Dominating is an understatement. Virginia Tech’s defense smothered Florida State’s offense from the opening drive to the last. Bud Foster and the Hokies’ Lunch Pail defense spoiled Willie Taggart’s Seminole debut in crushing fashion in a 24-3 win.
The Hokies stifled Florida State quarterback Deondre Francois, forcing five turnovers, including three on the Seminoles’ final three possessions. Florida State running back Cam Akers fumbled and the Hokies recovered adding a dagger touchdown late in the fourth quarter. Even with the game no longer in doubt, the Hokies defense put a strangle hold on the game, picking off Francois twice.
More than half of Florida State’s 63 offensive snaps were no gains or negative plays, according to ESPN Stats and Info.
Of Florida State's 63 offensive plays tonight, 35 went for 0 or negative yards (55.5%).
That is the highest percentage of negative plays for the Seminoles since Nov, 25, 2006 against Florida. pic.twitter.com/qKWcOfgFlK
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) September 4, 2018
Virginia Tech defensive tackle Ricky Walker praised defensive coordinator Bud Foster for their dominating performance.
“Hats off to Coach Foster. He had a great game plan and we smothered those guys,” Walker praised Foster per Andy Bitter of the Athletic.
Florida State was smothered into submission to the point, the Seminoles were contained to screens and dump offs.
It was a great game plan to say the least. While there was concern over the inexperienced Hokies linebackers, however, those qualms were easily quieted as the game went along. It’s just one game, but it’s hard not push the Hokies ahead as a frontrunner in the ACC Coastal, especially the way Miami was manhandled by LSU on Sunday.
The Hokies should be favored in their next four games, leaving their next true test being an Oct. 6 battle against Notre Dame in Blacksburg.
Wow – @HokiesFB stormed into Tally and smothered the Seminoles. Guru Bud Foster took a bunch of talented fresh faces on D, molded them into strong unit. They figure to just get better. I Like the #Hokies spirit and toughness. 10/6 the Irish come to Lane Stadium. Sign us up!
— Chris Fowler (@cbfowler) September 4, 2018
That’s a month away. For now, the Hokies can celebrate a huge statement win that is sure to get everyone in the ACC and nation’s attention.
