The in-state rivalry between Virginia Tech and William & Mary is one of the most historic and intense in the country. With a combined history of over 350 years, these two schools have been competing in various sports for decades, with football being one of the most popular. In this article, we'll delve into the history of this rivalry, the current state of the two programs, and what makes this matchup so special.
History of the Rivalry
The rivalry between Virginia Tech and William & Mary dates back to 1903, when the two schools first met on the football field. Since then, the Hokies and Tribe have played each other 67 times, with Virginia Tech holding a 54-30-3 lead in the series. However, the rivalry extends beyond football, with the two schools competing in various sports such as basketball, baseball, and soccer.
Why This Rivalry Matters
So, why does this rivalry matter so much to the fans and players of both schools? For one, it's a matter of state pride. Both Virginia Tech and William & Mary are proud representatives of the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the winner of this matchup can claim bragging rights as the best team in the state. Additionally, the two schools have a long history of competition, with many of the games being closely contested and decided by a single score.
Current State of the Programs
Virginia Tech's football program has been one of the most successful in the country over the past two decades. With 26 bowl game appearances and 14 conference championships, the Hokies have established themselves as a powerhouse in the ACC. Led by head coach Justin Fuente, Virginia Tech is looking to continue its winning tradition and make a push for a national championship.
On the other hand, William & Mary's football program has been on the rise in recent years. With a new coaching staff and a talented young roster, the Tribe is looking to make some noise in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). While they may not have the same level of success as Virginia Tech, William & Mary has a rich history of producing talented players and competing at a high level.
What to Expect from the Matchup
When Virginia Tech and William & Mary take the field, fans can expect a hard-hitting, intense matchup. The Hokies will likely come out strong, looking to assert their dominance and prove why they're one of the top teams in the country. However, the Tribe will not back down, using their quickness and agility to try and outmaneuver the Hokies.
One of the key matchups to watch will be between Virginia Tech's powerful offense and William & Mary's stingy defense. The Hokies have a potent rushing attack, led by running back Deshawn McClease, while the Tribe has a talented secondary that can make plays on the ball.
On the other side of the ball, William & Mary's offense will look to exploit Virginia Tech's defense, which has been prone to giving up big plays in the past. The Tribe's quarterback, Hollis Mathis, is a dual-threat player who can make plays with his legs and arm, and he'll be looking to test the Hokies' defense.
What Makes This Rivalry Special
So, what makes this rivalry special? For one, it's the history and tradition that surrounds the matchup. The two schools have been competing for over 100 years, and the rivalry has been passed down through generations of fans and players.
Another factor that makes this rivalry special is the geographic proximity between the two schools. Virginia Tech and William & Mary are both located in the state of Virginia, which adds to the rivalry's intensity. Fans from both schools are often neighbors, coworkers, and friends, which can make the matchup even more personal.
Finally, the rivalry between Virginia Tech and William & Mary is special because of the pride and bragging rights that are on the line. The winner of this matchup can claim to be the best team in the state, which is a source of pride for both schools.
A Look Back at Past Matchups
Looking back at past matchups between Virginia Tech and William & Mary, it's clear that this rivalry has been marked by intensity and competitiveness. One of the most memorable games in recent history was the 2014 matchup, which saw the Hokies come from behind to win 34-27.
Another notable game was the 2001 matchup, which saw the Tribe pull off a stunning upset, winning 31-20. The game was marked by a strong defensive performance from William & Mary, which held Virginia Tech's high-powered offense to just 20 points.
What is the history of the rivalry between Virginia Tech and William & Mary?
+The rivalry between Virginia Tech and William & Mary dates back to 1903, with the two schools competing in various sports over the years.
Which school has won more games in the rivalry?
+Virginia Tech has won 54 games in the rivalry, while William & Mary has won 30.
What makes this rivalry special?
+The rivalry between Virginia Tech and William & Mary is special because of the history and tradition that surrounds the matchup, as well as the geographic proximity between the two schools.
We hope you've enjoyed this in-depth look at the rivalry between Virginia Tech and William & Mary. Whether you're a die-hard Hokies fan or a loyal Tribe supporter, this matchup is sure to be an exciting and intense competition. Share your thoughts on the rivalry in the comments below!