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Written by Shamus Williams
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Tuesday, 31 October 2006 |
It was supposed to be the biggest ACC game of
the week and the one that was supposed to decide a division winner, but
unfortunately neither of those is true. However, anytime Virginia
Tech and Miami get together on the football field, you can expect one
heck of a game, and this year will be no different. Although both
teams are effectively eliminated from the division race, both have big
things to play for.
Miami comes into this game looking to rebound
from a disappointing season that is more known for fighting than
football. The Hurricanes had a golden opportunity to put all that
talk about fighting and the program on the decline to rest with a
victory over Georgia Tech, but they came out and play another stinker
of a game and lost 30-23. Miami is now left fighting for less
desirable bowl locations like Orlando, Nashville and Charlotte and
playing for their pride. Larry Coker is almost sure to be fired
and the offense is horrible at times, but Miami still has a lot of
talent on the sidelines and will present a major challenge to the
Hokies. When Miami has the ball, look for them to hand it off to
Javarris James (NFL RB Edgerrin James’ cousin). James is a very
skilled back who has a great burst. The Hokies must contain him
in order to be successful against the Hurricanes offense. When
the Hurricanes decide to pass, QB Kyle Wright will be looking for TE
Greg Olsen. Olsen had a huge game against the Hokies in Lane
Stadium last year, so covering him will be key. Miami may receive
a lift in WR Ryan Moore returning from suspension. His status is
up in the air as of now.
When the Hokies have the ball, look for a ton
of handoffs to Branden Ore. Ore has had two straight 200-yard
games and is 9th in the nation in rushing yards per game. Look
for Ore to get around 25-30 carries in this one if the Hokies are to be
successful. When passing, the Hokies will need to get into 3rd
and shorts to make it easier for Sean Glennon. If the Hokies can
stay on schedule, then they have a great shot at putting up some
serious points. Last week prior to the Clemson game, Frank Beamer
said he was going to use two QBs. Ike Whittaker never made into
that game, but look for the backup to get a few snaps in this one,
especially if the offensive line struggles early. Whittaker is a
tremendous athlete, but has a lot of work to do with his arm and
decision-making.
Both teams possess very good special teams,
and one huge play in this department could turn the entire game
around. Both teams have explosive playmakers in the return game,
as well as the ability to block a kick at any time. It is a safe
bet that whoever makes a key play in special teams, whether it be a
block or a return, will win this game.
MIAMI’S 3 KEYS TO THE GAME
• Stop the running game of Tech and force Glennon to throw
• Kyle Wright needs to make some big plays in the passing game
• Get Olsen involved early and often
VIRGINIA TECH’S 3 KEYS TO THE GAME
• Three words: Run The Football
• Force Miami into 3rd and long situations where they can blitz Wright
• Play smart and don’t fall into the “Miami attitude trap”
ANALYSIS
If Miami has any pride, then they need to show it
now. It is an embattled program to say the least, and they are
playing their second-biggest rival this weekend at home. Virginia
Tech showed that it still has some heart left after a huge win against
Clemson, now we will see just how much the team has grown up. The
Orange Bowl is a difficult place to play, but Hokies may outnumber
Hurricanes in the stands come Saturday night. If Tech runs the
ball well and doesn’t commit any stupid penalties, then they will
win. If not, expect to hear some grumblings coming from
Blacksburg.
PREDICTION: Virginia Tech 24 Miami 17
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Virginia Tech 