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The road from Huntington, West Virginia, to Blacksburg, Virginia includes almost 150 miles of the West Virginia Turnpike. For that stretch, there are only trees and mountains until you reach the state line where the mountains yield to the New River Valley. For the Marshall Thundering Herd, the stop at Virginia Tech is just one more on their road to the 2013 R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl. The Herd are 2-1 coming off a close loss to Ohio University. This is their final game before starting their Conference USA schedule in October.
The Hokies are looking to extend their record to 3-1 as well. Their only loss was in the season opener against National Champion Alabama. Virginia Tech’s strong suit is their defense, which held Alabama to just over 200 yards and only one offensive touchdown. That is an accomplishment in itself. The Hokies D has been credited with the wins in Eastern and Western Carolina as the shaky offense struggles to find their footing. Like Marshall, Virginia Tech moves to their conference schedule in week 5 and they need this home win to continue their momentum before facing ACC foe Georgia Tech.
Here is what to watch for during Saturday’s noon game televised on ESPNU. Look for Tech’s true Freshman Tight End Kalvin Cline to receive big passes from Logan Thomas. This offense is tuned and ready for a big performance. Marshall’s QB Rakeem Cato has a big order on his plate. With 7 TDs in 3 games and 2 interceptions, his accuracy is going to be more important than ever against Tech’s Defense. Saturday’s football game promises to be a great match-up.
