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Virginia Tech first went to the Independence Bowl in 1984 and the Hokies lost that game to Air Force 23-7. Back then, a bowl game for Virginia Tech was not a common occurrence considering that the Hokies had only been to 4 bowl games prior to the 1984 season. That game was not Frank Beamers first bowl game, but it was not the game that started the 23 year run that Frank and Co. have been on. That game was the 1993 Independence Bowl where the Hokies squared off against Indiana and now we are full circle with Frank Beamer coaching his final bowl game back in Louisiana and back in the Independence Bowl.
#HokieHeadlines Beamer’s streak to end where it started - Indy Bowl via @normwood https://t.co/vR0rSIcm3J pic.twitter.com/ZyucQ0PhQb
— VT Football (@VT_Football) December 7, 2015
While this nostalgic moment will surely be one for Frank to remember it is just another second tier bowl game for much of HokieNation. However, I hope most fans put this into perspective. Frank Beamer has built Virginia Tech to what it is today over a 29 year career that has seen Virginia Tech go from lowly Independent to the pinnacle of college football playing in a league that has bolstered several national titles.
The #40thIndyBowl sure has some nostalgia. @TulsaFootball in the first I-Bowl in 1976 & Frank Beamer's 1st & last bowl games w/ @VT_Football
— CampingWorldIndyBowl (@IndyBowl) December 6, 2015
The Hokies will square off against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane a 6-6 squad that is still working to find its identity much like the Virginia Tech. While many Hokie fans are may not be familiar with the AAC side, I encourage you all to learn a little more because the Hokie in my opinion might have their hands full come December 26th. The pressure and emotions are high for both sides, but the Hokies have to overcome theirs because Tulsa will be aiming for a statement win, while the Hokies are saying "Good Bye" to Frank Beamer.
This is just awesome! #ThanksFrank https://t.co/uJ5tWwPm1C
— CampingWorldIndyBowl (@IndyBowl) December 7, 2015
Go Hokies!