498 to 155--that contrast of numbers shows how the Tide dominated the Hokies last night. But that statistical dominance didn't translate to final point total dominance until the fourth quarter rolled around.
With the Alabama offense given a short field and unable to convert on third downs early on, they settled for field goal tries in the first half while Beamer ball happened when the VT kick returner ran for a 98-yard score.
The Tide D was stout and swarming with the exception of about three plays. When VT was in third and long situations, white shirts swarmed Tyrod Taylor and made him look like an inexperienced QB.
During the first three quarters, the Alabama offense featured its own inexperienced QB, Greg McElroy, who withstood the onslaught of a very good Hokie D. After finally getting past locking on no. 8, he found other receivers--Hanks, Maze, and Peek-- to catch the pill. In fact, I think Peek, if he stays healthy, could be a primary receiver for this team like they used the two senior TEs last season.
The big difference was that the offensive line, which had three new starters, began to gel at the end of the game, so the running attack figured prominently with Ingram and Upchurch bringing some pain for Hokie fans.
So it's two straight seasons starting out with a win in Atlanta against an ACC foe. And it's time to move one to face Florida International on Saturday.
Click HERE if you're interested in a Hokie's view of the game.
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