The Old Dominion University (ODU) Monarchs and the Virginia Tech Hokies have a long-standing football rivalry that dates back to 1986. The two teams have clashed a total of 13 times, with Virginia Tech leading the series 13-0. Despite the lopsided record, the rivalry remains intense and highly anticipated each year.
Understanding the Rivalry
The ODU-Va Tech rivalry is deeply rooted in the geographic and cultural differences between the two institutions. Old Dominion University, located in Norfolk, Virginia, is a coastal school with a strong presence in the Hampton Roads region. Virginia Tech, on the other hand, is situated in Blacksburg, Virginia, in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
These differences in location and culture have contributed to a sense of regional pride and competitiveness between the two schools. The rivalry is further fueled by the fact that both teams compete in the same state, with many recruits and fans having ties to both institutions.
Key Clashes in the Rivalry
While Virginia Tech has dominated the series, there have been several key clashes that stand out as notable moments in the rivalry.
- 1986: The first meeting between the two teams took place on November 15, 1986, with Virginia Tech winning 42-0.
- 1998: In one of the closest games in the series, Virginia Tech edged out ODU 34-31.
- 2002: The Hokies shut out the Monarchs 55-0, marking the largest margin of victory in the series.
These games have helped shape the rivalry and contributed to the intense competition between the two teams.
ODU's Quest for Upset
Despite the lopsided record, ODU has come close to upsetting Virginia Tech on several occasions. In 2014, the Monarchs lost a heartbreaker 38-37, with Virginia Tech scoring the winning touchdown with just seconds remaining.
This near-upset has given ODU fans hope that the Monarchs can one day turn the tables and defeat their rivals.
Impact on Recruiting and Local Community
The ODU-Va Tech rivalry has significant implications for recruiting and the local community. The rivalry is often seen as a battle for bragging rights, with the winner earning the right to claim superiority in the state.
Recruits from the Hampton Roads region are often torn between attending ODU or Virginia Tech, with the rivalry playing a significant role in their decision-making process. The rivalry also affects the local community, with fans from both sides frequently interacting and engaging in friendly competition.
Coaching Rivalry
The ODU-Va Tech rivalry is also fueled by the coaching rivalry between the two teams. Virginia Tech's Justin Fuente and ODU's Ricky Rahne have a long history of competition, dating back to their days as assistants in the ACC.
The coaching rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity to the series, with both coaches looking to outmaneuver each other on the sidelines.
Future of the Rivalry
Despite the lopsided record, the ODU-Va Tech rivalry remains one of the most intense and highly anticipated in the state. With the two teams scheduled to meet annually for the foreseeable future, the rivalry is poised to continue for years to come.
As ODU continues to grow and develop its football program, the Monarchs may one day pose a serious threat to Virginia Tech's dominance. Until then, the rivalry will remain a source of pride and competition for both teams.
Call to Action
Are you ready to join the conversation and share your thoughts on the ODU-Va Tech rivalry? Share your favorite moments, predictions, and analysis in the comments below!
Gallery of ODU vs Va Tech Football Rivalry
FAQ Section
What is the current record between ODU and Va Tech?
+Va Tech leads the series 13-0.
What is the significance of the ODU-Va Tech rivalry?
+The rivalry is significant due to the geographic and cultural differences between the two institutions, as well as the competition for recruits and local bragging rights.
What is the future outlook for the ODU-Va Tech rivalry?
+The rivalry is expected to continue for years to come, with ODU potentially posing a threat to Va Tech's dominance in the future.