Virginia Tech Hokies: Road to Turning Around Misfortune

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#10 Virginia Tech Hokies (4-1, 2-0) vs. Hawai'i Warriors (1-3)

(AP) Honolulu, HI - #14 Spain's 492 yards passing wasn't enough for the Warriors as the Hokies survived a scare on the little big island

The Hokies returned to Hawai'i for the 2nd year in a row, after they blasted the Warriors to finish off their season in 2012. The Warriors were poised to play the part of the spoiler, as they had Spain back at quarterback, who is leading the #7 rated passing attack in all of college football. On the other hand, freshman quarterback Brandon Reid was looking for his 3rd straight victory as the starting quarterback for the Hokies since taking over after Trey Gresh failed to produce mediocre results.

Game Re-Cap
This game started off abruptly after Warriors elected to receive the ball to begin the game, and Spain comes out on the field after the touchback. Hokie Nation was nervous, because for the last 2 years, they have struggled tremendously against strong passing attacks. Let's just say, they had a reason to be nervous. Spain started out the game with guns blazing, and after 2 successful passes and a first down, he connects with his primary target McClain on a 63 yard bomb before he is tripped up near the goal line by Antone Exum. The Hokies defense comes up strong, holding them to three and out, and their kicker comes in and knocks in the field goal to go up by 3 - Warriors 3, Hokies 0.

The Hokies, answering right back, take to the field and waste no time putting the ball in the hands of their playmaker, and after a first down gain by Brian Matthews, Brandon Reid calls his own number on this pass play that breaks down quickly:



EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


Brandon Reid's 44 yard rush to put the Hokies in scoring position

A few plays later, Reid connects with his new found main target Nubian Peak on a slant - Hokies 7, Warriors 3.

On the ensuing possession, Spain ignores the momentum and excitement by the Hokies, and connects with yet another huge bomb this time to his other receiver Dahl for a 54 yard gain down into Hokie territory. In the first quarter, in only 2 drives, Spain has went over 100 yards passing. In scoring position, Spain drops back and connects an underneath pass, but impact linebacker Lawrence Thompson decided that it wasn't going to happen in his zone:



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Lawrence Thompson with the huge hit and forced fumble, recovered by freshman Kevin Logan - Hokies 7, Warriors 3.

After the fumble, the Hokies come out and get a short gain with Brian Matthews, and then follow it up with Reid running the option attack like he does best. He calls his own number instead of pitching it to Greg Arnold, and he said Aloha Warriors!!!



EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


72 yard option-keeper by Brandon Reid - Hokies 14, Warriors 3.

In the 1st quarter, Spain has thrown for over 100 yards, but Brandon Reid has matched his performance with his feet as he has put up over 110 yards rushing.

Spain piles on the passing yardage yet again, as he works his offense down the field and they knock in a field goal to make it Hokies 14, Warriors 6. After a three and out, Spain gets the ball, and unbelievably connects with yet another big pass play, and his receiver is stopped short of field goal range, and a splash is shown that Spain has went 7 of 14 for 205 yards in the FIRST QUARTER. The first comes to an end, and the announcers proclaim that we have a potentially great game on our hands.

The Hokies offense stonewalls, and begins to play mistake football, as they rack up incompletion after incompletion as the Hokies receivers struggle to help out their quarterback. The running game is shut down, and the Warriors are here to play.

The Hokies end up scoring after Reid connects with senior Logan Thomas on a big touchdown pass near the goal line where he runs over 3 defenders, and we go to half time 21-6, Hokies advantage.

Erin - "Coach Foster, how do you feel about your team in the first half, and what are your plans for the second half?"

Foster - "Not good enough! We are not getting it done like should be. Our lack of focus, whether it be jet lag or something else, is inexcusable. We are dropping wide open passes, Reid is forced into pressure throws because of the lack of blocking, and our running game has been grounded. If they force us to become one dimensional, we will lose this ball game. Spain is not the type of qb that you want to leave in the game, and he's piled up 300 yards in the first half alone. Our secondary is going to be the focus in the 2nd half. We have got to stop the pass. Reid has made some big plays for us, and if it wasn't for him, we wouldn't be in this ball game."

Erin - "Thank you for your time Coach Foster, and good luck to you and your team in the second half."

The 3rd quarter started up the same way the 2nd ended, as the Hokies simply cannot complete passes. Reid is running for his life out there, and his receivers are not helping him out as almost ever pass hits the ground. The pressure is on the running game, and it is simply not getting it done. The 3rd is back and forth, but finally Reid connects with Logan Thomas on a delayed route and he walks into the endzone - Hokies 28, Warriors 6.

The Warriors end up knocking in 2 more field goals, and Spain eclipses the 400 yard mark in passing - a phenomenal performance by the senior - Hokies 28, Warriors 12.

Brian Matthews ends up punching in a score from a few yards out, and the Hokies take their lead into the 4th quarter, Hokies 35, Warriors 12.

Warriors start out the 4th quarter with a bang as they work methodically down the field, and on 4th down, Spain connects with Dahl for the touchdown, their first of the game. They go for 2, but Hokies shut them down, Hokies 35, Warriors 18.

Hokies try to work the clock, but Warriors defense denies them, as they force a turnover deep in Hokie territory as Reid is intercepted for the first time in his career. Warriors with momentum and the ball, try to score right out of the gates. Spain puts up a endzone-heave as Gayle closes in on him, and the ball is headed for an open receiver in the corner, but all american Lee Anderson picks it off, his 5th on the season! Hokies run some more clock before getting stopped with around 4 left in the game. Warriors must score on their next possession to give themselves a chance. On 4th down, Hokies punt the ball deep, but senior Jerrod Williams has other plans:



EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


Williams huge hit to force the fumble, and Kyle Fuller picks it up and returns it for a touchdown, slamming the gate on the Warrior's chances at coming back - Hokies 42, Warriors 18.

Warriors get the ball but are unable to muster anything, and punt the ball to the Hokies. Hokies run some clock, but it appears if Foster has been frustrated with his passing attack, as he never lifts his foot off the throttle, and Reid connects with this touchdown pass to Nubian Peak:



EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


12 yard touchdown pass to Nubian Peak as the clock winds down, Reid's 3rd td pass of the day - Hokies 49, Warriors 18.

Play of the Game: Reid's 72 yard touchdown option keeper in 1st quarter

Player of the Game: Brandon Reid: 7 of 27 158 yards 3 tds, 1 int. 12 carries 160 yards 1 td

Stats
Reid: 7 - 27 158 yards 3 tds, 1 int; 12 carries 160 yards 1 td
Matthews: 20 carries 83 yards 1 td
Hooper: 11 carries 56 yards
Gayle: 5 tackles, 3 sacks - he has 14 sacks on the season, and 10 in the past 2 games

Spain: 28 - 60 492 yards 1 td, 1 int

Next-up: Hokies finally return home to Blacksburg for homecoming against ACC opponent Maryland - only their 2nd home game of the season.

News
-Hokies have moved up to #9 in the AP polls after the Spartans upset #1 Michigan in Ann Arbor

-Frank Beamer opened the season with 2 losses with his Fighting Irish, but has sense rattled off 3 victories including a thrilling 34-31 victory over USC. It appears Beamer has sent a message to the Hokies, as the Hokies were unable to knock off USC, but the Irish were under the direction of Frank Beamer. We might have a sort of friendly rivalry shaping up between the 2 programs. The game at the end of the season will be a barn burner!

-Alabama is ranked #1 and Ohio State is #2 currently. Both programs are en-route to the title game as neither have any standout challenges infront of them. Ohio State does have a date in November with #5 Michigan, however.

-Coach Foster benched safety Ryan Caldwell after a POOR performance against Hawai'i and 5* sophomore safety Ty Lopez will get the start against Maryland.

-This was crazy, but I have been tweaking my sliders and i adjusted hawaii's coaching sliders before hte game so they was pass happy like they are in real life. Spain threw it 60 times total and got 492 yards passing...so freaking realistic. It was a freaking fun game to see them play like real life counterparts.

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(AP) Blacksburg, VA - The Maryland Terrapins traveled to Blacksburg, VA and get whalloped for homecoming by the surging Virginia Tech Hokies in ACC Conference play.

The #9 Hokies (5-1, 2-0) finally return back home after not having a home game since the 2nd game of the season for their homecoming and the "maroon effect." 68,000 strong showed up decked out in all maroon and were anxious to seetheir new QB Brandon Reid in action at home for the first time, and they were not let down. In an outstanding performance that will go down in Virginia Tech history, Brandon Reid finished 21 of 40 387 yards with 3 touchdowns, and tacked on 16 carries for 73 yards and 3 more touchdowns as the Hokies "gobble up" the Terrapins, 58-13. Foster stepped up this week and challenged both his receivers and his qb after his 7 of 27 performance just a week ago in Hawai'i.

Foster - "This week in practice, I told each of these players to look themselves in the mirror, and ask themselves if they were happy with what they saw. We ended up winning the game, but if we were to continue on that path, our luck would run out quickly. We have been playing mistake football, and it's going to take 110% from every guy in that locker room to keep winning. They responded to my challenge early in the week, as they were fired up in practice and started getting after it. That is the fire that I have been waiting for, and we need that to carry out this season and to get to where we wanna go - the ACC Championship game. It all started tonight with this game against Maryland, and I feel like they all played their hearts out. We have a special group of young men, and they are all starting to come around. Reid had a stellar day, and I could not be more proud of how he responded. But let's not forget the unsung hero, Logan Thomas as he absolutely changed the game (9 receptions 242 yards 2 touchdowns), and had a career day. My hat goes off to our defense as well as we finally kept an offense below 300 total yards - something I have been setting as a goal each week for our defense.

Tonight we celebrate the victory, but Monday morning, we are back in the film room correcting our mistakes because we have the defending ACC Champs coming to town in a rivalry contest, and I am predicting a loss for the Eagles. We have had the article pinned up in the locker room since last December when the Eagles defeated us: "SHINSKIE AND THE EAGLES POUNCE ON THE HOKIES TO BECOME ACC CHAMPIONS." It is a constant reminder that we had the perfect season in our hands, and we let it slip away. This is the game that we have had circled on our calendars, and we finally get our revenge this week. Execution will be vital, but we will have a little bit of fueled hatred behind that execution, and we will be ready."

Highlights:

http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/50607614
Brandon Reid connects with Logan Thomas on a 71 yard touchdown strike to break the 0-0 deadlock in the first quarter - Hokies 7, Terrapins 0. (excuse the hitch in the video, my game did the random slight hesitation glitch)


http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/50607889
Reid connects with Logan Thomas again for their 2nd touchdown connection to increase the Hokies' lead to 17-0 in the 1st quarter.


http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/50608070
41 yard touchdown by Adams (fastest running back in the nation) as he carves the Hokies' defense apart on the Terrapins ensuing possession. This was only one of very few positive plays for Maryland - 17-7


http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/50608712
Reid connects with Brady Wright for only his 2nd reception of the season, which is coincidentally his 2nd touchdown before half time - Hokies 31, Terrpains 7.


http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/50609083
Maryland's only other positive play on the day as Reid tries to evade the pressure and tracks his open receiver going towards the pylon, but he doesn't see the end behind him and gets crushed and the ball falls into the lap of a Maryland linebacker, and he takes it the distance - Hokies 31, Maryland 13.

Play of the Game: Reid's 71 yard touchdown pass in 1st quarter to Logan Thomas

Player(s) of the Game:
-Reid 21 - 40, 387 yards 3 tds; 16 carries 73 yards 3 touchdowns
-Thomas 9 receptions 242 yards 2 touchdowns

Stats
-Reid 21 - 40, 387 yards 3 tds; 16 carries 73 yards 3 touchdowns
-Matthews 20 carries 113 yards 1 td
-Thomas 9 receptions 242 yards 2 touchdowns
-Hokie defense: allowed only 174 yards passing, 83 yards rushing on the ground, 2 sacks, and 1 fumble

Notes
-Last week, Foster benched Ryan Caldwell, his once shutdown safety that has been giving up huge gains through the air in the passing game. His decision proved to be the right one, as Ty Lopez had 4 passes defended, 6 tackles, and provided amazing coverage both deep and underneath. This will be a player we will have to keep our eyes on.

-The Ends: McCray and Gayle were mostly quiet on the evening after piling up over 23 sacks on the season combined thus far, and only Gayle was able to get a single sack against Maryland. The pressure they did provide, though, helped the secondary out as there were some erratic throws.


Next-up: #17 Boston College (4-1, 1-1) travel to Blacksburg to take on the #9 Hokies (6-1, 3-0) in a re-match from the ACC Championship last december. This has quickly become one of the most heated rivalries in the ACC, and should decide which team will represent their respective divisions within the conference in the championship game. #22 Miami Hurricanes are lurking, though, so the Hokies must not overlook any remaining game on their schedule.

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__________________________________________________ _____
vs.
#9 Virginia Tech Hokies____________#17 Boston College Eagles

Presented By - Reeses Peanut Butter Cups

Only on: ESPN

Corso Picks: Boston College_______________Herbstreit Picks: Virginia Tech

The #17 Boston College Eagles (4-2, 2-2) travel to Blacksburg, VA to take on the #9 Virginia Tech Hokies (6-1, 3-0). This will be the first meeting between the two teams with Bud Foster as the head coach. He is taking off where Beamer left over, and is feeling some bad blood from this game last year. The Hokies defeated the Eagles in overtime in their first in-season meeting.* But it was Boston College that got the last laugh as they defeated the Hokies in the ACC Championship game, and kept the Hokies from reaching the National Championship Game.** Their is some bad blood between these two schools, and Foster has used the loss to Boston College in the ACC Championship Game last december to get his players fired up, and focused on moving forward and winning this ball game.

The Eagles are trying to make it 2 victories in a row, and trying to reverse their luck in Blacksburg. The Hokies have won the last 8 meetings in Blacksburg against the Eagles. Boston College lost both Shinskie and Mascovedtra due to graduation in the offseason, and all of the load falls directly on the shoulders of youth in their program to keep this momentum going from the last 2 seasons. This game holds important ramifications for the ACC Conference Race as well.

This game is shaping up to be a barn-burner, and will be Brandon Reid's first real true test as quarterback of the Hokies. Will the Hokies be able to continue on their win streak and make it 7, or will they succumb to the momentum that Boston College has gained after their big victory last December? Coach Bud Foster has already went on the record, and claimed that he predicts a loss for the visiting Eagles. This is a bolt statement, but the question is, will this become reality? Tune in and find out!

*http://www.operationsports.com/forum...8-post721.html - (VT vs. BC - game 1)
**http://www.operationsports.com/forum...0-post822.html - (VT vs. BC - game 2)

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(AP) Blacksburg, VA - The #17 Boston College Eagles traveled to Blacksburg to take on the #9 Virginia Tech Hokies in an ACC Rivalry Showdown

The defending ACC champions (BC - 4-2, 2-2) came to town yesterday evening to take on the surging Virginia Tech Hokies (6-1, 3-0) as they have won 6 straight games coming into this showdown. The Hokies were out for revenge led by Coach Foster who claimed that he put the newspaper article throughout the locker room and through out each workout station in their field house for motivation coming into this season : "SHINSKIE AND THE EAGLES POUNCE ON THE HOKIES TO BECOME ACC CHAMPIONS." Their is some bad blood in this rivalry after the Hokies defense injured Shinskie twice last season in both meetings, and in their first meeting, the Hokies stole a win against BC in overtime and ended the Eagles perfect season. It was BC who got the last laugh, though, after they come out and dominated the Hokies and returned the favor in ending their perfect season and keeping them from the National Championship game. It is no secret that Foster has had this game circled on his calendar since he took over as head coach, and that hatred fueled their performance in this game.

Re-Cap
It was obvious from the start of the game that it was going to be an up-hill climb for the Eagles. They were without their impact linebacker who is tops in the nation in tackles, and they were without their starting quarterback (82 overall). The Hokies take advantage of the situation, and come out head strong in the first half and jump out to a 10-0 lead in the 1st, proving that they are the more powerful team. They increase the lead to 17-0 with 4 minutes in the 2nd quarter after this huge interception by all american Lee Anderson after junior Chase Rettig tried to force it in there, as Lee picked up his 6th inteception of the season and leads the nation in interceptions.

http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/51297107


This was a physical game throughout, as the Hokies hurt 5 different players on the afternoon. Boston College did not back down though as they provided some huge tackles as well.

Halftime

The first half ended quietly, as the Hokies take the advantage 20-6 going into the locker room.

Coach Foster clearly expressed his enthusiasm in this game, and was pumped up that his players were playing so physically. He was interviewed by our own Erin Andrews after the 1st half, and Foster said that they'd have to continue the phyisicality and work on execution in the 2nd half if they want to win this game, because Boston College is a team known for their 2nd half come backs.

3rd Quarter
The physicality and brutality continued well into the 3rd quarter from both sides, as Boston College was finally able to stone-wall Brandon Reid (12-27 146 yards 1 td, 1 int - 11 carries 88 yards 1 td), and started getting their offense going. On a methodical drive led by the arm of Rettig, and the feet of Williams, BC could seemingly not be stopped and pushed right down the field on the Hokies to mid field after starting the drive on their own 4 yard line. Near midfield, Boston College lines up, and Rettig connects with Williams on a screen play. This play right here pretty much sums up what was said earlier about this being such a physical hard hitting game. Williams get's lit up on this screen pass:

http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/51299231

Boston College responds, however, as this drive gets pushed down to the 2 yard line, and with the score 20 to 6 on 4th down, Rettig comes out, and does a playaction, he is hit but dumps the ball off in time, and his tight end catches the ball and falls in the endzone, touchdown BC and they had some life - Hokies 20, Boston College 13. Hokies end up knocking in a field goal as the quarter expired - Hokies 23, Boston College 13.

4th Quarter
Boston College gets the ball back looking to cut the score closer, but are not able to do anything and they had to punt. Hokies get the ball, but they can not muster anything themselves and are forced to punt after milking the clock. Boston College gets the ball back, but they too are unable to come up with any points again. The Hokies get the ball back but their drive fizzles out, and here come the Eagles as we have seen them do so many times before against the Hokies. They work right down the field on this Hokies defense, and look poised to score and shut this Blacksburg crowd up. Boston College gets into Hokie territory, but they are just outside of field goal range as Hokie defense steps up and forces them to a 4th and 10 from the 40 yard line with just over 3 minutes left. Rettig takes the the snap, looks left, and:

http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/51300582

freshman Kevin Logan grabs the pick, his first of his career, and returns it 60 yards untouched for a touchdown, and the Hokies extend their lead to 30 to 13 with only 3 minutes left in the ball game.

Boston College gets the ball back, and with no chances of scoring 3 times in 3 minutes, they are shut down by the Hokie secondary after pressure comes from the end position with McCray and Gayle, and they punt the ball back to the Hokies. Building on to that hatred that Foster has already built up for the Eagles, the Hokies do not lift their foot off the throttle as they keep pushing down the field and keep trying to score to add further insult to injury. It appears Foster is trying to send a clear message that this team means business. With just over a minute to go, Brandon Reid starts passing the ball at will, and finally connects with his senior DJ Coles on this drag route for a touchdown:

http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/51302071

Hokies 37, Eagles 13. On the ensuing kickoff, Jackson puts the ball deep in the endzone, but senior impact player Clyde Lee decides to return it out of the endzone, but later regrets it as he gets absolutely wrecked by the Hokies special teams, and Quinton Massey grabs the loose ball and the Hokies have the ball yet again.

http://www.easports.com/media/play/video/51303511

just 2 plays later, freshman Brian Matthews punches it in from a few yards out to increase the Hokies lead to 44 - 13 as time expires.

Play of the Game: Kevin Logan's 60 yard interception touchdown return

Player(s) of the Game: Hokie defense - 4 sacks, 3 turnovers, 2 interceptions for touchdowns, and for the 2nd week in a row, kept a quarterback under 200 yards passing. Retting went 16 of 39 for 154 yards 1 td 2 interceptions

Stats
Brandon Reid - 12 of 27 146 yards 1 td 1 int - 11 carries 88 yards 1 td
Matthews - 16 carries 85 yards 1 td
Gayle - 2 sacks, 5 TFL, 7 total tackles

Rettig - 16 of 39 154 yards 1 td 2 int - 6 carries -11 yards
Williams - 19 carries 135 yards

Erin - "I am standing here with Coach Foster...Coach, can you sum up into words how this game makes you feel?"

Foster - "Hell Erin, why yes I can. Unbelievable is how I feel right now. These players bled their hearts out on the field today, and they put on a show infront of our home crowd. This is a game we have been wanting for almost a year now, and we finally got out revenge. This is a heated rivalry, and I love seeing the guys get so wrapped up in this game and play with so much emotion - it makes it worth it the hours we put into getting these guys ready day in and day out. I am extremely happy, but we can only celebrate this victory for tonight, and then we are back in the office Monday getting ready for Miami. But tonight, we own bragging rights (laughs)."

Coach Foster is right - Miami travels to Blacksburg next week in one of the most important games of the season. Miami is 6-1 on the season, with their only loss being out of conference as they are 5-0 in the ACC, 1 game ahead of the Hokies. Miami is #20 in the nation and are gunning straight for the Hokies. Last year the Hokies barely came away with the victory, and while they were hyped up for their revenge over Boston College, Miami is doing the same in anticipation for the Hokies. This will be a huge game, as the winner determines who will win the Coastal division championship and go on to play in the ACC title game. All the other teams are 2 to 3 games back on both the Hurricanes and the Hokies, so this game will be championship atmosphere as one of the most heated rivalries in college football returns to action in Blacksburg.

News
- #1 Alabama was upset by unranked SEC opponent Tennessee as they kicked a field goal to win 37 to 34.

-#5 Cal lost to an unranked team as well

-#8 Texas A&M lost as well

-The Hokies have moved to #6 in the nation, and have a chance at sneaking into the title game with so many highly ranked teams playing each other in the 2nd half of the season if they can win out - it is believed that they control their own destiny.

Next-up: #20 Miami Hurricanes (6-1, 5-0) vs. #6 Virginia Tech Hokies (7-1, 4-0)

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(AP) - Blacksburg, VA - The #20 Miami Hurricanes traveled to Blacksburg to take on their bitter ACC Rivals the #6 Virginia Tech Hokies. After Hokies have won the last 3 matchups, the Hurricanes were looking to turn things around and end the Hokies' current streak.

It looked like this would end up happening as early on in the game, it was a defensive battle, and sophomore standout kicker Brandon Jackson missed a big field goal in the 1st quarter that posed for a possible momentum shifter. With merely seconds left in the 1st quarter, and the score knotted up at 0-0, Brandon Reid finally breaks the game open as he calls his own number on a QB iso keeper, and takes it 52 yards to paydirt unscathed as the Hokies go up 7-0 as the 1st quarter expires:

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


To start the 2nd quarter, the Hurricanes answer right back, as back-up QB Baldwin with the help of senior tailback James helped work their offense down the field (Mario West, Miami's star QB, has a broken wrist and will miss the remainder of the season). After a big pass play to their senior tight end who breaks the Hokie secondary and is tripped up at the 1 yard line, the Hokie defense lifts the "iron curtain", and force the Hurricanes to knock in a chip shot field goal after 3 big stops in the running game - Hokies 7, Hurricanes 3.

Late in the quarter after coming up with a big stop, Reid and the Hokies' offense take to the field, and link together some methodical plays, and work down inside the 5 yard line with only a minute to play. After 2 huge sacks, the Hokies face 3rd and 23 with the clock ticking down to 35, and Reid connects with Logan Thomas on a post route, but is stuffed short of the goal line, and as the Hokies bring on the kick team, they let the clock wind down to 2 seconds, and Jackson paces forward, kicks the ball, andddd:

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


No good! Jackson misses his 2nd field goal of the game, and the Hokies go into the locker room with the lead 7-3.

Erin Andrews interview was cut off short by Coach Foster, as he was clearly frustrated that this game was so close, and that his star kicker had missed 2 very important field goals.

Coming out of the locker room, the Hokie offense works down the field before they are stopped, and Jackson finally knocks in his first kick of the day to make it Hokies 10, Hurricanes 3. The Hokies finally knock in a 2nd field goal at the end of the 4th, and the score is 13 to 3 as we enter the 4th quarter.

After working his offense so successfully, and the running game running on all cylinders, Reid leads his troops down the field with around 6 minutes left, and calls his own number again, this time from 5 yards out and scores the touchdown to extend their lead to 17:

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


The Hokies never look back after this score, after they shut down the Hurricanes offense completely, and after a turnover on downs, Brian Matthews gets his number called, and he doesn't disappoint, as he blazes past the Hurricane defense for a touchdown:

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


Late in the game with merely seconds left, the Hurricanes finally score a touchdown after being held scoreless since the start of the 2nd quarter, and they score "pity points" on this touchdown pass by Baldwin:

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


Final Score - Hokies 30, Hurricanes 10

Play of the Game: Reid's 52 yard QB iso touchdown at the end of the 1st quarter

Player of the game: Brandon Reid 15 of 22 153 yards 0 td; 11 carries 71 yards 2 touchdowns

Stats:
Reid - 15 of 22 153 yards 0 td, 0 int; 11 carries 71 yards 2 tds
Matthews - 17 carries 88 yards 1 td
Hooper - 10 carries 64 yards
McCray - 11 total tackles, 7 TFL, 3 sacks

Next-up: Battle for the Commonwealth Cup against in-state rival UVa, Tech's last ACC conference game of the season

News/Tid-Bits
- #6 Virginia Tech will clinch the ACC Coastal with a win over UVa or UNC in the next 2 weeks, and will be playing against Florida State in the ACC Championship game whom they have already beat once this season if they are to do so.

-the top 10 has remain unchanged, but #2 Ohio State will have to play #5 Michigan in two weeks, which means the Hokies are guaranteed to move up at least one spot

-Hokies (8-1) still have to play UVa, UNC, and then finish the season off against Frank Beamer's Fighting Irish (#9 7-2), and still have a shot at the ACC Championship which could give them room to wiggle and possibly squeak into the BCS Title game - they will need a lot of help, though.

-recruiting: Hokies recruiting class is currently ranked 8th in the nation with their most 5* recruits ever - 4, and with 6 4* recruits. Their main recruit is 5* tight end Trae Fisher out of Newport News, VA. This kid will bring a lot of talent and skills to the table, and has the possibility to follow right in Logan Thomas' footsteps. He is 6'8" 249 lbs, and with this big body, he will be a prime target in the passing game for Brandon Reid. Look for this kid to make some big plays the next 4 years. He will be joining a stable of recruits that are sure to change the face of Hokie football. Wide receiver 5* Anthony Washington is another great recruit in the passing game that will give Reid plenty of weapons to work with.

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#6 Virginia Tech Hokies (9-1, 7-0) romp the UVa Cavaliers to retain the Commonwealth Cup for yet another year as Brandon Reid leads the potent offensive attack to a one-sided 47-6 victory.
(delayed report due to the Thanksgiving Holiday)

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(AP) Blacksburg, VA - UNC Tar Heels (4-6) traveled to Blacksburg, VA for Senior Night to take on the #6 Virginia Tech Hokies (9-1, 7-0) in what was viewed as an easy win - or was it?

It was Senior Night for the Hokies as they were decked out in their throwback uniforms to try and send these Seniors out of their home with a victory, and to keep their 11-game home win streak, and an overall 9 game win streak in tact. UNC was playing for the slight possibility of a bowl bid, while the Hokies are vying for a BCS bowl berth as they have already locked up the Coastal Division, and will be playing Florida State in the ACC Championship game. The Hokies have their eyes set on the ACC Title Game, and of course their final game against #8 Notre Dame next week, but somewhere in the process of preparation, they forgot that they had to play a UNC team first that is backed up in a corner and ready to put up a fight. UNC has had a talented squad all year, led by their Senior QB Brenner, who has been putting up outstanding numbers all year. Unfortunately, the injury bug has bit them, and they have dropped a lot of last second games. They are only a few plays away from being a ACC-title contender.

Re-Cap
To start the game, UNC elected to receive the ball first, to try and quiet the Hokie crowd quickly, and take them out of the game early. Brenner did just that on his opening possession, as he led his offense down the field, relying on his arm and on the feet of Bernard, and they get down to the goal line, but the Hokie defense steps up and forces them to a field goal, UNC 3- VT 0.

This quietly the crowd early, but this wouldn't last long as on the ensuing kickoff, their senior kicker kicked it to the wrong guy, as Nubian Peak fields the ball:



EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


Peak spins and breaks a few ankles before hitting the juice, and jetting down the sideline to score from 95 yards out - VT 7, UNC 3. Hokie Nation came back into the game after this big play by the senior, and all 67,000 strong were on their feet.

UNC can't follow up and replicate their success from their first possession, and are forced to punt the ball to the Hokies. With 67,000 screaming for their new QB icon Brandon Reid, he takes to the field to try and muster some more points. However, it was his inexperience that showed on the following play instead of his play making abilities as he spent too much time with the ball in his hand - one of his worse habits according to Coach Foster:



EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


Reid is crushed and coughs up the ball, giving it back to UNC, and they capitalize by knocking in another chip-shot field goal - VT 7, UNC 6.

UNC finds the answer to Hokies' offense, as they force a three and out and get the ball back quickly. Brenner takes to the field, pushes down into Hokie territory, where he hooks up with his tight end Miller for a 28 yard touchdown to give them their first lead of the game - UNC 13, VT 7.EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Photo

Miller catches the 28 yard touchdown pass from Brenner while Ryan Caldwell and Jerrod Stone look on in disgust


Yet again UNC stifled Reid and the Hokie offense, as they get an interception late in the 2nd quarter, and follow it up with another field goal to lengthen their lead - UNC 16, VT 7.

With around 2:45 left in the half, Reid huddles his players together and clearly looks displeased with their performance this far. To this point, UNC has 157 yards total offense to Virginia Tech's -35 total yards of offense! Reid with the help of his offensive line and some superior route running by Coles, Peak, and Thomas work inside the goal line with only 12 seconds left trying to score a touchdown and get some momentum back, as they have been lethargic to this point. Reid drops back, sees Peak coming across the middle, and fires the pass off just before getting rocked:



EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


UNC 16, VT 14 - Halftime

Erin Andrews attempted to interview Coach Foster at halftime, but he blew past the microphone saying that "I have nothing to say" - clearly frustrated by his team's first half performance.

Thinking that things would be different in the second half as Hokies seemed to capture the momentum, we were all caught off guard as UNC continued their onslaught of Virginia Tech's offense as they hold them scoreless throughout the 3rd quarter as they knock in another field goal as the start of the 4th approached, and Hokies have the ball and seem to be building momentum. Players from both sides held their 4 fingers in the air to signal the start to the final quarter, and Herbstreit and Nessler both are hitting the upset alert button.

Reid leads his offense down the field, converting on not one, but 2 fourth down conversions. After getting into UNC redzone, Reid connets with a streaking Coles on 3rd down, and he rumbles into the endzone untouched to finally score their first points of the 2nd half. Foster quickly held up 2 fingers, motioning for the 2 point conversion. Reid calls his own number on an option, and sneaks into the endzone for the successful conversion - VT 22, UNC 19.

UNC gets the ball back, but wastes no time working down the field. After 2 huge sacks by Dahl and McCray, UNC attempt the field goal to tie the game, and barely succeed as the ball squeezes just inside the up-right - VT 22, UNC 22.

Reid takes to the field with only 4 minutes left, and works down the field by way of his feet with some tough scrambles, but is sacked on 3rd down in UNC territory, and Brandon Jackson comes on to kick the 47 yard field goal, as the Hokies rekindle the lead - VT 25, UNC 22. 67,000 strong are on their feet, as UNC must score a touchdown to win, but only need a field goal to send to over time.

Hokies defense finally chooses the right time to step up, and with the help of 2 more sacks, UNC punts the ball to the Hokies with a little over 2 minutes left and a full slate of time outs. Virginia Tech's running game was struggling to this point, so they felt like they liked their chances at holding tech to three and out. On first down, this looked to hold true as Grayson is crushed for just a 1 yard gain, time out - 1:58 left. On 2nd down, Hokies line up in the wishbone, and Reid tosses to Brian Matthews, whom darts through the open gap, and heads down the left sideline 42 yards for a HUGE Hokie first down - and Lane Stadium is alive! On the ensuing play, same formation, Reid hands it off to Grayson on a lead-right, and he busts it outside:



EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


Huge touchdown by the Hokies - VT 32, UNC 22. This touchdown seemingly ended UNC's chances unless they can score and get an onside kick with only 2 time outs left.

UNC gets the ball, but thanks to blanket coverage, Hokies force an incompletion on first down and 2nd down, and on 3rd down a coverage sack - time out UNC. On 4th down and 18 from their own 3 yard line, Brenner drops back, McCray breaks off of his block and CRUSHES Brenner in the endzone who fumbles, but it is recovered by his own man. Brenner is down and had to be helped off the field sustaining a shoulder injury - VT 34, UNC 22.

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Photo


UNC's offensive guard recovering the loose ball on the sack-safety in the endzone by McCray

UNC punts the ball back to Virginia Tech, and on the first play, Reid finally shows why he is the most successful freshman quarterback in team history:



EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


55 yard option keeper by Reid - his 10th touchdown of the season (28th total touchdown overall in 7 games, 6 starts) - VT 41, UNC 22 - 1 minute left.

Brenner takes to the field simply playing for stats now, and on first down connects with a 48 yard strike down the left sideline. He hurries to the line, but on the next play, he is crushed by Zack McCray yet again, and fumbles the ball as Freshman Kevin Logan recovers the fumble, and falls to the ground to secure the victory.

Play of the Game:
EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Photo


Reid's 55 yard scamper for a touchdown

Player of the Game(s):
-Zack McCray - 7 total tackles, 4 TFL, 4 sacks, 2 FF, 1 safety

Stats
-Reid 8 of 20 121 yards 2 td 1 int; 11 carries 60 yards 1 td, 1 2 pt conversion
-Thomas - 4 rec 65 yards
-Matthews 13 car 81 yards
-Grayson 3 carries 39 yards 1 td
-McCray 7 tt, 4 tfl, 4 sk, 2 ff, 1 safety

-Brenner - 19 of 34 239 yards 1 td
-Bernard 30 car 133 yards

News

-Hokies will play Florida State in ACC Championship Game, and their 2nd appearance in a row

-Hokies have won 10 straight

-#5 Michigan upset #2 Ohio State 9-6 and the Hokies move to #5 in the nation

-#4 Utah is only a few BCS points ahead of the Hokies, and with a win this week over Notre Dame, and a solid performance in the ACC championship game, Hokies may be in BCS title contention if Texas and LSU slip up in their championship games (Nebraska and Florida respectfully).

Next-Up

#5 Virginia Tech Hokies (10-1, 8-0) vs. #8 Notre Dame (8-2) (Frank Beamer as head coach)

Preview for this game will be posted later today - stay tuned.

[mm boost]

****GAME OF THE WEEK****

____________________________

#5 Virginia Tech Hokies VS. #8 Notre Dame Irish

[10-1 (8-0)] ________________________________[8-2 (0-0)]


At Historic Notre Dame Stadium
Presented by: ESPN
Tonight 8 pm E/T; 7pm C/T

(AP) Preview
Tonight marks the beginning of the annual meeting between 2 programs on the opposite end of the spectrum: Virginia Tech Hokies who have emerged from the shadows in the last 5-7 years and who have become national contenders, and then the Notre Dame Fighting Irish - a program that is the benchmark of all other college programs around the country. When you think of football, you automatically think of Notre Dame. The storied history behind this program and it's legacy will far outlive the game of football in and of itself. Two completely different programs, but one common bond: Frank Beamer.

Earlier this year, Frank Beamer accepted the offer to become the head coach of the Fighting Irish after Coach Kelly could only accumulate 3-.500 seasons. With the prestige this program carries, the search for the new coach began last fall when their bowl hopes were all but crushed. This time around, they knew they had to go with a coach who has achieved a level of success that few have reached. Frank Beamer was the man for the job, after spending 3 decades in Blacksburg, VA. He has turned the school into a 6-star prestigious program that has earned its keep in the recruiting deparment and has delivered many key victories on the big stage. The only thing that Beamer did not achieve was a National Championship - a goal that can become reality as he takes over the reigns of Notre Dame.

Left behind to become the new coach for the Hokies, Bud Foster has followed right in Beamer's footsteps by traveling a path of success. After losing their marquee matchup at the beginning of the season by 1 point to USC, the Hokies have rattled off 10 straight victories, and are now the #5 team in the country, and have earned a spot in the ACC Championship Game against Florida State. Bud Foster grew up under the wing of Frank Beamer as defensive coordinator, and has instilled many of the morals and principles that Beamer brought to Blacksburg. Both men have tremendous amounts of respect for one another, which should make this annual rivalry all-the-more-sweeter. Foster is out to prove that he can carry the Hokies to the top, while Beamer is trying to prove that he is one of the most successful coaches in college football history, and that he can continue on that path with a school that all coaches dream to be a part of as a child. To add fuel to the fire, Beamer led his Fighting Irish to a big 34-31 victory over USC in what was inadvertently viewed as a one-up for Beamer over Foster. This was a large stepping stone for Beamer, though, because the first 2 games of the season they struggled with 2 consecutive losses out of the gates. On the other hand, Foster traveled to the Coliseum to take on USC at the beginning of the season, and came up just 1 point shy - a game that marked only the beginning of the passing struggles Virginia Tech would endure with Junior Trey Gresh at the helm. Many critics believe that had Foster went with Reid from the beginning, that Virginia Tech would be undefeated and would be playing in the BCS Championship Game at season's end. Surely Foster will view Beamer's victory over USC as a one-up performance, and will be out for the victory tonight. Foster acknowledges that the lack of a passing attack was the reason for their early season struggles.

It wasn't until the ACC game against Georgia Tech that Foster benched Gresh, and put in true freshman Brandon Reid out of Newport News, VA (6'6" 215lbs.). Since Reid took over in the 2nd half of that game, he has passed for 1,726 yards 18 touchdowns 3 interceptions, and has added 499 yards rushing and 10 rushing touchdowns. It is not coincidental that the Hokies have averaged 42.3 points per game, and have won 10 consecutive games leading into tonight's contest. One thing is for sure: Reid's abilities will surely be on display tonight as this rivalry kicks off!

Beginning this year (2013), without an end in site, the Hokies and the Fighting Irish will meet annually at the end of each season in what will be called: "The Battle for the Lunch Pail." The winner of each contest will take possession of the blue-collar lunch pail, a tradition that Bud Foster started in his first season with Virginia Tech in 1995. This lunch pail will be displayed in the trophy case of the victor of this game for one year, in which it will be brought to the site of each game, and will be put up for grabs again. Each year, the teams will swap a home-and-home series, starting this year at historic Notre Dame Stadium. This will give a little more meaning to this annual game, and give each team a reason to win.

This lunch pail has a lot of history behind it, as it usually contains the team's mission statement, along with any other sorts of motivation for the team. Typically, the defensive MVP would be awared the lunch pail, and would not relinquish it until another player on defense consistently out-done the current possessor. Some previous lunch-pail possessors include Daryl Tapp, Orion Martin, Xavier Adibi, John Graves, Jason Worilds, among many other big-name stars that have graced the Virginia Tech program. Starting this year, though, it won't be the defensive MVP that takes possession of the lunch pail. Instead, the winner of the game will stake claim to the pale, and return it to their respective school's trophy case.


Tonight's game will mark the beginning of something great, something that makes football so unique in comparison to other sports and other cultures - a traditional rivalry. This game is sure to have postseason implications for years to come, and this first year is no difference. As it stands In current bowl projections, both of these teams are projected to play one another in the Discover Orange Bowl in Miami, FL. This game is essentially for that spot in the Orange Bowl (barring some type of miracle at the top of the rankings, and a gaffe-less performance against FSU in the ACC Title Game) and adds more fuel to the fire. Expect a respectful performance from both squads, but also expect an intense, high powered football game. This could be a test of offenses and wits between the two coaches. They both know each other very well, and will have a counter for each move that is made. Foster will be bringing a true freshman in Reid to a rowdy environment, while Beamer will be unleashing 3 high powered tail backs, and senior quarterback Cotton. This will be the true test to see which program has progressed the most, and should pave the way for an astounding post-season.

Who will win this rivalry? Can Foster keep the coveted Lunch Pail in Blacksburg for another year, or will Beamer get "hungry" and snatch the lunch pail from this Hokie squad? Will tempers be flaring between the two teams with so much on the line in terms of the BCS? Tune in tonight to the Battle for the Lunch Pail on ESPN and become a part of history!

[mm boost]

HOKIES AND THE IRISH FACED OFF IN A MATCH-UP OF BLUE COLLAR TEAMS FOR THE BATTLE OF THE LUNCH PAIL

(AP) South Bend, IN. - The #5 Virginia Tech Hokies led by their new head coach Bud Foster traveled to South Bend tonight to take on the #8 Notre Dame Fighting Irish led by former Virginia Tech head coach Frank Beamer in the inaugural series for "Battle of the Lunch Pail."

Re-Cap
Notre Dame began the game by electing to receive the opening kick-off, as Hokies defer possession to the second half. Senior Quarterback Cotton lead his team out onto the field for Senior Day in hopes of spoiling the Hokies' season, and landing a BCS berth in the Discover Orange Bowl. Simply "leading" his team was the understatement of the day, as Cotton dominated on the field throughout tonight's game, further displaying how successful his college career has been.

On their opening possession, the Irish quickly show to Bud Foster an offense that he was not prepared for - assuming that Beamer would be implementing the playbook he used at Virginia Tech that has provided so many years of highly rated offense. However, on the first play, Telvion Clark breaks through the line, and puts the hammer on Notre Dame's senior tail back, who coughs up the ball but is recovered by Irish offensive lineman. This clearly set the mood for this game, as it was an extremely physical and hard fought game. Notre Dame go to three and out, and are forced to punt the ball to the Hokies.

Reid comes out on his opening possession, and proves once again that he is one of the top freshman in the nation, as he connects with DJ Coles to put them into the Irish red-zone. However, the Irish step up strong, and stop the Hokies. Sophomore stand-out kicker Brandon Jackson, who has been tried and true all year, lines up for the 37 yard field goal. The weather was cold and blistery, and surely had an effect on tonight's game as Jackson's kick sails wide left, and is no good as the score remains knotted up at 0-0. Notre Dame take over, work down the field behind the arm of Cotton and the feet of their senior tail back Townes, and attempt a field goal of their own from 42 yards out, but it sails wide right, NO GOOD! 0 - 0 still.

Hokies resume possession, but are unable to get anything going, and Irish get the ball back. On a huge first down pass, Cotton connects with his favorite receiver who streaks down the sideline before being stopped inside the Hokies 20. They are forced to three and out from here, and attempt another field goal that sails wide right again as the score remains 0 - 0.

Irish's kicker may have been struggling, but their defense proved to be a little too much to handle for the Hokies in the first half. They force Reid's offense to a three and out again. Cotton takes over at the 34 yard line, and wastes no time in working his offense down the field and into field goal range yet again as the 1st quarter expires, and we have a scoreless game.

2nd quarter begins with three great defensive plays by the Hokies' defense, and Beamer sends out his kicker for his third attempt - maybe he will get the "luck of the Irish," or third time's a charm? #14 paces forward, puts the ball up, and it sails just wide left as Hokies' sideline errupts with excitement that they take over with it still a scoreless game.

Reid finally gets going as he works down inside Notre Dame territory, but is stopped short at the 32 yard line after a violent sack on Reid. Foster sends Jackson on the field, but he pulls through this time as he puts up the 49 yard field goal, and they take the lead VT 3, ND 0.

Foster's defense finally start playing to their true potential, and find an answer for the Cotton-Townes show. As the end of the 2nd abruptly approaches, Reid gets his offense into scoring position and capitalizes after Matthews punches it in from a few yards out - VT 10, ND 0.

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Photo


Half-Time

Foster was clearly pleased with the effort of his defense so far, but stressed how Notre Dame has moved the ball with ease, and the offense has to get off the ground.

Beamer wasn't as up-beat as Foster, as the struggles with his kicker continues as he missed his 7th, 8th, and 9th field goals of the season. He stressed the importance of finishing drives, and stopping Reid.

To start the third quarter, Reid comes out in what looks to be a run formation, but they try a bit of trickery as he calls the play-action to catch the Irish off guard -

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


Beamer knew what to expect in the 2nd half from Foster, further proving that this game was a match of wits - a chess match if you will. Reid's pass is intercepted and downed near the goal line, putting a lot of pressure on Foster's defense. On 1st, 2nd, and 3rd down, Townes is walled off from the endzone, and in a gutsy move not true to Beamer's history, he goes for it on 4th and 2 from the 2 yard line. Cotton sees a miss-match, audibles the call, and Townes gets the counter away from the over-aggressive defensive line and dives into the endzone for the touchdown - VT 10, ND 7.

Reid showed his frustration on the sideline, but Foster calms his youngster down, and he comes out to take back over this game. They work the clock with some nice runs, and nice underneath pass plays as ND was committed to stopping the "big play." After working down into Irish territory, Reid drops back and connects with his freshman Hendrix on a drag route in stride, and Hendrix does the rest:

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


29 yard touchdown by Hendrix - VT 17, ND 7.

Cotton takes to the field on first down, as he tries to force a pass that goes errant and flies just over his tight end's head who was running a curl route, and FS Ryan Caldwell is there waiting as he makes an athletic play to snatch the ball before it hits the ground for the interception, and then returns it to the 9 yard line of ND.

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Photo


2 plays later, Matthews finds paydirt for the 2nd time as he rumbles in for the touchdown - VT 24, ND 7.

It seemed at this point that Notre Dame was completely out of the game, and would be the case if this were still Coach Kelly era. But as we all may know by now - you can never count out Frank Beamer.

Beamer gives his players a gut-check speech on the sidelines, and they seem to respond as Cotton takes his troops right down the field on this Hokie defense. On 3rd down at the 19, Cotton drops back and connects with his favorite target Lambert:

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


Touchdown Notre Dame, as they decrease the deficit to 10 on a very important drive - VT 24, ND 14.

Reid takes to the field, but forgets to bring his left arm, as three errant passes forces a quick three and out as Cotton and the Irish look to take over and draw closer on the score board. Cotton does not disappoint, and on 3rd down, Cotton catches the Hokie defense in cover 3 as welch slips in behind the safeties on a streak:

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


Touchdown for the Irish, and we now had a ball game - VT 24, ND 21.

On the ensuing possession, the Hokies are able to come up with a touchdown by way of the feet of Grayson from a few yards out as the 3rd quarter ends - VT 31, ND 21

As 4th quarter begins, so does a turn around for the Hokies after giving up some big touchdowns in the 3rd. Notre Dame gets the ball, but an abrupt three and out forces them to punt the ball to the Hokies. Wasting no time, Reid works down the field, gets into position to score but is sacked on 2nd down to force a 3rd and long. Reid drops back on 3rd down looking for a quick slant, everything is bottled up, he rolls out of the pocket where Notre Dame's right end breaks off his block and is in close pursuit. Reid runs around the outside, is approaching the line of scrimmage, has a receiver open, does a quick pump fake, stalls the corners, and he jets forward on the edge of the sideline, and dives towards the end zone:

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Photo


Knees are parallel to the ground, ball across the plane - touchdown Hokies! - VT 38, ND 21. This puts a lot of pressure on Notre Dame with not a lot of time left (5 minutes), but if anyone can do it, a Beamer-led squad can.

Cotton takes to the field yet again, and like clockwork, gets this well-oiled machine down the field, and into position to score and bring them within striking distance. With the clock just over 3 minutes, Cotton drops back in the pocket, has a guy open, but fails to see Telvion Clark coming off the corner, and Clark wrecks Cotton as the ball flies free:

EA Sports: NCAA Football 11 Video


James Gayle picks it up, and takes it un-touched down the sideline 73 yards for a touchdown as Laiti paces with him towards paydirt - VT 45, ND 21 - any possible comeback by the Irish was squandered at this point, with only 3 minutes left.

Cotton doesn't give up, as they move down the field and score with a little over a minute left to pull the score to - VT 45, ND 27.

The on-side kick takes a Hokie bounce, and Grayson recovers it, and allows the Hokies to run the clock-out, and win the game.

Battle of the Lunch Pail Winners: Virginia Tech

Play of the Game: James Gayle's 73 yard fumble return touchdown after the sack by Clark

Player of the Game: Brandon Reid 17 of 35 253 yards 2 touchdowns, 1 int; 11 carries 38 yards 1 touchdown

Stats
Reid 17 of 35 253 yards 2 td, 1 int; 11 carries 38 yards 1 td
Matthews 15 carries 56 yards 2 touchdowns
Grayson 6 carries 33 yards 1 touchdown
Thomas 5 receptions 112 yards - broke the all time school record for receiving yards in a career

Cotton 28 of 37 323 yards 2 touchdowns 1 interception 1 fumble
Townes 28 carries 132 yards 1 td
Lambert 6 rec 102 yards 1 td

Erin - "I am standing by with Coach Foster - Coach, how do you describe the feeling of winning this game, and how do you assess how these players performed tonight?"

Foster - "Erin, I tell you what - proud is the word that I would use to describe this feeling. All season long we have pulled together, played with pride and emotion, and have never given up. After losing the first game against USC, it was time to find out what this team was made of. To be able to lose on the road in such a tough environment, and in a marquee match-up, and then turn around and rattle off 11 straight victories, I just could not be more thrilled to be the coach of this football team. They never gave up tonight, even after a scoreless first quarter, and after the Irish pulled within 3. Consistency and never letting the foot off the gas is what I always preach to these players, and I believe they are all starting to take on this mentality. I could not ask more from these guys, except maybe to win the ACC Championship and our BCS Bowl Game - but for now, tonight's victory will do (laughs).

Beamer has done an excellent job with this Notre Dame program, and this score board doesn't show how close/physical this game really was. I commend him for turning around Notre Dame, and for having the right game plan. We just had a few lucky breaks that we capitalized on, and that's often the difference between winning and losing. I will be looking forward to playing them in Blacksburg next season, but until then - the lunch pail returns to Hokie Nation!"

Erin - "What exactly do you have in that lunch pail Coach Foster? Is there anything food related - I am kinda hungry (laughs)!"

Foster - "Sadly Erin, we don't have any food in there. Trust me, if we did, it wouldn't be any left anyways after our defensive line got a hold of it (laughs). But what is in the pail is our mission statement, along with other notes of motivation. Monday morning, we will be placing a sticker from Florida State inside the lunch pail as we have our eyes set solely on them and the ACC Championship. We fell short last year against Boston College, but we do not plan to repeat that performance this year.

Jimbo Fisher will have the Seminoles ready after we defeated them earlier this season, and with film on us, they should be able to come up with an effective gameplan. We must do the same if we expect to win the championship.

Erin - "Coach Foster, as always, it's been a pleasure - thank you for sharing your time with us. Now go celebrate the big victory!"

Foster - "Thank you Erin, the pleasure is mine."

__________________________________________________ ____

News

-#5 Hokies and #4 Utah Utes leap-frogged previous #3 Michigan, as the Hokies are now the #4 team. Only a few points behind Utah, with an ACC Championship in hand, and a loss from Texas and LSU in their respective conference championship games, the Hokies will land right in the National Championship game.

-#4 Hokies are slated to play #9 Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl currently