Vanderbilt at Virginia Tech Preview
Vanderbilt enters its matchup with Virginia Tech looking to assert control on both sides of the ball. The Hokies bring a talented but inconsistent offense and a defense that spreads production across multiple positions, with their defensive line carrying the potential to disrupt the pocket.
Virginia Tech Offense: Searching for Consistency
Quarterback Kyron Drones threw for 221 yards but also tossed two interceptions, finishing with a 42.9% completion rate. While PFF graded him at 71.1, turnovers and inefficiency stalled drives. His connection with wideouts Donavon Greene, Ayden Greene, and Isaiah Spencer gives the Hokies explosive potential, setting up a tough challenge for Vanderbilt’s secondary.
On the ground, Virginia Tech managed just 115 yards on 37 carries (3.1 YPC), with no touchdowns. Running back Marcellous Hawkins led with 58 yards, but the unit lacked any explosive runs.
The offensive line was the most glaring weakness, earning a 47.16 pass protection grade according to PFF, despite facing a South Carolina defense that did not have a pass rusher with a grade higher than 73. If Vanderbilt can create pressure, Drones may again struggle to protect the football.
Virginia Tech Defense: Balanced but Needs Disruption
Virginia Tech’s defense featured multiple contributors across the board. Safety Quentin Reddish paced the unit with eight tackles, while linebackers Caleb Woodson and Michael Short provided steadiness. Up front, Kemari Copeland was particularly active, tallying five tackles with a half-sack, and fellow linemen Elhadj Fall and Emmett Laws added sacks of their own.
Even so, the Hokies did not record an interception and forced just one fumble. They showed sound tackling in space but lacked consistent game-changing plays.
The Key Test: Vanderbilt’s Offensive Line
For Vanderbilt, much of the outcome may hinge on the trenches. The Commodores’ offensive line will need to provide stronger pass protection than in recent outings. Virginia Tech’s front, led by Kemari Copeland, is capable of generating pressure even without gaudy sack totals. If Vanderbilt’s line can neutralize that pressure, it will open up opportunities for their passing game to exploit a Hokies secondary that has yet to force a turnover this season.
Matchups to Watch
- Vanderbilt WRs vs. Virginia Tech secondary: With no interceptions yet, the Hokies’ defensive backs have room to prove they can contain playmakers.
- Pass protection battle: Vanderbilt’s offensive line must hold up against Copeland and company to keep its offense balanced.
- Turnovers: Virginia Tech’s defense hasn’t produced takeaways, but if they do, it could keep them competitive.
Prediction
Virginia Tech’s wide receiver trio presents a challenge, and their defensive line features players like Copeland, who can pressure the quarterback. Still, with an inconsistent passing game, a run game averaging just 3.1 yards per carry, and a defense that has yet to prove disruptive, the Hokies face their second SEC opponent of the season with more questions than answers. If Vanderbilt shores up its protection and limits explosive plays, the Commodores are well-positioned to control the matchup.
