Game Recap: Week Two vs Purdue

Hokie fans were packed in Lane Stadium for an early Noon gametime against Purdue. Enter sandman came during kickoff, which was odd to experience compared to the normal timing during the team's entrance. However, the fans were jumping and cheering just as loud, excited to see their team perform. Unfortunately, 5 minutes into the first quarter the loudspeaker announced that the game was delayed due to incoming storms. Fans cleared out of the stadium to be met with down-pouring rain that forced them to take shelter inside the football practice facility and Cassell Coliseum. The culture of Hokie Nation stayed strong throughout as the camaraderie and spirit of our school continued. 5 hours and 27 minutes later the game resumed with slight rain continuing throughout the contest as many Virginia Tech fans returned to support their team.

As the Hokies attempted to play through intermittent rain showers, it became obvious that the run game would be necessary for the success of the offense. Virginia Tech had problems all game moving the ball on the ground as they totaled only a mere 11 rushing yards throughout the contest. The passing game had its ups and downs, as we saw Grant Wells throw a solid ball on occasion. However, Wells showed once again his tendency to misread defenders and make ill-advised throws which lead him to throw 2 interceptions throughout the contest. This is a reality that Hokie fans have gotten used to over Wells' time as our Quarterback. He has shown flashes of arm talent that won him the starting job for two straight seasons. Unfortunately, his positive efforts get overshadowed by the poor reads and unforced interceptions that have plagued him during his time at Virginia Tech. Nearing the end of the fourth quarter with the game on the line, Coach Pry decided to put in the backup transfer Quarterback Kyron Drones. This came to the surprise of many Hokie fans as Drones hasn't seen the field more than a couple snaps. Drones showed confidence and drove the team down the field, however his efforts weren't enough to tie the game up late in the fourth as the Hokies lost 24-17.

Click below to see how the VT offense did in the video game recap from ACC Network.

A unfortunate loss for the Hokies came in the first quarter before the Rain Delay. Ali Jennings was involved in a tackle in which his legs got trapped under a defender, resulting in an ankle injury that kept him from the game for the rest of the day. There is a great deal of speculation on whether or not his ankle is broken, but Hokie fans are hoping for the best for Jennings. He is certainly an integral part of the offense and the team, therefore getting him back this season is crucial for success. Ali seemed to be the star of the game against ODU where he logged 72 yards and 2 touchdowns. We all hope the best for Ali going forward and hope to see him playing again soon.

There were some positives that came from the Purdue game, such as the defense's ability to hold Purdue as the Hokies mounted their 17 point comeback. A start emerged on offense as Tight End Daequan Wright totaled 77 yards on 4 catches, most of which he impressed with his ability to run after the catch. Stephen Gosnell showed promise as he entered the game following the loss of Ali Jennings, totaling 72 yards on 3 receptions. Lastly, Kyron Drones showed comfortability and talent that could earn him more playing time as the Hokies look to change up the offense going forward.

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