article?
"Of the consensus top 10, only road games at Ole Miss and maybe Oklahoma State--owing largely to conference familiarity--seem less daunting."
darren Jun 17 09
HuskerHeat - I believe Brandon is refering to the two other teams likely in the top 10 - Ole Miss and OSU - as the only places that might be less intimidating place to play than VT. Of course, there are a few dozen Hokie fans visiting this site who would likely disagree.
I know this - I am very much looking forward to it. I enjoyed meeting Hokie fans last year. Quality folks. And, I hope the environment is great. I would like a different outcome, of course.
And, frankly, about that game last year. I re-watched it more than a few times (cause I have a sickness...) and, honestly, NU played like absolute crap for about 3 quarters. Very poor execution, on both sides of the ball. We were just never playing with *confidence* early in games last year.
So, for this season, I honestly just hope that the Huskers PLAY better. They do that, and we'll take our chances with anyone.
Brandon Jun 17 09
HuskerHeat:
Meaning, if you were to theoretically assess the difficulty of playing any of the "consensus" top ten teams from the link, I would think playing VT at home is harder than playing either Ole Miss or Ok. State at home, but slightly less difficult than facing LSU, 'Bama, Ohio State, USC, Oklahoma, Texas or Florida.
IndianLarry Jun 17 09
wow ... what crystal balls are out there ... guess two hard working programs over the years that do better or worse then predictions ... who really knows except the character of the schools and the student athletes who play the game ... I say the teams will go all out ... last year as a matter of fact VA Tech won ... but after a disappointing season years back Nebraska beat Va Tech in Orange Bowl ... but the athletes were just in grade school then ... it is great to have the opportunity to watch this game on television ... hope it is a nail biter and all the student athletes and coaches learn even more ... two fine programs and coaching traditions. Thanks.
JoshH Jun 17 09
This is to Brandon(as well) tons of respect for the VT program and every single one of their fans ,but Google the Husker Tunnel walk and then lets see how your 70000 compare with our 85000+
Leighton Jun 18 09
One thing about last years game is that both teams were still trying to establish their identity (VT with it's qb and nebraska mostly with it's offense). Remember the NU coaches said they sat down after the Missouri game and came up with a new offensive gameplan/philosophy switching from attempting to force the run to play keep away to more of a short pass keep away...
We'll see if Nebraska can get something working for the VT game.
VTbymarriage Jun 18 09
JoshH, it would be naive bordering on ridiculous for VT fans to suggest that NU is unfamiliar with a big time football atmosphere or that they'll curl up in a ball when they see VT's team entrance. That's just silly. But visiting fans, players, coaches and TV analysts consistently say that Lane Stadium is one of the loudest venues, if not the loudest, that they've ever been in. That's not just due to crowd size. There are plenty of bigger stadiums. But the acoustics of the stadium construction hold the noise in, as the stands are almost right on top of the field and go up very steeply. It's not a bowl shaped stadium that lets the noise out. Combine those acoustics with a rowdy and passionate fan base that knows when to be loud, and it can be pretty intense and can cause some problems for the opposing team - especially for inexperienced QB's. As for the team entrance, there are lots of great ones in college football. Each fan base is partial to its own. All I'll say is that IMO VT's can hold its own with anyone for sheer spectacle and intensity. Several of the ESPN analysts have commented that the Enter Sandman team entrance at VT is their favorite. But to each his own. And when its all said and done, what matters is how the players execute on the field.
Scott Jun 20 09
Great talk of football here gents.. I see that VT fans and NU fans share much in chemistry.
Mostly this being in the form of repectful and educated discussion, and not a bunch of useless smack, or trolling.
Many other programs' fans could learn a thing or two by reading here.
Try a Colorado, Kansas, or esp. Mizzou blog and it is just plain STUPID.
Ignorant, pompous, and arrogance abound.
Thanks for the good reading, and look forward to a great game!
Hokieyates Jun 30 09
VT can be a top 5 team but they need a offensive cordinator. I hate to beat a dead horse but that is what is killing us today. ALso keep in mind Saban has a history with VT. Years ago Saban brought LSU to Blacksburg and got beat by an upstart crew. It was Saban's first nonconference loss in years and a big blow to him. Saban will not forget this come 9-5. So I know VT will play great defense 9-5 but depending on what the offense does will define that game. As for the Nebraska game, I think this is the best game on the schedule. You guys have a great team and will challenge VT so irregardless of talent levels. I think this game will be one for the ages.
Hokieyates Jun 30 09
VT can be a top 5 team but they need a offensive cordinator. I hate to beat a dead horse but that is what is killing us today. ALso keep in mind Saban has a history with VT. Years ago Saban brought LSU to Blacksburg and got beat by an upstart crew. It was Saban's first nonconference loss in years and a big blow to him. Saban will not forget this come 9-5. So I know VT will play great defense 9-5 but depending on what the offense does will define that game. As for the Nebraska game, I think this is the best game on the schedule. You guys have a great team and will challenge VT so irregardless of talent levels. I think this game will be one for the ages.
Hokieyates Jun 30 09
VT can be a top 5 team but they need a offensive cordinator. I hate to beat a dead horse but that is what is killing us today. ALso keep in mind Saban has a history with VT. Years ago Saban brought LSU to Blacksburg and got beat by an upstart crew. It was Saban's first nonconference loss in years and a big blow to him. Saban will not forget this come 9-5. So I know VT will play great defense 9-5 but depending on what the offense does will define that game. As for the Nebraska game, I think this is the best game on the schedule. You guys have a great team and will challenge VT so irregardless of talent levels. I think this game will be one for the ages.
Dave Jul 04 09
As a Va Tech fan who much prefers thoughtful discussion over ignorance, I enjoyed both the article and the following comments. I'm a bit concerned about VT being ranked in the top-5 simply because they're still a young team. However, I'm impressed with the talent, character, and team-orientation of the current players. Our offense should be much-improved at all levels and the defense should be what it normally is. This is the ONE game that I've made plans to attend this year. I've heard nothing but positive things about how the Hokie fans were treated at Memorial stadium last year and I certainly hope that Husker fans are treated with similar kindness/respect. I look forward to a great game - and thanks for a great article, Brandon!
Joe Jul 05 09
Very nice article. My wife's father is a Husker so this game will be a special match up for us.
I have been watching the Hokies play since the 1980s and have followed the recruiting closely over the years. VT doesn't get the props it deserves. They are routinely under rated. I think this team has the overall team talent and depth to compete in the top 10, no doubt. One thing that I have noticed over the years that has had a significant influence on the team is senior leadership. Last years team had Macho Harris, Orion Martin, Brett Warren, and Ryan Shuman. All of these players were very solid individuals. We will see if this years seniors have similar leadership skills. In the few years where we finished poorly, it was the leadership and team chemistry not the talent that lead to our demise. I expect a few relatively unknown players will burst on to the national spotlight in that first game, win or lose.
Angie Rouse Aug 19 09
I'm not sure this is the right forum, but maybe you can point me in the right direction: I'm taking my boyfriend (a HUGE NEBRASKA fan) to the Nebraska game at VA Tech Sept. 19 and am wondering how to hook-up with Nebraska tailgaters? Can anyone out there help? Thanks so much!!
Brandon Aug 19 09
Angie,
It won't be hard. Just find the people in red and go up and introduce yourself. You will be welcomed, I guarantee it.
Otherwise, it looks like Champs Sports Bar in Blacksburg is the base of operations during football season for the Southwest Virginians for Nebraska group. I imagine they'll be out in full force for this one prior to the game.
It might be worth contacting them as well. You can find the contact info on this page. Just click the pushpin on the map of Virginia.
John Parker Sep 14 09
I attended the game last year, and what I noticed was 2 teams on the verge of being powerhouses!! Nebraska has struggled in the Callahan era, and for a Husker fan it was horrible to witness. Under Pelini, confidence is being restored, and execution, although not near what the 90's team did, is showing promise. Virginia Tech, was the better team last year, and they deserved the win, I must give them that. But, this is not the same Nebraska team!! Confidence is growing in Lincoln, and about to be unleashed!!
This promises to be a great game, and is VERY meaningful to both programs.
I was privileged to speak with some Hokie fans, and noticed that although the game last year was back and forth, they were very respectful. Husker fans pride themselves with being the best fans in college football, and it was a priviledge to have Virginia Tech in Lincoln last year.
The Storm is on the horizon...Go Big Red!!!
Hokie Sep 25 09
Nebraska lost.