The world of college football is filled with intense rivalries that span decades, and one of the most exciting matchups is between the Virginia Tech Hokies and the Penn State Nittany Lions. While they may not be traditional rivals in the classical sense, their meetings on the gridiron are always highly anticipated and closely watched.
For fans of both teams, the Virginia Tech Hokies vs Penn State Nittany Lions rivalry is more than just a game - it's a clash of two proud programs with rich histories and passionate fan bases. In this article, we'll delve into the history of this rivalry, highlight some of the most memorable moments, and explore what makes this matchup so special.
The Early Years: A Series of Infrequent Meetings
The first meeting between Virginia Tech and Penn State dates back to 1916, when the Hokies were still known as the Virginia Polytechnic Institute. The Nittany Lions won that initial matchup 14-0, and over the next several decades, the two teams would meet sporadically. However, it wasn't until the 1980s that the series began to gain more traction.
A Series of Close Calls and Upsets
One of the defining characteristics of the Virginia Tech-Penn State rivalry is the prevalence of close games and stunning upsets. In 1987, the Hokies pulled off a shocking 38-9 victory over the Nittany Lions, who were ranked #10 in the country at the time. This win marked a turning point in the series, as it showed that Virginia Tech was a force to be reckoned with.
Over the years, the series has seen its fair share of nail-biters. In 2002, the Hokies won a thrilling 35-32 matchup in triple overtime. Five years later, Penn State exacted revenge with a 17-14 victory that came down to the wire.
The Big Ten and ACC Era: A New Era of Competition
In 1991, Penn State joined the Big Ten Conference, while Virginia Tech became a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in 2004. Despite the change in conference affiliations, the rivalry between the two schools continued to grow.
In 2012, the Hokies and Nittany Lions met in a non-conference matchup, with Virginia Tech emerging victorious 17-14. The win marked the Hokies' third straight victory over Penn State, and it solidified their position as a major player in the college football landscape.
What Makes This Rivalry So Special?
So, what sets the Virginia Tech-Penn State rivalry apart from other college football matchups? Here are a few reasons why this series is so unique:
- Geographic Proximity: The two schools are located within a few hours of each other, making it easy for fans to travel to away games.
- Similar Values: Both Virginia Tech and Penn State are known for their strong academic programs and commitment to athletics excellence.
- Passionate Fan Bases: The Hokies and Nittany Lions have some of the most dedicated and passionate fan bases in college football.
Notable Moments in the Series
Here are a few notable moments in the Virginia Tech-Penn State rivalry:
- 1987: Virginia Tech pulls off a stunning 38-9 upset over #10 Penn State.
- 2002: The Hokies win a thrilling 35-32 matchup in triple overtime.
- 2012: Virginia Tech emerges victorious 17-14, marking their third straight win over Penn State.
Gallery of Virginia Tech Hokies vs Penn State Nittany Lions
FAQs
What is the all-time series record between Virginia Tech and Penn State?
+The all-time series record between Virginia Tech and Penn State is 4-6 in favor of the Nittany Lions.
What is the most recent meeting between Virginia Tech and Penn State?
+The most recent meeting between Virginia Tech and Penn State took place in 2013, with the Nittany Lions winning 17-14.
What is the highest attendance figure for a Virginia Tech-Penn State game?
+The highest attendance figure for a Virginia Tech-Penn State game is 105,051, which occurred in 2009 at Beaver Stadium.
In conclusion, the Virginia Tech Hokies vs Penn State Nittany Lions rivalry is a unique and special series that has captured the hearts of fans on both sides. With a rich history, passionate fan bases, and a series of close games and stunning upsets, this matchup is always highly anticipated and closely watched.