Even a cynical mind could not have seen the Virginia Tech and UVA football teams take two giant steps backward in lopsided losses this weekend. The Hokies’ run defense stunk up the joint, giving up 305 yards and 17 first downs to the Yellow Jackets’ explosive ground attack. And the Hoos’ newfound ability to stop the pass could not prevent a blowout loss at home.
Fortunately, both programs’ basketball teams had promising starts this week. UVA’s Nickeil Alexander-Walker and De’Andre Hunter went head to head in a hostile environment, and the pair produced a highlight reel for the crowd that was well worth the price of admission.
Both players will be critical for the Cavaliers as they try to make a comeback in their next game, a short-week trip to undefeated Louisville on Thursday. The ACC’s top defensive unit must contain Louisville’s offensive firepower, especially in the frontcourt.
As for VT, the offense may have to rely on some outside-zone plays to pull off the upset. That would depart from what the Hokies usually do, as they play a more conservative game. But it might not be that big of a change if the Hokies can keep their running game rolling.
Speaking of the run game, it would help the defense figure out how to stop Georgia Tech quarterback Justin Garrigan from making some big plays downfield. Garrigan was a monster in the air against the Heels and a threat on the ground. The Hokies need to stop him if they want any chance of an upset.
Despite a strong record, James Madison continues to fight the NCAA for the right to play in the postseason. The Dukes applied for a waiver this year to compete in a bowl game, but the NCAA still needs to change its position. On this week’s Teel & Barber, we speak with JMU athletic director Brian Morehead about the situation.
We’ll discuss whether or not the NCAA should budge and allow the Dukes to participate in the New Year’s Six, and we’ll also examine the decision that forced the school to withdraw its bid for full-time Division I status. And we’ll find out if Attorney General Jason Miyares will continue to stand up for the rights of small schools in the wake of this fight. This and more on this week’s episode of WRVA’s Teel & Barber, streaming online and on radio in the area. You can tune in this Monday at 7 p.m. at John Paul Jones Arena for the men’s and women’s opening games against Tarleton State University. The podcast will also be available on iTunes, Google Play, and the WRVA app. Thank you for tuning in! This week’s show is brought to you by Commonwealth Credit Union.
