Virginia Tech vs. Stanford Game Preview: A Crucial ACC Matchup (10-3-24)

By: Joey Raymond

Headline Photo Credit: Katie Raymond-LMS Network

Miami Gardens, FL — The Virginia Tech Hokies came heartbreakingly close to pulling off a major upset Friday night, but the No. 7 Miami Hurricanes survived a dramatic finish at Hard Rock Stadium, holding on for a thrilling 38-34 victory. Despite entering the game as heavy underdogs, the Hokies battled fiercely, displaying grit and resilience in a game that had fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

Virginia Tech vs. Stanford Game Preview: A Crucial ACC Matchup

This weekend, the Virginia Tech Hokies travel to the Bay Area to face off against the Stanford Cardinal in a highly anticipated ACC matchup. Both teams are eager to bounce back after tough losses and secure a much-needed win as they sit in the middle of their respective conference standings.

Last Week

Virginia Tech enters this game with a 2-3 record, but last week’s loss to Miami left a bitter taste. In a 38-34 defeat, the final moments were marred by controversy when ‘the catch that wasn’t’ was overturned after a 6-minute review. Many fans and analysts questioned the decision, and some speculated that it favored Miami’s top-10 ranking. Regardless, the Hokies put up a fight, tallying 394 total yards, including 206 on the ground, but ultimately fell short. Some questionable clock management towards the end and some interesting play calls ultimately shot the Hokies’ chances. 

Key Areas for Virginia Tech to Improve

1. Pass Defense: The Hokies struggled mightily against Miami’s aerial attack, surrendering 343 yards and four touchdowns. Now granted that was against heisman candidate Cam Ward, and boy did he look the part. Regardless, the Hokies will need to make sure they lock down in the passing game against a Stanford team that would love to put the ball in the air if the opportunity presents itself. Stanford loves to run, but if they can catch the Hokies slacking in the air, they have a team capable of doing so. 
   
2. Clock Management and Decision-Making: Questionable coaching decisions, including a controversial fake field goal attempt while leading by 10, clock management at both the end of the first half and the end of the game, left many scratching their heads. That’s the kind of stuff that makes you lose close games and currently, the Hokies are 1-10 in close games in the Brent Pry Era. Odds are this will be another close game. Improved time management and smarter play-calling will be key for head coach Brent Pry and his team.
4. 3rd-Down Efficiency: Virginia Tech’s defense allowed Miami to convert nearly 70% of their third downs, significantly higher than their season average. If they want to stop Stanford, tightening up on these crucial downs will be essential. 

Stanford’s Struggles and Opportunities

Stanford, with a 2-2 record, is coming off a 40-14 loss to Clemson. The Cardinal were outplayed in multiple areas, giving up 255 passing yards and struggling to slow down Clemson’s offense. However, Stanford’s ground game was a bright spot, averaging 5.4 yards per carry and totaling 236 rushing yards. Virginia Tech will need to contain Stanford’s run game if they want to keep the Cardinal offense in check.

Stanford’s Season Overview

Stanford’s offense is averaging 358.8 yards per game, ranked 94th in the nation. They’ve been solid on the ground with 162.3 rushing yards per game, but they’ve been less consistent through the air, averaging just under 200 passing yards per contest. Mistakes have also hurt Stanford, with six interceptions thrown this season, something the Hokies’ defense will look to capitalize on.

First ACC Meeting Between the Teams

This matchup is historic, as it marks Stanford’s first season in the ACC following the recent conference realignment. The Cardinal joined the ACC alongside SMU and California, expanding the league to 18 teams. This will also be the first regular-season meeting between Virginia Tech and Stanford, though the two programs last met in the 2011 Orange Bowl, where Stanford came out on top.

What to Expect in This Week’s Matchup

With both teams seeking to bounce back, this game could hinge on which team can correct their mistakes from last week. Virginia Tech’s defense will need to tighten up against the pass, while not losing anything in run defense. Stanford will aim to continue their success on the ground. The stakes are high as both teams fight to keep their seasons alive and inch closer to bowl eligibility.

This matchup promises to be a hard-fought contest, with Virginia Tech looking for redemption after last week’s controversy and Stanford eager to rebound from a tough loss to Clemson. Kickoff is set for Saturday, Oct. 5 at 3:30 p.m. ET at Stanford Stadium.