Roanoke Times

zappaa

Heisman
Jul 27, 2001
73,350
89,457
103
Always does an excellent job covering Virginia Tech.
Of course their articles are paywalled.

From a tech impaired person (me) is it safe to use my credit card on line so I can access their articles?

i don’t have any protection plans on my cellphone
 

BossNJ

All-American
Oct 6, 2020
9,631
8,330
113
Thanks Al.
The entire orbit of Virginia Tech is speaking very respectfully of us.

Please, no one post some random fan of theirs who thinks we’re an easy win, it’s not indicative of all things V Tech
We are not an easy win but neither are they.. We’d better be ready for Drones because he’s a much better QB now than when we played them.
 

RUbacker

Heisman
Dec 5, 2014
15,508
21,440
108
Thanks Al.
The entire orbit of Virginia Tech is speaking very respectfully of us.

Please, no one post some random fan of theirs who thinks we’re an easy win, it’s not indicative of all things V Tech
Well we did beat them last year zap so I would hope they show some respect toward us, unlike Syracuse fans that think and act like we haven’t been beating them .
 

RUPete

Heisman
Feb 5, 2003
26,846
16,117
0
I don't ever remember their fans being disrespectful going back to our BE days. They were always one of the better fanbases. As for the game, will be a tough game and possibly a season barometer game. I do think we'll be more prepared for Drones and the challenges he presents: scrambling/mobility. If I recall correctly, we weren't sure that he was starting heading into our game last year.
 

cicero grimes

All-American
Nov 23, 2015
8,359
8,886
0
Hopefully we will still be able to play ball control with our running game and wear them down in the 2nd half.
 

beaced_rivals

Heisman
Jul 18, 2004
32,005
10,319
0
Hey guys, beaced here. Was going to post a pic of me at 98 years seven months but not able to do it at this time. We'll try for the future. In the meantime thank you all for being the good guys you are. Eagerly waiting for the first game to start. Will try to read and be able to respond to posts in the future. Have a good rest of the summer. Talk to you guys soon.
 

WhiteBus

Heisman
Oct 4, 2011
39,346
21,729
113
I don't ever remember their fans being disrespectful going back to our BE days. They were always one of the better fanbases. As for the game, will be a tough game and possibly a season barometer game. I do think we'll be more prepared for Drones and the challenges he presents: scrambling/mobility. If I recall correctly, we weren't sure that he was starting heading into our game last year.
Agree 100% about their fans. Maybe the best in our days in the Big East.
 

RU#1fan

Heisman
Mar 7, 2003
23,024
11,801
113
I don't ever remember their fans being disrespectful going back to our BE days. They were always one of the better fanbases. As for the game, will be a tough game and possibly a season barometer game. I do think we'll be more prepared for Drones and the challenges he presents: scrambling/mobility. If I recall correctly, we weren't sure that he was starting heading into our game last year.
This.
I remember going to games at Rutgers Stadium with VT visiting and Michael Vick as the QB. Their traveling fans were always quite respectful. Of course it was different time for us. VT were well developed players that were big, fast, and strong and we were undersized light weights.. usually lower classmen.
 

Knight Shift

Heisman
May 19, 2011
85,281
82,773
113
Hey guys, beaced here. Was going to post a pic of me at 98 years seven months but not able to do it at this time. We'll try for the future. In the meantime thank you all for being the good guys you are. Eagerly waiting for the first game to start. Will try to read and be able to respond to posts in the future. Have a good rest of the summer. Talk to you guys soon.
Great to hear from you sir! Should be an exciting season.
 
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Apr 8, 2002
15,156
25,441
113
Supposedly they addressed their issues against the run last season thru the Portal. We'll see.
Va. Tech returns 86% of its production from last year. By far, this is the most in the nation compared to all other FBS schools, as it is one of two teams with more than 80% of its production back for another season. Experience is on the side of Va. Tech, but will it translate to 2024? Will the defense keep pace with an improving offense?

Offense: QB Kyron Drones is the key to the Hokies' success. As Drones go, so does Va. Tech. Drones threw for 17 touchdowns and over 2,000 yards while adding over 800 rushing yards and five more scores on the ground. Drones was the running game for Va. Tech, and most of that happened when there was no one to pass to or the Oline broke down in protection. With a healthy receiving unit (Lane, Jennings, & Felton) back intact, the passing game should improve. These three were hurt one and off for most of the year, but when healthy, they had chemistry with Drones, and they did damage to opposing teams. The Hokies don’t have an outstanding individual receiver, but the sum of the parts is dangerous. Jersey native Bhayshul Tuten led the Hokies in rushing last year with 863 yards. I’m not impressed with him as an RB. More than half of his yards came in 3 games against Tulane, UVA., and Syracuse. Drones’ ability to run made teams respect the ground game.

Overall: Va. Tech’s offense is more challenging this year than in 2023. Rutgers must control the clock and score quickly to keep the Hokies off-balance. You don’t want to give Va. Tech’s offense a chance to get into a groove and set the tone. This means Rutgers has to put pressure on an average Oline while not losing containment on Drones. This is where Drones is most dangerous, and his actions get the Hokies going. Unless the RB can complement Drones, you can make them one-dimensional, and they become their own worst enemies.

Defense: DE Antwaun Powell-Ryland may be as good as the top DE in the B1G. Powell-Ryland was the D-line for the Hokies last year and finished with 9.5 sacks. HC Brent Pry was so concerned with the inconsistent play of the D-line Pry dipped in the transfer portal for 3 defensive tackles to help free up Powell-Ryland and make him more effective. Another impact player for the Hokies is CB Dorian Strong. He set career highs in tackles, pass breakups, and inceptions. Strong is the Hokies best overall secondary player. The strength of the defense is along the D-line and secondary.

Overall: While Virginia Tech's stats may make them look good against the pass, the truth is that teams often exploited their run defense. Adding the D-line transfers could be the missing ingredient that the Hokies need to balance their defense and complement their offense. Although Strong leads a 'solid' secondary, the unit still has questions to answer, just like the D-line. The fact that Virginia Tech replaces their MLB with a transfer from Middle Tenn. indicates that the middle of the defense remains a concern. The middle of the defense looks good but it is a little undersized and relies on quickness to defeat size and strength.
 

WhiteBus

Heisman
Oct 4, 2011
39,346
21,729
113
Va. Tech returns 86% of its production from last year. By far, this is the most in the nation compared to all other FBS schools, as it is one of two teams with more than 80% of its production back for another season. Experience is on the side of Va. Tech, but will it translate to 2024? Will the defense keep pace with an improving offense?

Offense: QB Kyron Drones is the key to the Hokies' success. As Drones go, so does Va. Tech. Drones threw for 17 touchdowns and over 2,000 yards while adding over 800 rushing yards and five more scores on the ground. Drones was the running game for Va. Tech, and most of that happened when there was no one to pass to or the Oline broke down in protection. With a healthy receiving unit (Lane, Jennings, & Felton) back intact, the passing game should improve. These three were hurt one and off for most of the year, but when healthy, they had chemistry with Drones, and they did damage to opposing teams. The Hokies don’t have an outstanding individual receiver, but the sum of the parts is dangerous. Jersey native Bhayshul Tuten led the Hokies in rushing last year with 863 yards. I’m not impressed with him as an RB. More than half of his yards came in 3 games against Tulane, UVA., and Syracuse. Drones’ ability to run made teams respect the ground game.

Overall: Va. Tech’s offense is more challenging this year than in 2023. Rutgers must control the clock and score quickly to keep the Hokies off-balance. You don’t want to give Va. Tech’s offense a chance to get into a groove and set the tone. This means Rutgers has to put pressure on an average Oline while not losing containment on Drones. This is where Drones is most dangerous, and his actions get the Hokies going. Unless the RB can complement Drones, you can make them one-dimensional, and they become their own worst enemies.

Defense: DE Antwaun Powell-Ryland may be as good as the top DE in the B1G. Powell-Ryland was the D-line for the Hokies last year and finished with 9.5 sacks. HC Brent Pry was so concerned with the inconsistent play of the D-line Pry dipped in the transfer portal for 3 defensive tackles to help free up Powell-Ryland and make him more effective. Another impact player for the Hokies is CB Dorian Strong. He set career highs in tackles, pass breakups, and inceptions. Strong is the Hokies best overall secondary player. The strength of the defense is along the D-line and secondary.

Overall: While Virginia Tech's stats may make them look good against the pass, the truth is that teams often exploited their run defense. Adding the D-line transfers could be the missing ingredient that the Hokies need to balance their defense and complement their offense. Although Strong leads a 'solid' secondary, the unit still has questions to answer, just like the D-line. The fact that Virginia Tech replaces their MLB with a transfer from Middle Tenn. indicates that the middle of the defense remains a concern. The middle of the defense looks good but it is a little undersized and relies on quickness to defeat size and strength.
How long did it take you to research and type this? Is there a movie? 😂
 
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RU848789

Heisman
Jul 27, 2001
64,338
43,447
113
I do it every year out of habit from my coaching days. I have write-ups on every Rutgers opponent. I usually keep to myself. 😊
Great stuff - why would you keep that to yourself, especially given your knowledge and experience? All you need is a pithy title and a prediction at the end and you have your blog.
 

RU89

All-Conference
Oct 30, 2001
2,310
1,526
113
Hey guys, beaced here. Was going to post a pic of me at 98 years seven months but not able to do it at this time. We'll try for the future. In the meantime thank you all for being the good guys you are. Eagerly waiting for the first game to start. Will try to read and be able to respond to posts in the future. Have a good rest of the summer. Talk to you guys soon.
God Bless you Beaced….every time i see you post it brings a smile to my face as im sure it does for most of us here……and i always think…. Holy crap….he was born 2 years before Babe Ruth had his 60 home run season. A living legend my friend.
 

srru86

All-Conference
Jul 25, 2001
17,877
4,199
113
I don't ever remember their fans being disrespectful going back to our BE days. They were always one of the better fanbases. As for the game, will be a tough game and possibly a season barometer game. I do think we'll be more prepared for Drones and the challenges he presents: scrambling/mobility. If I recall correctly, we weren't sure that he was starting heading into our game last year.
In person they were never particularly rude or anything. Most were nice enough.

On-line they were ok. There was a contingent that during the height of Beamer Ball and Michael Vick liked to post that while ESPN used "RUTG" for our on-screen score board abbreviation they should use "RUTS" as in Running Up The Score, which they would do each time they played us.

Not the worst online trash talk, but not the most witty either.
 

Knight Shift

Heisman
May 19, 2011
85,281
82,773
113
In person they were never particularly rude or anything. Most were nice enough.

On-line they were ok. There was a contingent that during the height of Beamer Ball and Michael Vick liked to post that while ESPN used "RUTG" for our on-screen score board abbreviation they should use "RUTS" as in Running Up The Score, which they would do each time they played us.

Not the worst online trash talk, but not the most witty either.
Is the arc of history on our side?

RU "owned" VT 1920-1992 😂
Then the dark years of 1993-2003 (and 2012 and that painful 13-10 Bowl loss)
The tide turned again in 2023!


RESULTS:
(HOME) 2023/09/16 Rutgers 35 - Virginia Tech 16 W
(N) 2012/12/28 Rutgers 10 - Virginia Tech 13 OT L !! Russell Athletic Bowl !!
(HOME) 2003/10/04 Rutgers 22 - Virginia Tech 48 L
(AWAY) 2002/10/19 Rutgers 14 - Virginia Tech 35 L
(HOME) 2001/09/22 Rutgers 0 - Virginia Tech 50 L
(AWAY) 2000/09/16 Rutgers 0 - Virginia Tech 49 L
(HOME) 1999/10/09 Rutgers 20 - Virginia Tech 58 L
(AWAY) 1998/11/21 Rutgers 7 - Virginia Tech 47 L
(HOME) 1997/08/30 Rutgers 19 - Virginia Tech 59 L
(AWAY) 1996/09/21 Rutgers 14 - Virginia Tech 30 L
(HOME) 1995/10/21 Rutgers 17 - Virginia Tech 45 L
(AWAY) 1994/11/12 Rutgers 34 - Virginia Tech 41 L
(AWAY) 1993/10/23 Rutgers 42 - Virginia Tech 49 L
(HOME) 1992/10/31 Rutgers 50 - Virginia Tech 49 W
(HOME) 1953/10/03 Rutgers 20 - Virginia Tech 13 W
(HOME) 1920/10/16 Rutgers 19 - Virginia Tech 6 W

 

beaced_rivals

Heisman
Jul 18, 2004
32,005
10,319
0
Va. Tech returns 86% of its production from last year. By far, this is the most in the nation compared to all other FBS schools, as it is one of two teams with more than 80% of its production back for another season. Experience is on the side of Va. Tech, but will it translate to 2024? Will the defense keep pace with an improving offense?

Offense: QB Kyron Drones is the key to the Hokies' success. As Drones go, so does Va. Tech. Drones threw for 17 touchdowns and over 2,000 yards while adding over 800 rushing yards and five more scores on the ground. Drones was the running game for Va. Tech, and most of that happened when there was no one to pass to or the Oline broke down in protection. With a healthy receiving unit (Lane, Jennings, & Felton) back intact, the passing game should improve. These three were hurt one and off for most of the year, but when healthy, they had chemistry with Drones, and they did damage to opposing teams. The Hokies don’t have an outstanding individual receiver, but the sum of the parts is dangerous. Jersey native Bhayshul Tuten led the Hokies in rushing last year with 863 yards. I’m not impressed with him as an RB. More than half of his yards came in 3 games against Tulane, UVA., and Syracuse. Drones’ ability to run made teams respect the ground game.

Overall: Va. Tech’s offense is more challenging this year than in 2023. Rutgers must control the clock and score quickly to keep the Hokies off-balance. You don’t want to give Va. Tech’s offense a chance to get into a groove and set the tone. This means Rutgers has to put pressure on an average Oline while not losing containment on Drones. This is where Drones is most dangerous, and his actions get the Hokies going. Unless the RB can complement Drones, you can make them one-dimensional, and they become their own worst enemies.

Defense: DE Antwaun Powell-Ryland may be as good as the top DE in the B1G. Powell-Ryland was the D-line for the Hokies last year and finished with 9.5 sacks. HC Brent Pry was so concerned with the inconsistent play of the D-line Pry dipped in the transfer portal for 3 defensive tackles to help free up Powell-Ryland and make him more effective. Another impact player for the Hokies is CB Dorian Strong. He set career highs in tackles, pass breakups, and inceptions. Strong is the Hokies best overall secondary player. The strength of the defense is along the D-line and secondary.

Overall: While Virginia Tech's stats may make them look good against the pass, the truth is that teams often exploited their run defense. Adding the D-line transfers could be the missing ingredient that the Hokies need to balance their defense and complement their offense. Although Strong leads a 'solid' secondary, the unit still has questions to answer, just like the D-line. The fact that Virginia Tech replaces their MLB with a transfer from Middle Tenn. indicates that the middle of the defense remains a concern. The middle of the defense looks good but it is a little undersized and relies on quickness to defeat size and strength.
Very well done.
 

365Poster24Seven

All-Conference
Oct 13, 2022
1,012
1,284
0
Va. Tech returns 86% of its production from last year. By far, this is the most in the nation compared to all other FBS schools, as it is one of two teams with more than 80% of its production back for another season. Experience is on the side of Va. Tech, but will it translate to 2024? Will the defense keep pace with an improving offense?

Offense: QB Kyron Drones is the key to the Hokies' success. As Drones go, so does Va. Tech. Drones threw for 17 touchdowns and over 2,000 yards while adding over 800 rushing yards and five more scores on the ground. Drones was the running game for Va. Tech, and most of that happened when there was no one to pass to or the Oline broke down in protection. With a healthy receiving unit (Lane, Jennings, & Felton) back intact, the passing game should improve. These three were hurt one and off for most of the year, but when healthy, they had chemistry with Drones, and they did damage to opposing teams. The Hokies don’t have an outstanding individual receiver, but the sum of the parts is dangerous. Jersey native Bhayshul Tuten led the Hokies in rushing last year with 863 yards. I’m not impressed with him as an RB. More than half of his yards came in 3 games against Tulane, UVA., and Syracuse. Drones’ ability to run made teams respect the ground game.

Overall: Va. Tech’s offense is more challenging this year than in 2023. Rutgers must control the clock and score quickly to keep the Hokies off-balance. You don’t want to give Va. Tech’s offense a chance to get into a groove and set the tone. This means Rutgers has to put pressure on an average Oline while not losing containment on Drones. This is where Drones is most dangerous, and his actions get the Hokies going. Unless the RB can complement Drones, you can make them one-dimensional, and they become their own worst enemies.

Defense: DE Antwaun Powell-Ryland may be as good as the top DE in the B1G. Powell-Ryland was the D-line for the Hokies last year and finished with 9.5 sacks. HC Brent Pry was so concerned with the inconsistent play of the D-line Pry dipped in the transfer portal for 3 defensive tackles to help free up Powell-Ryland and make him more effective. Another impact player for the Hokies is CB Dorian Strong. He set career highs in tackles, pass breakups, and inceptions. Strong is the Hokies best overall secondary player. The strength of the defense is along the D-line and secondary.

Overall: While Virginia Tech's stats may make them look good against the pass, the truth is that teams often exploited their run defense. Adding the D-line transfers could be the missing ingredient that the Hokies need to balance their defense and complement their offense. Although Strong leads a 'solid' secondary, the unit still has questions to answer, just like the D-line. The fact that Virginia Tech replaces their MLB with a transfer from Middle Tenn. indicates that the middle of the defense remains a concern. The middle of the defense looks good but it is a little undersized and relies on quickness to defeat size and strength.
Well done WOW a write up from someone who actually played the game. What a breath of fresh air compared to what we are used to around here.
 

RU in IM

All-Conference
Nov 3, 2011
2,672
2,131
113
Hey guys, beaced here. Was going to post a pic of me at 98 years seven months but not able to do it at this time. We'll try for the future. In the meantime thank you all for being the good guys you are. Eagerly waiting for the first game to start. Will try to read and be able to respond to posts in the future. Have a good rest of the summer. Talk to you guys soon.
Tommy A. here. Great to read another post from the legend. We are not far away (next September) from the 40 year anniversary of the tie at the Swamp. I recall you saying that you were at that game and that you have vivid memories of the ending.
 

GoodOl'Rutgers

Heisman
Sep 11, 2006
123,974
19,584
0
I'm going to have to rewatch last year's VTech game soon. That was a fun one.

I liked reading @cubuffsdoug doug summary of things. When I watch teh game I will be thinking about what VTech might take away from that game and what they might focus on. The new DTs mentioned by cubuffsdoug is probably the main thing. Stop the run game.

So, I think it will come down to our new QB and if his arm can keep the D honest. I pray we can complete effective screen passes this season. I think we will need them with run-blitzes heading our way early and often to get Monangai before he gets going.
 
Jan 27, 2005
16,637
12,160
103
This game will be an exciting and competitive matchup. Both teams should are coming off strong performances in their previous games and will be looking to secure a victory to further solidify their standing in the college football landscape.

Rutgers Football has shown significant improvement in recent years. The Scarlet Knights have a strong defense that has been able to shut down opposing offenses and create turnovers. Rutgers' strength lies in their physicality and discipline on both sides of the ball.

However, Rutgers does have some weaknesses that Virginia Tech can potentially exploit. The Scarlet Knights have struggled at times with consistency on offense, particularly in the passing game. Their offensive line has also been susceptible to pressure from opposing defenses, which could be an area that Virginia Tech looks to exploit. Additionally, Rutgers' defense has shown vulnerabilities against the run, which could be an area that the Hokies look to exploit.

Virginia Tech, on the other hand, has a potent offense led by a talented quarterback and a strong group of playmakers. The Hokies have been able to move the ball effectively through the air and on the ground, putting up big numbers on the scoreboard. Their defense has also been solid, with a strong pass rush and a secondary that can create turnovers.

However, Virginia Tech does have some weaknesses that Rutgers could look to exploit. The Hokies have shown vulnerability against teams with strong defensive fronts, struggling at times to protect their quarterback and establish a consistent running game. Their defense has also shown susceptibility to big plays, which could be an area that Rutgers looks to exploit.

In order to secure a victory, Rutgers will need to establish a balanced offensive attack and control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. They will need to limit turnovers and capitalize on opportunities when they arise. Defensively, Rutgers will need to contain Virginia Tech's explosive offense and force turnovers to give their offense good field position.

On the other hand, Virginia Tech will need to establish a strong running game to keep Rutgers' defense off balance and open up opportunities in the passing game. They will need to protect their quarterback and limit mistakes that could give Rutgers momentum. Defensively, the Hokies will need to pressure Rutgers' quarterback and create turnovers to give their offense good field position.

Overall, this matchup between Rutgers Football and Virginia Tech promises to be a thrilling and closely contested game. Both teams have strengths and weaknesses that they will need to navigate in order to secure a victory. It will come down to execution, game planning, and who can make the big plays when it matters most. Fans can expect a hard-fought battle between two talented teams looking to make a statement on the national stage.
 
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Jun 7, 2001
34,171
41,612
113
This game will be an exciting and competitive matchup. Both teams should are coming off strong performances in their previous games and will be looking to secure a victory to further solidify their standing in the college football landscape.

Rutgers Football has shown significant improvement in recent years. The Scarlet Knights have a strong defense that has been able to shut down opposing offenses and create turnovers. Rutgers' strength lies in their physicality and discipline on both sides of the ball.

However, Rutgers does have some weaknesses that Virginia Tech can potentially exploit. The Scarlet Knights have struggled at times with consistency on offense, particularly in the passing game. Their offensive line has also been susceptible to pressure from opposing defenses, which could be an area that Virginia Tech looks to exploit. Additionally, Rutgers' defense has shown vulnerabilities against the run, which could be an area that the Hokies look to exploit.

Virginia Tech, on the other hand, has a potent offense led by a talented quarterback and a strong group of playmakers. The Hokies have been able to move the ball effectively through the air and on the ground, putting up big numbers on the scoreboard. Their defense has also been solid, with a strong pass rush and a secondary that can create turnovers.

However, Virginia Tech does have some weaknesses that Rutgers could look to exploit. The Hokies have shown vulnerability against teams with strong defensive fronts, struggling at times to protect their quarterback and establish a consistent running game. Their defense has also shown susceptibility to big plays, which could be an area that Rutgers looks to exploit.

In order to secure a victory, Rutgers will need to establish a balanced offensive attack and control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. They will need to limit turnovers and capitalize on opportunities when they arise. Defensively, Rutgers will need to contain Virginia Tech's explosive offense and force turnovers to give their offense good field position.

On the other hand, Virginia Tech will need to establish a strong running game to keep Rutgers' defense off balance and open up opportunities in the passing game. They will need to protect their quarterback and limit mistakes that could give Rutgers momentum. Defensively, the Hokies will need to pressure Rutgers' quarterback and create turnovers to give their offense good field position.

Overall, this matchup between Rutgers Football and Virginia Tech promises to be a thrilling and closely contested game. Both teams have strengths and weaknesses that they will need to navigate in order to secure a victory. It will come down to execution, game planning, and who can make the big plays when it matters most. Fans can expect a hard-fought battle between two talented teams looking to make a statement on the national stage.
ChatGPT?
 

zappaa

Heisman
Jul 27, 2001
73,350
89,457
103
Our defense is going to have its hands full, that’s for sure.
They have a three pronged attack capable of hurting you at every level.
On 3rd and long, even initial pressure and perfect coverage can result in a chunk run late by Drones.
 
Last edited:

Knight Shift

Heisman
May 19, 2011
85,281
82,773
113
Our defense is going to have its hands full, that’s for sure.
They have a three pronged attack capable of hurting you at every level.
On 3rd and long, even initial pressure and perfect coverage can result in chunk run late by Drones.
Mobile QBs have long been a headache for Rutgers defenses. The Dark Side needs to contain Drones.
 
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