Expected to win their third straight Atlantic Coast Conference title and contend for a national championship back in August, the Hokies won't achieve either goal. The only carrot currently dangling for them is a sixth straight 10-win season.
But in the last two games, a Virginia Tech squad which figured to have little to play for has cranked out a couple of passionate efforts. Following a 16-3 win at East Carolina, the Hokies hammered hapless Maryland 36-9 last week.
Now Tech tries for a third straight win Saturday in its home finale against struggling N.C. State, which saw its bowl hopes end against Clemson last week.
Much like Maryland, the Wolfpack have struggled defensively, although they've been hit hard by injuries. They've lost half their projected starters to season-ending injuries and have allowed at least 30 points in each of their last seven games. But Tech coach Frank Beamer sees obstacles when many see another big game for the Hokies' offense.
"Maryland scored on a kickoff return and an interception," Beamer said. "Clemson had some short fields against them. I see a young defense that is getting better every week. It's going to be another tough game."
That might be true on defense, where Tech does have to contend with sophomore QB Russell Wilson, a better-throwing, less-mobile version of Tyrod Taylor. Wilson is sure to be motivated as well, since he's a Richmond product the Hokies didn't recruit because of Taylor's presence.
However, Tech should win if it's ready to play. And from the way the players sounded after the blowout win at Maryland, focus won't be an issue.
"It's the same game we've been playing since we were five years old," CB Rashad Carmichael said. "That's what I tell the guys."
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Virginia Tech Hokies
