Notre Dame vs. Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA
Undefeated Notre Dame is soaring through the air by the arm of new quarterback starter, Ian Book. Virginia Tech is 3-1 and the one loss was an embarrassment. The Hokies lost to Old Dominion 49-35 and the Hokies starting QB, Josh Jackson was lost to injury during the defeat. Jackson is out indefinitely with a broken tibia.
A first impression is the Irish have a big advantage. Oddsmakers are not so sure, with the spread hanging around six to seven points. The Hokies bounced back from the loss to a 29-point dog, by beating then, No. 22 Duke 31-14. In his first start for the Hokies, Ryan Willis threw for 332 yards and three touchdowns.
Some Virginia Tech insiders believe Willis is an upgrade for the Hokies passing attack. On top of his strong arm and quick release, he is mobile and strong enough to be a ground threat as well.
Further balancing the scales, Notre Dame lost its most experienced offensive lineman and co-captain, Alex Bars to a season-ending injury. Even before the Bars injury, the Irish offensive line was the position group with the biggest dropoff in talent from last season.
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The strength of the Hokies defense is its defensive line. Bud Foster will look to stuff the Irish rushing attack and make Book carry the load. His defenses have a history of succeeding in such a task. However, the Hokies have shown frequent vulnerability against the pass. If Virginia Tech can get pressure on Book without over-committing defensive numbers, the Hokies secondary may be able to cope with talented Notre Dame receivers. If not, Book will light them up.
Virginia Tech may have an advantage in field goal kicking with sophomore, Brian Johnson who is 4-of-4 on the season. Notre Dame senior, Justin Yoon will have to perform in one of the most hostile environments in CFB, Lane Stadium. Both teams have strong-legged punters but the advantage goes to the Irish with Tyler Newsome, who is averaging 46.1 yards per punt.
IF, and it is a big if, VT can pressure Book and protect Willis, this game is a tossup. As an Alabama football fan, I will use my heart more than my head … and go with the upset.
Game Prediction: Bama Hammer, Lead Writer, Ronald Evans; Virginia Tech 27 – Notre Dame 24
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