Marshall's football team, the Thundering Herd, has had its fair share of exciting matchups against Virginia Tech (Va Tech) over the years. While Va Tech has generally been the stronger program, Marshall has managed to pull off some impressive victories. Here are 5 ways Marshall beat Va Tech:
Game-Changing Plays
In many of the matchups between Marshall and Va Tech, the outcome has been decided by a single play or a series of plays that swung the momentum in favor of the Thundering Herd. Whether it was a long touchdown pass, a crucial interception, or a blocked kick, Marshall has often relied on big plays to take down their opponents.
Example: Byron Leftwich's 4th Quarter Comeback
In 2001, Marshall's quarterback Byron Leftwich led his team to a stunning 4th quarter comeback against Va Tech. Trailing 29-14 with just over 10 minutes remaining, Leftwich orchestrated a series of scoring drives that ultimately gave Marshall a 31-29 victory. The win marked one of the greatest comebacks in Marshall football history.Strong Defensive Performances
Marshall's defense has often been the key to their success against Va Tech. By limiting the Hokies' high-powered offense and making crucial stops on third and fourth down, the Thundering Herd has been able to keep the game close and give their offense a chance to win.
Example: Marshall's 1992 Shutout
In 1992, Marshall's defense turned in a dominant performance, shutting out Va Tech 12-0. The Thundering Herd held the Hokies to just 170 total yards and forced three turnovers, securing a hard-fought victory.Special Teams Excellence
Special teams have played a significant role in many Marshall-Va Tech matchups. Whether it's a game-winning field goal, a punt return touchdown, or a blocked kick, the Thundering Herd has often relied on their special teams unit to make the difference.
Example: Marshall's 2009 Upset
In 2009, Marshall's special teams unit helped secure a 21-10 upset victory over Va Tech. The Thundering Herd's kicker made two crucial field goals, and their punt return unit set up a touchdown with a long return.Exploiting Va Tech's Weaknesses
Marshall has often succeeded against Va Tech by exploiting the Hokies' weaknesses. Whether it's attacking a vulnerable secondary or taking advantage of a struggling rushing defense, the Thundering Herd has been able to identify and capitalize on Va Tech's mistakes.
Example: Marshall's 2014 Victory
In 2014, Marshall's offense exploited Va Tech's struggling secondary, throwing for 386 yards and two touchdowns in a 48-24 victory. The Thundering Herd's receivers consistently found open space and made big plays, taking advantage of the Hokies' defensive weaknesses.Coach Doc Holliday's Leadership
Coach Doc Holliday has been a key factor in Marshall's success against Va Tech. Holliday, who has been the Thundering Herd's head coach since 2010, has consistently prepared his team to face the Hokies and has made crucial in-game decisions to secure victories.
Example: Coach Holliday's Game Plan in 2013
In 2013, Coach Holliday devised a clever game plan that helped Marshall secure a 29-21 triple overtime victory over Va Tech. The Thundering Herd's offense was able to move the ball effectively, and their defense made crucial stops to secure the win.
FAQ Section:
What is the all-time record between Marshall and Va Tech?
+Va Tech leads the all-time series 12-2.
Who is the all-time leading rusher in the Marshall-Va Tech series?
+Marshall's Vinny Burnett holds the record with 345 rushing yards in the series.
What is the highest-scoring game in the Marshall-Va Tech series?
+The highest-scoring game in the series was a 2014 matchup that saw Marshall win 48-24.
In conclusion, Marshall's victories over Va Tech have been the result of a combination of game-changing plays, strong defensive performances, special teams excellence, exploiting Va Tech's weaknesses, and Coach Doc Holliday's leadership. These factors have contributed to some of the most memorable matchups in the series and have given the Thundering Herd a chance to compete against their in-state rivals.