VT-USC: What Did We Learn?
Number 1 Southern Cal beat Virginia Tech 24-13 Saturday night in Landover, MD, in a game far more competitive than many expected. So what did we learn from this first game of the season?
- The kids are alright
Out of 75 players dressed for the game, 24 were freshmen, and some played key roles: WR Josh Hyman, WR/KR Eddie Royal, LBs Vince Hall and Xavier Adibi (before Adibi tore a bicep, a probable season-ending injury), and kickoff man Jared Develli. All acquitted themselves well, which bodes well for the coming years. - We might have a placekicker
Last year, the kicking game was a struggle. Then-senior Carter Warley never really recovered from his sophomore year back troubles, and every so often replacements were tried out: Jon Mollerup, Brandon Pace, Nic Schmitt, none of whom distinguished themselves. This year, sophomore Brandon Pace secured a starting spot in the preseason and hit two nice field goals Saturday night. It’s a little early to get excited, but the indications so far are good. - The defensive line is scary good
The VT front four absolutely dominated USC’s young offensive line. This and the defensive backfield are perhaps the only units that aren’t young on this Hokie team, and the return of Jim Davis solidifies an already good group here. - We have tight ends
Tight end has usually been an afterthought in VT’s offense, but Jeff King ran wild on Saturday, catching four balls for 65 yards that made him VT’s leading receiver; Jared Mazzetta tacked on another 22-yard reception. - Referees hate us
‘Nuff said.
What do you think? Let’s hear it.
31 August 2004 / 5 Comments / Tags: football