Virginia Tech Lose Heartbreaker To Vanderbilt (8-31-24)

By: Joey Raymond

All Photo Credit: Virginia Tech Football

Nashville, TN –Game day has arrived, and the stage is set for the Hokies and Commodores to clash in the Music City. Vanderbilt welcomes Virginia Tech to Nashville, with the Hokies entering the matchup boasting a 6-3 record, including five consecutive wins. The last meeting between these teams was in November 1989, when Tech shut out Vanderbilt 18-0. Although the Hokies have received considerable preseason praise, they need to prove their worth on the field, and a road win to start the season would be a strong statement. Throughout the offseason, Virginia Tech has consistently been favored by nearly two touchdowns over the Commodores, a margin that remains unchanged as kickoff approaches.

First Quarter

Vanderbilt received the ball first and quickly established momentum in their opening drive, advancing into field goal range before the Hokies’ defense made a critical stand. Despite this, Vanderbilt managed to score a field goal, taking the early lead at 3-0. On Virginia Tech’s ensuing drive, they initially gained traction, but a tipped pass led to an interception, halting their progress. The first quarter concluded with Vanderbilt threatening in the red zone, holding a 3-0 lead.

Second Quarter

The Hokies sought to make a defensive stop to start the second quarter but fell short, as Vanderbilt’s Pavia connected with Skinner in the corner of the end zone for a touchdown, extending their lead to 10-0. Virginia Tech’s offensive struggles continued on their next possession, resulting in a punt. Tyler Bowen seemingly had forgotten that the Hokies could throw something other than a screen. The Commodores capitalized on their next opportunity, quickly advancing down the field for another touchdown, surprising many by extending their lead to 17-0.
Virginia Tech’s Kyron Drones faced difficulty on the next drive, nearly throwing two interceptions before the Hokies finally gained some momentum, largely due to the efforts of Jaylin Lane and Bayshul Tuten. However, after reaching the red zone, a combination of penalties and questionable play-calling forced the Hokies to settle for a field goal, making the score 17-3. Vanderbilt’s following drive resulted in a quick three-and-out, giving the Hokies a chance to score before halftime. Unfortunately, Drones appeared hesitant to throw the football, and the clock expired with the Hokies still trailing.

Third Quarter

Virginia Tech opened the third quarter with determination. A powerful pass to Ali Jennings, followed by an impressive run from Bayshul Tuten, propelled the Hokies into the end zone, narrowing Vanderbilt’s lead to 17-10. However, Vanderbilt quickly responded on their next drive, with quarterback Diego Pavia showcasing his mobility. As the Commodores approached midfield, the Hokies’ defense regained momentum, forcing Vanderbilt into a 4th and 10. Vanderbilt attempted a 54-yard field goal but was flagged for a delay of game, prompting them to punt. However, a penalty against Virginia Tech gave Vanderbilt another chance, allowing them to successfully kick the field goal, extending their lead to 20-10.
Both teams struggled to gain traction on their next possessions, resulting in a series of punts. When the Hokies regained possession, they began to find their rhythm, driving into the red zone. However, the drive stalled as Drones was sacked, leaving Virginia Tech to settle for a field goal, bringing the score to 20-13. Vanderbilt received the ball with about 30 seconds left in the quarter, which ended shortly after.

Fourth Quarter

The Hokies started the fourth quarter strong by forcing a three-and-out from Vanderbilt’s offense. With the ball back in their hands, Virginia Tech methodically drove into the red zone once again. Facing a 3rd and long, they turned the momentum by scoring a touchdown on a screen pass, tying the game at 20-20.
Vanderbilt responded by driving to the Hokies’ 36-yard line, where Virginia Tech’s defense forced a 3rd and 8, leading to a field goal attempt. A false start penalty pushed the Commodores back, resulting in a punt that pinned the Hokies at their own 3-yard line. Seizing the opportunity, Virginia Tech marched down the field, and just when the situation looked bleak on 3rd and long, Drones connected with Ali Jennings for a 62-yard touchdown pass, putting the Hokies ahead 27-20.

Vanderbilt, needing a response, worked their way into the red zone as the two-minute warning approached. On the first play after the break, the Commodores scored, tying the game at 27-27. With just under two minutes remaining, the Hokies had a chance to clinch the win but mismanaged the clock, wasting only 15 seconds. Vanderbilt got the ball back with all three timeouts and quickly moved into field goal range. As time expired, Vanderbilt attempted a 43-yard field goal, but the kick sailed wide right, sending the game into overtime.

Overtime

Vanderbilt started overtime with possession at their 25-yard line, following the standard overtime rules. Their offense looked sharp on the opening drive, efficiently moving the ball down the field. In just four plays, they found the end zone, securing a 34-27 lead. Virginia Tech then had their opportunity to respond, also starting from the 25-yard line. Colin Schlee took over as quarterback for the Hokies, but Vanderbilt’s defense stood firm, ultimately forcing a crucial 4th and 11. On the decisive play, Schlee attempted a pass into the end zone, but it sailed incomplete, sealing the victory for Vanderbilt and solidifying the upset. The final score in this one, is 34-27.

Final Thoughts and What’s Next

Due to poor clock management and several costly coaching errors, the Hokies suffered a deeply disappointing loss to the Commodores. Brent Pry must seriously evaluate the play-calling by his coordinators and make the necessary adjustments; if the Hokies continue with these same tactics, it could lead to a very challenging season. Looking ahead, Virginia Tech will return home to host Marshall next week. What was once a sellout crowd may see a decline in attendance after this game’s outcome. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt will carry their momentum into next week as they prepare to host Alcorn State.