virginia tech-duke preview

Chris Hirons

October 3, 2020

Steamrolling its opponent last week, Virginia Tech’s offense went off like a ticking time bomb. The Braxton Burmiester-led Hokies exploded for 45 points —the most points the offense has scored in a season opener since slaughtering Appalachian State 66-13 in 2011— against a fragile NC State defense.

This week, the Hokies (1-0, 1-0 ACC) come in facing an inferior Duke team (0-3, 0-3 ACC). The winless Blue Devils came into Lane Stadium last season and clobbered Tech, defeating the Hokies 45-10.

Since, the teams have gone in two opposite directions. Tech turned things around in the right way, going 7-3 since, though the team was within a score or two of going 10-0.

Duke, on the other hand, is 2-9 since beating the Hokies last season, knocking off Georgia Tech and a Miami team that had reportedly gone clubbing the night before.

The Blue Devils come in with double-digit losses to its first three opponents: Notre Dame, Boston College and Virginia. Duke allowed more than 400 yards in two of those games, against the Fighting Irish and Cavaliers.

The offense, too, has struggled, averaging 13 points per game. It accounts as the eighth-worst offense in the nation out of the 72 teams that have qualified. For the record, the Hokies rank eighth.

With that being said, it’s a perfect opportunity for the Hokies to get revenge from last year’s loss.

Duke’s key to the game: Control Virginia Tech’s offensive line

We heard about how gifted Tech’s offensive line would be all season, especially with Coastal Carolina transfer Brock Hoffman’s plan to implement a nastiness and edge to it. The offensive line bullied NC State last week and only allowed two sacks, while the rushing attack racked up over 300 yards. Duke pass rushers Chris Rumph II and Victor Dimukeje will certainly give the offensive line a challenge. Pro Football Focus grades the two as one of the top pass rushing duos in the country.

Virginia Tech’s key to the game: Force Chase Brice out of the pocket

The Duke offense has had an issue keeping the football in its possession this season. The Blue Devils lead the nation in turnovers with 14, and quarterback Chase Brice’s season has been disrupted by poor offensive line play. In order for him to have the slightest chance to throw the ball, he’s been forced to leave the pocket on many occasions this fall. With heavy pocket pressure, Brice has completely whiffed on some throws, resulting in seven interceptions.

The Hokies defense created two turnovers last week — both interceptions. In a secondary that already has depth issues, it’ll be important for the entire defense to work together to force Brice into some bad throws.

Duke player to watch: Tight end Noah Gray

A future NFL draft pick, Gray has been the only real right spot for the Blue Devils this season. He leads the team in both receptions (13) and receiving yards (152), building on a solid 2019 campaign that saw him reel in 51 passes and three scores. In last season’s win over Tech, Gray had a huge impact, racking up six catches and two touchdowns.

Virginia Tech player to watch: Defensive end Justus Reed

Before the season started, there were questions about the 24-year-old, seventh-year player Reed. Sure, he racked up 12.5 sacks in 12 games with Youngstown State, but that was at the FCS level. In his return to Power-5 football last week, Reed put those questions to rest. On two third down occasions, Reed sacked NC State’s quarterback Bailey Hoffman en route to Tech’s win over the Wolfpack. In the past, Reed drew double teams and would even find his way around them. Even with Reed being on the field, his presence will influence the game in a big way, as he’ll open up holes for other players to sneak through.

Score Prediction: Virginia Tech 42, Duke 14.