The world of college football is known for its intense rivalries, and one such rivalry that has been renewed in recent years is the one between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion. These two teams, hailing from the same state, have a long history of competition that dates back to the 1980s. However, it wasn't until the 2010s that their rivalry gained momentum, and it has since become one of the most anticipated matchups in the state of Virginia.
For years, Virginia Tech has been the dominant force in Virginia college football, with a rich history of producing talented players and competing in top-tier conferences. Old Dominion, on the other hand, has been working its way up the ranks, having transitioned from the FCS to the FBS in 2013. Despite their differences in history and prestige, the two teams have developed a strong dislike for each other, which is evident in their on-field battles.
One of the main reasons for the renewed rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion is the fact that they are both vying for state supremacy. Virginia Tech has long been considered the top program in the state, but Old Dominion's rise to prominence has challenged that status. The two teams have met on the field several times since 2013, with each game being a closely contested and intense affair.
In addition to their on-field battles, the rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion has also been fueled by their geographic proximity. The two schools are located just over 200 miles apart, which makes for a natural rivalry. The close distance between the two schools also means that the games are often well-attended, with many fans from both sides making the trip to support their team.
Another factor that has contributed to the renewed rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion is the recruiting battle. Both schools are constantly competing for the top high school talent in the state, which has led to a number of heated recruiting battles over the years. This competition has only added to the intensity of their on-field matchups.
In recent years, the rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion has reached new heights. The two teams have met on the field several times, with each game being a closely contested and intense affair. In 2018, Old Dominion pulled off a major upset, defeating Virginia Tech 49-35 in a game that will be remembered for years to come.
History of the Rivalry
The rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion dates back to the 1980s, when the two teams first met on the field. At the time, Old Dominion was a member of the FCS, while Virginia Tech was competing in the Metro Conference. Despite their differences in division, the two teams developed a strong dislike for each other, which was evident in their on-field battles.
Over the years, the rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion has only grown in intensity. The two teams have met on the field several times, with each game being a closely contested and intense affair. In 2013, Old Dominion made the transition to the FBS, which marked a new era in their rivalry with Virginia Tech.
Notable Games in the Series
The rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion has been marked by several notable games over the years. One of the most memorable games in the series came in 2018, when Old Dominion pulled off a major upset, defeating Virginia Tech 49-35. The game was played in front of a packed crowd at Foreman Field, and it marked one of the biggest wins in Old Dominion's history.
Another notable game in the series came in 2019, when Virginia Tech defeated Old Dominion 31-17. The game was played at Lane Stadium, and it marked one of the biggest wins of the season for the Hokies.
Coaches and Players
The rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion has been marked by several notable coaches and players over the years. One of the most notable coaches in the series is Virginia Tech's Justin Fuente, who has been at the helm of the Hokies since 2016. Fuente has led the Hokies to several wins over Old Dominion, and he is widely regarded as one of the top coaches in the state.
On the other side of the rivalry is Old Dominion's Bobby Wilder, who has been the head coach of the Monarchs since 2007. Wilder has led the Monarchs to several wins over Virginia Tech, and he is widely regarded as one of the top coaches in the FBS.
In terms of players, the rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion has been marked by several notable performances over the years. One of the most notable players in the series is Virginia Tech's Ryan Willis, who threw for 362 yards and 2 touchdowns in the Hokies' 31-17 win over Old Dominion in 2019.
On the other side of the rivalry is Old Dominion's Steven Williams, who threw for 312 yards and 2 touchdowns in the Monarchs' 49-35 win over Virginia Tech in 2018.
Impact on the Community
The rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion has had a significant impact on the community over the years. The two teams have a strong following in the state of Virginia, and their games are often well-attended. The rivalry has also had a positive impact on the local economy, with many fans traveling to the games and spending money at local businesses.
In addition to its impact on the community, the rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion has also had a positive impact on the sport of college football as a whole. The rivalry has helped to raise the profile of college football in the state of Virginia, and it has attracted new fans to the sport.
Future of the Rivalry
The rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion is expected to continue for many years to come. The two teams have a strong following in the state of Virginia, and their games are often well-attended. The rivalry has also had a positive impact on the community, and it has helped to raise the profile of college football in the state.
In the future, the rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion is expected to only get more intense. The two teams are constantly competing for the top high school talent in the state, and their games are often closely contested. With the rivalry showing no signs of slowing down, fans can expect many more exciting matchups between these two teams in the years to come.
In conclusion, the rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion is one of the most intense and closely contested in the state of Virginia. The two teams have a long history of competition that dates back to the 1980s, and their games are often well-attended. With the rivalry showing no signs of slowing down, fans can expect many more exciting matchups between these two teams in the years to come.
What is the history of the rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion?
+The rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion dates back to the 1980s, when the two teams first met on the field.
Who are some notable coaches and players in the series?
+Some notable coaches in the series include Virginia Tech's Justin Fuente and Old Dominion's Bobby Wilder. Some notable players in the series include Virginia Tech's Ryan Willis and Old Dominion's Steven Williams.
What is the future of the rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion?
+The rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion is expected to continue for many years to come. The two teams have a strong following in the state of Virginia, and their games are often well-attended.