GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Virginia Tech racked up 305 rushing yards against William & Mary, the highest total of the Justin Fuente era, in its most recent game. This week’s foe, Old Dominion, should provide more resistance, but it would be still be disappointing if the Hokies didn’t dominate up front. Two weeks ago, Steven Peoples helped lead the ground game with two scores and 99 yards, while DeShawn McClease has added one score and 121 yards rushing.
For the ODU defense, watch for sophomore linebacker Lawrence Garner, who has recorded double-digit tackles in all three games and ranks second in the country with 42 tackles.
DRAFT SLANT
–DT Ricky Walker is more than just a run-stuff interior lineman, as he is noted for putting pressure on the quarterback, pushing his 300 pounds into the backfield. The intangibles are there, too — as coach Justin Fuente will praise Walker’s leadership — which will help as Walker fights for draft positioning. He began the season as a late-round prospect. He has two tackles, including one for loss, this season.
ROSTER REPORT
–LB Alan Tisdale was going to be “put on the shelf” and miss his true freshman season due to unspecified surgery, defensive coordinator Bud Foster said.
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