After one of the most impressive overall performances in recent memory against the resurgent Miami Hurricanes, Virginia Tech goes on the road to face an improving Duke football program. The Hokies excelled in all phases of the game last week, and the expectations of the Hokie Nation have been renewed as Tech vaulted to #6 in the nation in all polls. So, what should we expect from the Duke Blue Devils as the Hokies face their first ACC road contest of the season?
Last year the Blue Devils battled the Hokies on a cold, blustery day in November with Macho Harris returning an interception for a touchdown late in the game to seal the victory, 14-3. Tyrod Taylor suffered his worst performance as a Hokie with five first-half turnovers, but Bud Foster's stingy defense kept Duke out of the end zone. The Blue Devils played last year without starting quarterback Thaddeus Lewis (#9, 6-1.5, 215, 4.90, Sr.), instead going with a spread-option attack lead by Zack Asack. Duke had some success on the ground, but the Devils had no passing game and became one-dimensional on offense. In the end, Tech's offense was able to control the ball via the power running game and some timely passing, and the overall key to this game will likely be ball control once again.