Two Truths and a Lie From Virginia Tech Football's Aggravating Loss Against Duke

The 2024 season for the Virginia Tech football team is one giant nightmare. Week after week, slow starts, allowing explosive plays on defense, poor blocking along the offensive line, and questionable coaching decisions have all led up to a 5-6 record after a 31-28 loss at Duke Saturday night.

Now, with many more questions than answers, here are two truths and a lie about the Hokies' latest setback this season, which is turning into a lost season in Blacksburg.

Truth: Pop Watson needs to start against Virginia

Kyron Drones was inactive against the Blue Devils, which led to UCLA transfer Collin Schlee to start. He lasted just one quarter as he was injured on the final play of the opening quarter with what appeared to be a head injury after being tackled on a run. Enter freshman Pop Watson and Springfield, Mass. native played well.

He stepped up in the pocket and made some big passes, he was able to scramble with shoddy blocking by his offensive line and nearly led a comeback from down 14 points. Did he make mistakes? Yes. They were mistakes that a young QB is going to make being thrown into his first meaningful time in college, but overall, he was impressive. Give him the keys to the car against Virginia.

Truth: This was a very winnable game

Allowing big plays is just something the Hokies do in 2024. It just is. They can't help themselves. Three explosive plays, two on the Blue Devils first two drives of the game is not a recpie for success for any team, never mind one that can't get out of their own way.

Maalik Murphy did his best to keep the Hokies in the game with a pair of first-half interceptions by Dorian Strong that helped Virginia Tech grab a 17-14 lead in the second quarter. Then, of course, a big play from Duke allowed them to take a lead into halftime. Murphy underthrew receivers, receivers dropped balls and several three-and-outs throughout the game, and a fumble with under two minutes left wasn't enough for the Hokies to come back.

Lie: Don't worry, the Hokies will steamroll Virginia again

Last season at this time, the Hokies went into Charlottesville and rolled to a 55-17 rout of the Cavaliers to become bowl-eligible after entering the game 5-6, like they will this season. The problem is, Virginia needs the win to become bowl-eligible as well and with the 2024 Hokies, anything is possible. The vibes around this team are so different compared to last season that Tony Elliott and his team have a golden opportunity to come into Lane Stadium and end their rival's season on Thanksgiving Weekend.