Hokie ClubNASHVILLE, Tenn. – As the college football season kicks off, Tech trails Vanderbilt 17-3 in the season opener at FirstBank Stadium. Despite being on the road, the Hokies are energized by the strong presence of Virginia Tech fans who have brought the electric atmosphere of Lane Stadium with them.
Facing this SEC opponent for the first time in 35 years, the Hokies’ offense got off to a slower start against a revitalized Vanderbilt squad. As the second quarter unfolded, the unit began to find its stride with kicker John Love scoring the Hokies’ first points of the season with a 40-yard field goal. Quarterback Kyron Drones gained some positive momentum with a 24-yard pass to receiver Jaylin Lane, who currently leads the team with 35 receiving yards. A bright spot for the Hokies has been Bhayshul Tuten’s kick returns, totaling 57 yards, including a 29-yard return in the first quarter. These flashes of potential suggest a stronger performance in the second half.
Tech’s defense has shown some flashes of strength in the first half. With less than a minute left in the second quarter, defensive end Antwaun Powell-Ryland and defensive tackle Wilfred Pene teamed up to sack Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, resulting in a five-yard loss. Earlier in the game, safety Mose Phillips III and linebacker Jaden Keller combined for a tackle for loss, pushing the Commodores back four yards to start the first quarter. Keller leads the team with five tackles, closely followed by Star Keonta Jenkins and safety Jalen Stroman, each with four. These defensive efforts highlight the Hokies' ability to disrupt their opponent's momentum.
The Hokies will receive the ball to start the second half, setting the stage for a potential comeback.