Here are some important stats from last year's game between VaTech and NU. Don't forget that this is roughly the same team from a year ago, except they don't have their starting running back and lost a few defensive starters.
VaTech:
1) They had 55 running attempts for 206 yards, averaging 3.7 yards per carry.
2) Had 171 net yards passing, and Taylor went 9 for 15.
3) Controlled T.O.P. 34:44 to 25:16.
NU:
1) Had 25 attempts for 55 yards.
2) Had 7 penalties for 69 yards.
3) Had three fumbles and lost 1.
I think these stats show us a couple things. First of all, they are most definitely going to run the ball and we are going to have to be pretty stingy about it. But on the positive side, when a team runs 55 times and you hold them 206 yards, that isn't necessarily all that bad. We have to be able to run the ball against them to be successful.
Second of all, it's apparent that when they pass they go for the big play, which is something we're going to have to limit. If he gets 171 yards passing on 9 completions, it shows they really don't like to throw the ball unless it is going to prove very beneficial.
Third of all, we are going to have to cut down on the penalties and fumbles if we are going to have a shot. We toned them down against ASU, but we still had nearly 40 yards taken away thanks to 3 penalties. We have yet to fumble the ball and have only thrown one interception in the last two games, which means our ball control is going great. But, VaTech has a solid defense, one much more talented than the ones we have faced. Ball security needs to be a huge point of emphasis this week.
If we can get Helu and Burkhead a good amount of touches, limit penalties, and maintain ball security, we are going to win and possibly have a big day against VaTech. Lack in those three areas, and we are going to face a similar outcome like last year.
