The Virginia Tech Hokies are set to face off against the Louisville Cardinals in a thrilling college football matchup. As both teams look to assert their dominance, there are several key matchups to watch that could make all the difference in the outcome of the game.
From the quarterbacks to the defensive lines, each position will play a crucial role in determining the winner of this highly anticipated matchup. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the five key matchups to watch as the Hokies and Cardinals clash on the gridiron.
Matchup 1: Hokies' QB Braxton Burmeister vs. Cardinals' Defense
The first key matchup to watch is the Hokies' quarterback, Braxton Burmeister, as he faces off against the Cardinals' defense. Burmeister has been a force to be reckoned with this season, throwing for over 1,500 yards and 12 touchdowns. However, the Cardinals' defense has been stout, allowing just 18 points per game. If Burmeister can find a way to exploit the Cardinals' defense, it could be a long day for Louisville.
Why This Matchup Matters
The outcome of this matchup will have a significant impact on the game's overall outcome. If Burmeister can find success against the Cardinals' defense, it will open up opportunities for the Hokies' running game and allow them to control the tempo of the game. On the other hand, if the Cardinals' defense can shut down Burmeister, it will put pressure on the Hokies' running game to perform.
Matchup 2: Cardinals' QB Malik Cunningham vs. Hokies' Defense
Another key matchup to watch is the Cardinals' quarterback, Malik Cunningham, as he faces off against the Hokies' defense. Cunningham has been a dynamic player this season, throwing for over 1,000 yards and rushing for over 500 yards. However, the Hokies' defense has been solid, allowing just 20 points per game. If Cunningham can find a way to exploit the Hokies' defense, it could be a big day for the Cardinals.
Why This Matchup Matters
The outcome of this matchup will have a significant impact on the game's overall outcome. If Cunningham can find success against the Hokies' defense, it will open up opportunities for the Cardinals' running game and allow them to control the tempo of the game. On the other hand, if the Hokies' defense can shut down Cunningham, it will put pressure on the Cardinals' running game to perform.
Matchup 3: Hokies' RB Raheem Blackshear vs. Cardinals' LB Yasir Abdullah
The third key matchup to watch is the Hokies' running back, Raheem Blackshear, as he faces off against the Cardinals' linebacker, Yasir Abdullah. Blackshear has been a workhorse for the Hokies this season, rushing for over 500 yards and 5 touchdowns. However, Abdullah has been a tackling machine for the Cardinals, recording over 50 tackles this season. If Blackshear can find a way to get past Abdullah, it could be a big day for the Hokies.
Why This Matchup Matters
The outcome of this matchup will have a significant impact on the game's overall outcome. If Blackshear can find success against Abdullah, it will open up opportunities for the Hokies' offense and allow them to control the tempo of the game. On the other hand, if Abdullah can shut down Blackshear, it will put pressure on the Hokies' passing game to perform.
Matchup 4: Cardinals' WR Tutu Atwell vs. Hokies' CB Jermaine Waller
The fourth key matchup to watch is the Cardinals' wide receiver, Tutu Atwell, as he faces off against the Hokies' cornerback, Jermaine Waller. Atwell has been a big-play receiver for the Cardinals this season, catching over 30 passes for over 500 yards and 5 touchdowns. However, Waller has been a shutdown corner for the Hokies, recording over 20 tackles and 2 interceptions this season. If Atwell can find a way to get past Waller, it could be a big day for the Cardinals.
Why This Matchup Matters
The outcome of this matchup will have a significant impact on the game's overall outcome. If Atwell can find success against Waller, it will open up opportunities for the Cardinals' offense and allow them to control the tempo of the game. On the other hand, if Waller can shut down Atwell, it will put pressure on the Cardinals' running game to perform.
Matchup 5: Hokies' DE Amare Barno vs. Cardinals' LT Adonis Boone
The fifth and final key matchup to watch is the Hokies' defensive end, Amare Barno, as he faces off against the Cardinals' left tackle, Adonis Boone. Barno has been a pass-rushing machine for the Hokies this season, recording over 5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss. However, Boone has been a solid blocker for the Cardinals, allowing just 2 sacks this season. If Barno can find a way to get past Boone, it could be a big day for the Hokies.
Why This Matchup Matters
The outcome of this matchup will have a significant impact on the game's overall outcome. If Barno can find success against Boone, it will open up opportunities for the Hokies' defense and allow them to control the tempo of the game. On the other hand, if Boone can shut down Barno, it will put pressure on the Hokies' secondary to perform.
Gallery of Hokies vs Cardinals
What is the predicted score of the Hokies vs Cardinals game?
+The predicted score of the Hokies vs Cardinals game is Hokies 24, Cardinals 20.
Who is the starting quarterback for the Hokies?
+The starting quarterback for the Hokies is Braxton Burmeister.
What is the record of the Hokies this season?
+The record of the Hokies this season is 5-2.
We hope you enjoyed this article on the Hokies vs Cardinals matchup. Who do you think will win the game? Let us know in the comments below!