Even though the Devils' offense could not move the ball effectively, Tech starting quarterback Tyrod Taylor gave Duke plenty of opportunities early on, throwing interceptions to senior middle linebacker Michael Tauiliili and freshman safety Matt Daniels.
Duke squandered the early interceptions, being stuffed by the tough run defense of Tech.
Redshirt freshman Darren Evans provided another chance for Duke, fumbling a pitch from Taylor later recovered by Daniels.
This time, the Devils capitalized, picking up 22 yards and a first down to set up sophomore Nick Maggio for a 39-yard field goal to take the lead, 3-0.
Taylor's night finally ended after running for a 16-yard gain and fumbling to junior Catron Gainey.
"I was a little disappointed in myself, but it was the better move for the team at the time and we just had to go with what coach said. I was more disappointed in myself than anything else," Taylor said.
After the replacement, Tech's turnover problem continued, as fifth-year senior Sean Glennon had a pass tipped by Tauiliili and then intercepted by Gainey.
Still, Duke could not take advantage of the gift from the Hokies and Tech's offense finally woke up at the end of the half.
Glennon managed to put together an 11 play, 86-yard touchdown drive ending with a touchdown pass to freshman Jarrett Boykin, the first reception for a touchdown by a wide receiver all season for the Hokies.
Tech kicker Dustin Keys converted on the extra point, putting the score at 7-3 in favor of the Hokies near intermission.
Offensive ineptitude continued into the third quarter for both teams, with neither able to put points on the board, instead trading punts back and forth.
Duke continued to run the ball, attempting no passes in the third quarter, instead content to run with Asack into the teeth of the Tech defense with little success.
In the fourth quarter, Tech began to wear down the Duke defense, pounding the ball with Evans and running the "Wild Turkey" formation with redshirt junior tight end Greg Boone.
The Hokies can claim the Coastal Division by beating the rival Virginia Cavaliers next Saturday.
"Now we're back to controlling our own destiny," Harris said. "We're only one game away. This was a great victory tonight, we're going to put it behind us and go back to work on Monday."
Duke, now eliminated from any bowl consideration, will face North Carolina at home.
Continue Reading: « Previous12
Leave a comment 3 Comments Write a letter to the editor
All letters to the editor must include a name, e-mail, daytime phone number and affiliation to Virginia Tech. Affiliation includes: year and major for students; position and department for faculty and staff; current city for alumni and parents.
Holly lousy offense.. with all due respect Mr. Beamer, I hope if we get through to play for a BCS Bowl game, and we get blown out of the park, you will finally realize that the record doesn't mean anything and you should take care on business in the offensive depratment of your coaching staff. Till then : http://firebryanstinespring.blogspot.com/2008_11_01_archive.html
Reply to this Top
IT is the simple "easy" protest to say Bryan Stinespring should go. The ambitious one is to call for Frank Beamer to do the right thing and step down. When is the last time we won a major bowl game (e.g. Sugar, Orange, Rose, Fiesta, BCS Championship)? 1995 against Texas, if I recall? Sad.
Reply to this Top
Mr. Crandley, Just FYI: in your second sentence, it should be ACC championship berth, not birth.
Reply to this Top