Virginia Tech Football: 3 positives from loss at Rutgers

The Hokies mounted a second-half comeback but fell short

I get it, digging yourself a 21-3 hole on the road is not a recipe for getting a victory, but given how long they had the ball in the first half, came away with just three points and gave up three touchdowns, including one with four seconds remaining until the half, you had to like their fight in the second half.

The defense played better in the third quarter, the offense got a touchdown pass from Drones to Felton then early in the fourth, Tuten scored on a short run to cut the deficit to 21-16. When the defense needed to come up with a stop, it appeared they were going to, but Rutgers running back Kyle Monangai bounced off the line and got to the outside on the left, and raced 55 yards for what turned out to be the clinching touchdown midway through the fourth quarter.

After being frustrated in the opening half, it was nice to see the Hokies respond in the third quarter, but as they got back in the game, they were not able to complete the comeback as the Scarlet Knights did what they do best, they ran the ball and took valuable time off the clock.

The Marshall game is not a “must-win” for Virginia Tech, however, it could go a long way into determining whether or not they are able to get to the six-win mark for a bowl big. They need to build off of these positives during the week and head on the road to try and get a win.