Virginia Tech Football: 5 Biggest Takeaways From The Hokies Loss to Duke

1. The game of passing

With the exception of wide receiver Ali Jennings, who recorded over 100 yards receiving for the first time this season, Virginia Tech had trouble getting the passing game going Friday evening. After quarterback Collin Schlee left with an injury following a violent hit, quarterback Pop Watson had his first game of regular action and had a terrible game, throwing for 146 yards and recording one interception.

2. Efficiency of the Third Down

The Hokies had a difficult time this evening, making less than 40% of their third-down efforts. This has proven an issue in some of the Hokies’ losses, as they have fallen below 40% despite beginning the season above that threshold.

3. Protection

Tonight, the Hokie defence struggled against pass-heavy sides, giving up three receiving touchdowns in the first half and another ten points after halftime. The Hokie defence has been struggling with this coming out of halftime for the past few games, and it has cost them in some of those games.

4. Tuten Bhayshul

After failing to score a touchdown since the Boston College game last month, Virginia Tech running back Bhayshul Tuten appeared to be a cause for concern. Tuten ran for 84 yards on 19 carries and one touchdown in this game.

5. Expensive Errors

The Hokies lost this game because they made expensive errors that prevented them from participating in the game. Duke had two strong passing passes down the field for scores of 86 and 77 yards, respectively, during the game’s first two drives. The Hokies allowed eight offensive sacks, two fumbles, and an interception throughout the game.