After a tough loss to Pittsburgh at home last Friday night, the Virginia Tech football team will look to get back into the win column on Saturday afternoon at Cal in an ACC battle. Having to fly cross-country after that loss is tough to do.
However, if there is one thing we've learned this season is that the Hokies are a resilient team and one that has overcome adversity. That will have to be the case on Saturday. With that said, here are three bold predictions for Saturday's game against the Golden Bears.
1. Virginia Tech records 1-plus takeaway
You might be thinking that is a bit bizarre, but truthfully, it's not. Virginia Tech has not forced a turnover since Week 2 against Old Dominion, which means three straight games without one against Power 4 Conference schools: Maryland, Boston College, and Pittsburgh.
The Hokies are one of the worst FBS teams in terms of turnover margin. They have turned it over nine times, and they didn't even force a turnover in two weeks ago at BC in a major nor'easter. That has to end at some point, and expect it to end this weekend in Northern California.
2. Ethan Grunkemeyer throws for 400-plus yards
Aside from two interceptions- one that was his fault and another that was ruled incorrectly by the officials- and a fumble, Ethan Grunkemeyer played more than well enough to win last week against Pitt. He threw for 434 yards and three touchdowns and led the Hokies down the field with some big completions to set them up for a game-winning field goal attempt.
Expect offensive coordinator Ty Howle to put the ball up in the air against Cal, as it is what Virginia Tech does. Expect more Luke Reynolds throughout the game and more shots downfield.
3. Marcellous Hawkins Jr. leads Virginia Tech in rushing
Virginia Tech's running game was nonexistent against the Panthers, finishing with just 65 yards. Jeffrey Overton Jr. led the Hokies with 46 yards on the ground, and Marcellous Hawkins Jr. had 32.
If Virginia Tech is going to have Grunkemeyer throw for 400-plus yards again, then getting the running game going will be key. Whether it's Overton or Hawkins, someone has to run the ball well enough to open up the passing game more. The offensive line has a lot of moving parts because of injuries, but after the success they had running the ball in the rain and wind at Boston College, it needs to get going again on Saturday.
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