Georgia Tech vs. Virginia Tech Game Preview (10-23-24)
By: Joey Raymond
Headline Photo Credit: Katie Raymond-LMS Network
Blacksburg, VA —Homecoming in Blacksburg is always a special event, and this year’s clash between the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and the Virginia Tech Hokies promises to be no different. Both teams enter this pivotal ACC matchup with something to prove, and with a long history between them, this contest could go down to the wire.
Georgia Tech: Looking to Rebound
Coming off a tough 31-13 loss to No. 12 Notre Dame, Georgia Tech (5-3, 3-2 ACC) is eager to bounce back. The Yellow Jackets’ season has seen some impressive highs, including wins over Duke, North Carolina, and Florida State. Head coach Brent Key, in his second full season, has instilled a sense of optimism within the program. However, with starting quarterback Haynes King’s status still uncertain after missing the Notre Dame game, Georgia Tech may once again rely on backup Zach Pyron.
Pyron has already proven himself capable, delivering a strong debut against Virginia Tech in 2022 when he totaled 319 yards of offense. This year, he’ll lean on a balanced offensive attack. Running back Jamal Haynes has been the Yellow Jackets’ workhorse with 551 rushing yards and eight touchdowns, while wide receiver Malik Rutherford has contributed 541 receiving yards. However, Georgia Tech’s offensive line will need to hold up against Virginia Tech’s aggressive pass rush, which has racked up 25 sacks this season.
Virginia Tech: Riding a Wave of Momentum
Virginia Tech (4-4, 3-2 ACC) enters the game on a two-game win streak and will look to capitalize on the energy of their homecoming crowd. The Hokies opened as 9.5-point favorites on Fanduel Sportsbook, with much of that confidence stemming from their improving offense led by quarterback Kyron Drones. Drones have settled into the starting role, and his dual-threat ability could pose problems for Georgia Tech’s 42nd-ranked defense.
The Hokies’ defense, meanwhile, has been a strength all season, anchored by their formidable front seven. Virginia Tech has 25 sacks on the season, and they’ll look to disrupt Pyron’s rhythm early. The Yellow Jackets have struggled to protect their quarterback, giving up significant pressure in recent games.
Key Matchups
- Quarterback Dilemma: Haynes King or Zach Pyron?
Georgia Tech’s offense faces a pivotal question: who will be under center? Haynes King, the starting quarterback, missed last week’s game against Notre Dame, and his availability for this weekend is still uncertain. Head coach Brent Key described King’s status as “day-to-day,” and the team is hopeful for a quick return, but there are no guarantees. Should King be unavailable, Zach Pyron will step in once again. Interestingly, Pyron’s first career start came against Virginia Tech in Blacksburg last season, where he led the Yellow Jackets to a victory. If he gets the call again, can Pyron replicate that success and secure bowl eligibility for Georgia Tech?
- Virginia Tech’s Pass Rush vs. Georgia Tech’s Offensive Line
This will be one of the most critical matchups of the game. Virginia Tech boasts one of the most ferocious pass rushes in the country, tied for 4th in the nation with 25 sacks. Defensive end Antwaun Powell-Ryland has been a standout, tying for the national lead with 11 sacks, including a four-sack performance against Boston College. However, Georgia Tech’s offensive line has been equally impressive, giving up only three sacks all season—third-fewest in the country. Two of those sacks came against Notre Dame’s elite defense, but Virginia Tech’s pass rush may be even more formidable. If the Yellow Jackets can keep Pyron or King upright, they’ll have a fighting chance.
- Can Georgia Tech’s Rushing Attack Regain Form?
Georgia Tech entered last week’s game against Notre Dame with the ACC’s top rushing attack, but they plummeted to sixth in the conference after being held in check. Jamal Haynes, who had been playing some of his best football, was limited to just 15 yards on eight carries. If the Yellow Jackets hope to upset Virginia Tech, they’ll need their ground game to regain form. The Hokies have shown some vulnerability against the run, but after a lackluster performance, it remains to be seen if Haynes and the Georgia Tech rushing corps can bounce back.
Series History and Stakes
These two teams are familiar foes from their days in the ACC Coastal division, having played every year between 2004 and 2019. Although the Hokies lead the all-time series 11-8, Georgia Tech has won the last four matchups in Blacksburg—a streak dating back to 2012. This adds another layer of intrigue as the Yellow Jackets look to keep their road dominance alive.
With both teams sitting at 3-2 in the ACC, this game could have significant implications for conference standings as the regular season winds down. Expect a hard-fought battle in a game that could come down to the first big defensive stop or turnover.
Game Details
- Date: Saturday, October 28
- Time: Noon ET
- Location: Lane Stadium, Blacksburg, VA
- Television: ACC Network
- Line: Virginia Tech -9.5, Over/Under 51.5
