The Virginia Tech Hokies are set to clash with the Wake Forest Demon Deacons this afternoon at Lane Stadium, a game that's already buzzing with the energy of Homecoming weekend. Kickoff is at 1 p.m. ET, and fans are packing in early, hoping for a strong performance to build on the team's recent momentum. Indeed, after securing their first ACC win last week, the Hokies enter with a 2-2 record overall, looking to even things up against a Wake Forest squad that's stumbled lately, dropping two straight.
Virginia Tech's defense has been the standout so far this season, holding opponents to under 20 points in key games. Interim coach Philip Montgomery emphasized discipline in practice, stressing how crucial it is to contain Wake Forest's mobile quarterback, who nearly pulled off an upset against a top ACC foe just last Saturday. However, the Hokies' offense has shown flashes but lacks consistency—rushing for over 200 yards in one outing yet struggling in others. Moreover, Homecoming adds that extra layer of pressure; historically, Tech has dominated Wake Forest in these settings, outscoring them 111-53 across four such matchups.
Wake Forest, meanwhile, brings a desperate edge. Their 1-4 mark reflects a tough start, but they've got playmakers who can exploit any lapse. The Demon Deacons' passing game ranks middling in the conference, yet they've forced turnovers at a clip that could trouble Tech's young secondary. Interestingly, this series has tilted heavily toward Virginia Tech lately—winning five of the last seven encounters. Still, oddsmakers favor the Hokies by about 10 points, though nothing's guaranteed in the ACC these days.
As the clock ticks toward game time, Blacksburg is alive with maroon and orange, alumni flooding back for the festivities. The broadcast on The CW should capture the intensity, with Thom Brennaman calling the action. However, beyond the stats and strategies, these rivalries often hinge on that intangible spark—what might it reveal about both teams' seasons moving forward?