The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and the Sun Belt Conference are set to collide in a thrilling matchup between the Virginia Tech Hokies and the Old Dominion Monarchs. Both teams are looking to make a statement in the early stages of the season, and this game promises to be an exciting encounter.
Understanding the Teams
Before we dive into the prediction, let's take a closer look at both teams and their strengths and weaknesses.
Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies, led by head coach Brent Pry, are coming off a mediocre season in 2022, finishing with a 3-8 overall record. However, they have shown significant improvement in the offseason, and their recruiting class has been ranked among the top 25 in the nation. Virginia Tech's offense will be led by quarterback Grant Wells, who transferred from Marshall and is expected to bring a new level of excitement to the team.
Old Dominion Monarchs
The Monarchs, under the guidance of head coach Ricky Rahne, have been on a rollercoaster ride in recent years. After going 6-7 in 2021, they dropped to 3-9 in 2022. However, Old Dominion has made significant changes to their coaching staff and has brought in several talented transfers to bolster their roster. The Monarchs' offense will be led by quarterback Hayden Wolff, who threw for over 2,000 yards last season.
Head-to-Head Matchup
When looking at the head-to-head matchup between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion, it's clear that the Hokies have the upper hand. Virginia Tech has won five of the last six meetings between the two teams, including a 38-0 shutout victory in 2018.
Key Statistics
Here are some key statistics to consider when making a prediction:
- Virginia Tech has averaged 22.5 points per game in their last six meetings against Old Dominion.
- The Hokies have allowed an average of 17.3 points per game in their last six meetings against the Monarchs.
- Old Dominion has struggled to move the ball against Virginia Tech, averaging just 263.5 total yards per game in their last six meetings.
- The Monarchs have turned the ball over an average of 2.3 times per game in their last six meetings against the Hokies.
Game Prediction
Based on the analysis above, I predict that Virginia Tech will come out on top in this matchup. The Hokies' defense has been stellar against the Monarchs in recent years, and I expect them to shut down Old Dominion's offense. On the other side of the ball, Grant Wells and the Virginia Tech offense will look to exploit the Monarchs' defense and put up a significant number of points.
Final Score Prediction
Virginia Tech 31, Old Dominion 13
Why Virginia Tech Will Win
There are several reasons why I believe Virginia Tech will emerge victorious:
- The Hokies have a significant advantage in terms of talent and depth on both sides of the ball.
- Virginia Tech's defense has been excellent against the Monarchs in recent years, and I expect them to continue that trend.
- Grant Wells and the Virginia Tech offense will look to attack the Monarchs' defense through the air and on the ground.
- Old Dominion's offense has struggled to move the ball against the Hokies in recent years, and I expect that trend to continue.
Why Old Dominion Could Win
While I believe Virginia Tech has the upper hand, there are several reasons why Old Dominion could pull off an upset:
- The Monarchs have made significant changes to their coaching staff and have brought in several talented transfers to bolster their roster.
- Old Dominion's offense has the potential to be explosive, and if they can get going, they could put up a significant number of points.
- The Monarchs' defense has been improved in the offseason, and if they can shut down the Hokies' offense, they could have a chance to win.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Old Dominion has the potential to pull off an upset, I believe Virginia Tech's talent and depth on both sides of the ball will be too much for the Monarchs to handle. The Hokies' defense will shut down Old Dominion's offense, and Grant Wells and the Virginia Tech offense will put up a significant number of points. Look for Virginia Tech to come out on top in this matchup.
Gallery of Virginia Tech vs Old Dominion
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the all-time record between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion?
+Virginia Tech leads the all-time series 6-1.
What is the average score of the last six meetings between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion?
+The average score of the last six meetings is Virginia Tech 22.5, Old Dominion 17.3.
Who is the starting quarterback for Virginia Tech?
+Grant Wells is the starting quarterback for Virginia Tech.