1. Third down efficiency
The Hokies converted just 13% of their third-down attempts yesterday and struggled to move the football with their main offensive strategy, the running game. This week, the Hokies play Syracuse, a team with a very explosive offense. That means they’re more likely to pay for their mistakes than they would be against Georgia Tech, and they can’t afford to take any risks. Syracuse is currently averaging 30.9 points and 469.9 total yards per game. If the Hokies continue to compete on third down, Syracuse will likely win this game by a wide margin.
2. Run game
The Hokies’ running game hasn’t been as effective as Virginia Tech fans are used to seeing, but if that continues this week it could become a serious issue. The team currently averages 195.5 rushing yards per game, but only gained 89 total yards yesterday as Georgia Tech shut down its ground attack throughout the game. Adding to the concerns, star running back Beishul Tuten was injured in yesterday’s game, and it’s unclear if he’ll play next week. According to reports, he was seen wearing walking boots at the end of the match. It is also important to note that this result ends Tuten’s nine-game touchdown streak and marks the third time this season that he has been held to less than 100 rushing yards.
3. Passing game needs to be more consistent
This year, we’ve seen the Hokies’ offense start off slow and struggle to throw the football, and that was no different yesterday. Virginia Tech’s offense has allowed just 134 passing yards this season, averaging 181.5 yards per game. This probably needs to be improved. As we saw yesterday, teams will focus on stopping the run, forcing the Hokies to rely on the passing game. You also can’t rely on the defense to hold opponents to just six points and consistently provide the offense with good field position, especially against a high-powered offense like Syracuse.
Additional links:
Virginia Tech Football: 5 big takeaways from Virginia Tech vs. Georgia Tech win
Virginia Tech Football: 3 keys to victory for Hokies vs. Georgia Tech
Virginia Tech football: Hokies announce uniform combination for matchup against Georgia Tech
