Story of the Stat Line: Rutgers vs Virginia Tech
Hokies Late Comeback Falls Short Against Rutgers
Former Big East rivals faced off Saturday afternoon, as Rutgers came to Blacksburg burdened by a winless history at Lane Stadium (0-6). For Virginia Tech, this matchup provided an opportunity to bounce back from last season's 35-16 loss in Piscataway.
The Hokies played identical football seen in their previous three games, struggling to score in the first half but showing promise in the second. Trailing 23-7 in the fourth quarter, the Hokies mounted a spirited comeback before falling short against the Scarlet Knights, 26-23.
One consistent for the Hokies has been Bhayshul Tuten's dominance on offense. He achieved his third consecutive 100-yard game (122 yards on 15 carries) and scored three rushing touchdowns, matching his career high in a single game. Tuten's game continues to emphasize his case for the best running back in the ACC.
Another recurring theme for Virginia Tech was the inconsistency in the passing game. Drones struggled throughout the matchup, completing just 13 passes on 27 attempts for 137 yards and an interception. Compounding his challenges, he also took a safety late in the second quarter, allowing Rutgers to extend their lead to 16-7 at the time.
Shifting the focus to Rutgers' offense, the Hokies managed to contain their main threat, running back Kyle Monangai, limiting him to 84 yards on 26 carries and just one touchdown. With the run game stifled, quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis stepped up, connecting with open receivers to finish with the most yards in the air this season, 269, on 16 of 25 passing.
While Kaliakmanis totaled his highest yards on the season, the Hokies secondary didn't allow a single touchdown in the air. The strong defensive performance, specifically in the second half, provides a glimpse of hope heading into No. 7 Miami this Friday. On the game, the Hokies defense also collected three sacks, seven tackles for loss, and caused a fumble on the two-yard line to prevent a touchdown.
Virginia Tech Football
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What's better than one sack? ✌️ of 'em #ThisIsHome | 📺 on ACC Network @Ae9eas @TwaunPowell
Virginia Tech Football
@HokiesFB
Took it to the 🏠 #ThisIsHome | 📺 on ACC Network @bhayshul h
The Miami Hurricanes have emerged as the toughest challenge on the Hokies' schedule, and my very well prove to be the hardest opponent of the season. Following a lackluster stretch in non-conference play, the heart of the season, ACC play, stands in front of them. Taking on the Hurricanes will be no easy task, but if the Hokies can deliver four true quarters of football, their chances of an upset become more logical.
