BLACKSBURG, Va –– For Virginia Tech, today’s season-opening matchup against NC State is a welcome sight for fans and players alike. This game was originally slated for September 12th before the Wolfpack were forced to postpone due to COVID-19 related issues within the program.
Following the postponement, Virginia Tech was set to take on in-state rival Virginia before its own issues with COVID forced the Commonwealth Cup matchup to be postponed to December 12th.
The Hokies will finally take the field tonight (8 PM, ACC Network), and will look to incorporate new pieces on the offense including transfer quarterback Braxton Burmeister, running back Khalil Herbert, and all-around threat Raheem Blackshear. Hendon Hooker was named the starting QB on September 9 but Burmeister will likely see significant action tonight. Burmeister has received heaps of praise during his time in Blacksburg while sitting out last year as a transfer from Oregon.
Despite the rave reviews for Burmeister, it would be great to see Hooker on the field amidst questions about his availability for tonight’s game.
New defensive coordinator Justin Hamilton will have his work cut out for him against an offense that scored 45 points in a shootout against Wake Forest last week. The Wolfpack did the vast majority of their damage in the ground game against the Demon Deacons. Expect several true freshmen, especially Keonta Jenkins, to be contributors in Hamilton’s defense tonight.
With numerous changes and uncertainty within Virginia Tech’s defense, it’s easy to envision another track meet for the Wolfpack. Their defense allowed 42 points last week and the Hokies should present even more challenges for that unit than Wake Forest did.
Despite all the uncertainty. It’s an exciting feeling knowing that it’s gameday in Blacksburg.
