Another Heartbreaking Loss for VT

Virginia Tech falls to 4-5 on the season as a tough-nosed Eagles squad handed the Hokies another lose at home, 33-31. This was an up and down game for the Hokies where they looked either electric on offense or simply couldn't move the football. The effort was definitely there this week, but with too many stalled drives and the defense giving up big plays in the running game the Eagles pulled out a win.

Other than Bud Foster's defense getting gashed in the ground game there was a different urgency among the coaches and players on the offensive side of the ball, especially in the 2nd half. Michael Brewer threw the ball well all afternoon, but the offensive line was still a weak point as Brewer had to scramble to make plays and the running game never got going.

Stats:

Offense: Brewer threw for 345 yards going 31-45 with 2 TDs, while rushing for another. From scrimmage the Hokies only ran the ball for 69 yards due to poor push from the offensive line up front. Isaiah Ford, Willie Byrn, Cam Phillips and the TEs continue to play well and make plays when given the opportunity.

Defense: The linebackers played outstanding this afternoon, especially Deon Clark and Andrew Motuapuaka who combined for 22 tackles. The problems occurred when BC was able to get to the secondary where Virginia Tech's defensive backs either over pursued or missed a tackle giving up big plays in critical situation. Overall, the defense gave up 258 yards on the ground and 110 through the air.

It was ugly at times, but sometimes you lose close games. Effort is not the problem and this team is one or two plays away (on defense today) from getting the win.

Opinion: Bud has to stop gambling on big plays because a more conservative look saves two huge touchdown runs in this game. The safeties are too far up on the plays and over pursue the ball carrier, which shifts the advantage in leverage to Boston College. Scot called too many screen passes throughout this game that really slowed this offense down. When Brewer is allowed to go play-action, down the field he is at his best. The offensive line still looks really bad, especially at center and right guard, which also forces the Hokies into long  2nd, 3rd and 4th downs.

The Hokies are now 1-4 in the ACC and sit in last place in the Coastal Division.