The final game of the year has become the most frustrating to Virginia fans. Virginia Tech has won 11 straight games in the series after all. The Cavaliers came close to ending the streak last season, taking the lead in the final three minutes last season. Tech, however, completed a 50-yard bomb and scored a nine-yard touchdown pass to pull of the comeback. That rally extended the Hokies’ bowl streak to 22 years, while simultaneously sending to its third straight offseason without a bowl. After Friday night’s game last season, the showdown is back on Saturday in 2015.

Virginia Tech Peek

• Head Coach (record at school): Frank Beamer (231-115-2)
• 2014 Record: 7-6
• Offense 2014 Total Yards/Game (National ranking): 365.3 (99th)
• Offense 2014 Points/Game: 24.1 (96th)
• Defense 2014 Total Yards/Game: 343.8 (21st)
• Defense 2014 Points/Game: 20.2 (14th)

What To Expect On Game Day

Offense: Virginia Tech builds around the run. During Frank Beamer’s tenure, the Hokies are 201- 42-2 when outrushing their opponents and only 29-73 when being outrushed. An experienced offensive group will try to establish the run and then go for big scores in 2015. Every single Hokie who scored a point last season returns in 2015.

Three different running backs had 100-yard games last season. J.C. Coleman and Marshawn Williams had two each, while Shai McKenzie had one. Williams could redshirt this season after an ACL tear late last year. Coleman is expected to be the lead back coming out of camp, while redshirt junior Trey Edmunds returns from injury as an option too. Coleman finished the season with four strong outings and led the team in rushing with 533 yards.

The passing game also has experienced players in the fold. Tight end Bucky Hodges emerged as a top playmaker in 2014 when he caught seven touchdown passes, a single-season record at VT. That included the go-ahead touchdown against Virginia. Receivers Isaiah Ford and Cam Phillips played well as freshmen. Ford logged 56 passes (led the team), 709 yards, and six touchdowns. Phillips finished with 40 catches for 498 yards and three TDs. Redshirt seniors Demitri Knowles, a receiver, and Ryan Malleck, a tight end, are also options through the air.

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