The world of college football is filled with intense rivalries that span decades, with some of the most passionate and dedicated fan bases in all of sports. One such rivalry is the one between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion, two universities with a rich history and a deep-seated dislike for one another. In this article, we'll delve into the history of this rivalry, exploring the key moments, players, and games that have shaped the narrative between these two Virginia-based schools.
Early Years and the Formation of the Rivalry
The rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion is a relatively recent development, with the two schools first meeting on the gridiron in 1986. However, it wasn't until the early 2000s that the rivalry began to gain traction, with both schools experiencing a resurgence in their football programs. The two teams have since met 11 times, with Virginia Tech holding a 10-1 advantage in the series.
Key Moments and Games
There have been several key moments and games throughout the history of the Virginia Tech-Old Dominion rivalry. One of the most notable came in 2018, when Old Dominion pulled off a stunning 49-35 upset over the Hokies at Foreman Field. The win marked the Monarchs' first victory over a Power Five opponent in program history and sent shockwaves throughout the college football world.
Another notable game came in 2015, when Virginia Tech edged Old Dominion 38-34 in a back-and-forth contest at Lane Stadium. The win marked the Hokies' 10th straight victory over the Monarchs and capped off a thrilling game that saw multiple lead changes and a dramatic finish.
The Rivalry's Impact on Recruiting and State Pride
The rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion has significant implications for recruiting and state pride. Both schools are located in the state of Virginia, and the rivalry has become a key factor in the recruitment of top high school talent from within the state. The two schools often find themselves competing for the same recruits, and the outcome of the annual matchup can have a significant impact on the recruitment process.
In terms of state pride, the rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion is about more than just football. It's about bragging rights and the opportunity to claim superiority over a rival school. The two schools have a deep-seated dislike for one another, and the rivalry has become a source of pride and identity for fans of both schools.
The Future of the Rivalry
As the rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion continues to grow and evolve, it's likely that we'll see even more intense and competitive matchups in the future. The two schools have a long history of producing talented football players, and the annual matchup has become a key date on the college football calendar.
In 2020, the two schools announced a six-game series that will run from 2020 to 2026. The series will see the Hokies and Monarchs meet annually, with the location of the game alternating between Lane Stadium and S.B. Ballard Stadium.
A Rivalry Built on Respect
Despite the intense rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion, there is a deep-seated respect between the two schools. The rivalry is built on a foundation of mutual admiration and a desire to be the best. The two schools have a long history of producing talented football players, and the annual matchup has become a key date on the college football calendar.
In a 2020 interview, Virginia Tech head coach Justin Fuente praised the Old Dominion program, saying, "They're a talented team, and they're well-coached. We're going to have to be at our best to come out on top."
Old Dominion head coach Bobby Wilder has also spoken highly of the Virginia Tech program, saying, "They're a top-notch program, and they're always going to be a challenge. We're looking forward to the opportunity to compete against them."
Conclusion
The rivalry between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion is a unique and fascinating aspect of college football. Built on a foundation of mutual respect and a desire to be the best, the rivalry has become a key date on the college football calendar. As the two schools continue to compete on the gridiron, it's likely that we'll see even more intense and competitive matchups in the future.
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Gallery of Virginia Tech vs Old Dominion
FAQs
Who has won the most games in the Virginia Tech-Old Dominion rivalry?
+Virginia Tech has won 10 of the 11 meetings between the two schools.
Where is the annual matchup between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion typically played?
+The location of the game alternates between Lane Stadium (Virginia Tech) and S.B. Ballard Stadium (Old Dominion).
What is the longest winning streak in the Virginia Tech-Old Dominion rivalry?
+Virginia Tech holds the longest winning streak in the series, with 10 consecutive victories from 1995 to 2017.