The time is quickly approaching for the Hokies to match up against the defending champions: the No. 2 Clemson Tigers. But first, the No.13 Hokies need to take care of business against the Old Dominion Monarchs in Week 4.
Going into Week 4 of the college football season, the Hokies have a good chance of improving their record to 4-0. The No.13 Hokies, however, cannot afford to overlook the Old Dominion Monarchs on Saturday at Lane Stadium. Every game is important, and the Hokies need to take care of business before they can think about Clemson.
3 Keys to Victory:
1. Continued Success from the Defensive Line
The Hokies have come out on top in their first three games thanks to their ability to lock down their opponents’ offense. This trend will have to continue without cornerback Adonis Alexander who once again will not be playing in this week’s game due to suspension. However, the Hokies defense has proven to be aggressive, continuing to stand strong and hold off the opposing team.
With the secondary shorthanded, it becomes even more important for the defensive line to do their part and continue their week to week improvement.
The Hokies defense will remain as aggressive as always and should stand strong against a depleted ODU offense, who is starting a 17-year-old this week
2. Get Off to a Quick Start
Josh Jackson has been coming through for this team all season long.
When you pair Jackson and Cam Phillips, the outcome is points on the scoreboard. Phillips is the national leader in receiving yards this season, so the Monarchs will have a tough day having to guard him.
Despite these accolades, the Hokies have gotten off to slow starts on offense in each of the last two games. Not coming out of the gate slowly this week is imperative in this virtual tune-up game.
Having outstanding players on offense like Virginia Tech does should allow for a quick domination of the Monarchs, with the Hokies looking to end this one early.
3. Apply Pressure to ODU’s Defense with the Run Game
In last week’s game, the Hokies ran all over the Pirates. It was the best running day by a Virginia Tech team in a while. Travon McMillian looked like his old self once again, while Deshawn McClease, Jalen Holston, and Coleman Fox were all able to come in and have success.
A strong running game means less pressure on the freshman quarterback, who is still without an interception. For the Hokies to handle ODU comfortably, the running game has to be on point.
Recreating last week’s dynamic performance should wear the Monarchs in a big way come Saturday.
