SIR: ESPN round table discussion re: VT (pre-pre season # 19)

[AXD1985]

Couple of interesting stats. 119-12 when we out rush the other team. Also, we had 114 negative plays. That's over 8 a game. Definitely drive killers when you average 2 per quarter. The panel mentions everything we don't have, but we do have some experience coming back too. 3 of the OL played considerably last year, along with Marcus Davis and
DJ Coles, whom I expect to be very solid. We'll be running back by committee, at least early, but when was the last time we didn't have productive RBs. The point they make about coaching continuity is huge. They will find a way to get it done IMO. Oh yeah, and there's Logan Thomas, who I feel will make everyone around him much better too.

Does the negative plays include sacks?

[NNVT]

Clemson-Miami-FSU along with UNC makes me nervous as well.

[kchokie]

I think it would have to.

[NNVT]

Agree with you on the Oline, keeping fingers crossed at least.

[TechHokie13]

Also, a good number of those was DW doing his little "never-let-the-play-die-reverse-field-5-times-and-hope-for-the-best" thing, with varying degrees of success (see Clemson #1 and Michigan *cringe*).

[TechHokie13]

With the likely exception of Clemson, FSU and UNC (and possibly Miami as well), we should be able to just bash everyone else's d-line into submission with Wang-Miller-Benedict, plus LT3 and a Scales/Holmes/Harris-type back. Drive block, punish the defense with a battering-ram runner, rinse and repeat.

[NNVT]

Still think Clemson beats FSU. Can't believe WF has FSU number for so long either.

[NNVT]

Agree except Cin might score some, GT is a thorn to VT so they will score, and I am hoping VT crushes and does not struggle with Pitt.

[TechHokie13]

If there's any game we'd be fine with Tyler instead of Bruce, it'd be the GT game. He was an absolute beast last year in that game. I honestly hope Tweedy or RVD can hold down the whip position. JGW's solid, but those guys are just fun to watch. So long as Edwards recovers well from surgery, I see no reason he won't be ready to go in August.

[NNVT]

Edwards is the one I think might have a hard time being back in time for GT wonder if he would play Tyler or Williams in his place.