Notable Numbers: Virginia Tech vs. Marshall

In its return to Lane Stadium, Virginia Tech football defeated Marshall to the tune of a 31-14 victory and finished Saturday’s game with some noteworthy stats. 

For a deeper look at the home opener, read the notable numbers below, presented by Carter Bank & Trust. 

Stats with Salas

Party like it's 2009
While 2024 marks the 25th anniversary of the 1999 undefeated regular season team, it's looking a lot more like the 2009 season. The Hokies opened the season in Atlanta in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff against an SEC team. Tech lost 34-24 to Alabama. In week two, Tech won the home opener against Marshall, 52-10. That team would go on play in the Chick-fil-A Bowl against Tennessee and finish with a 10-3 record.

All You Need Is Love
In the second quarter of the Marshall game, kicker John Love hit a 42-yard field goal to give Tech a 10-0 lead. Love has made 18 field goals in a row going back to the game against Wake Forest last season. He's just four made field goals shy of the record since 1987 set by Brandon Pace. Pace made 22 in a row from 2005 at Virginia to 2006 vs. Virginia.

Return to Sender
Jaylin Lane scored on a 58-yard punt return to end the first quarter. It marks the 49th punt return and 65th kick or punt return touchdown since BeamerBall started in 1987. The last time Tech had a punt return for a score was in 2022 when Tucker Holloway returned a punt 90-yards against Georgia Tech with 50 seconds remaining in the second quarter. 

UniWatch
Yesterday's game marked just the second time in the Pry era that the Hokies wore maroon helmets, maroon jerseys and white pants. The previous time was on Sept. 22, 2022 against West Virginia in a Thursday night game in Lane Stadium. 

The Streak Continues
Saturday's game marked the 372nd consecutive game during which Virginia Tech has scored. The Hokies are in 4th place in both the all-time and active streak lists.

Tech Playmakers

This One Counts 
Tech’s offense has no shortage of playmakers, and multiple skill position players make an impact on special teams. Wide receiver Jaylin Lane’s ability to return punts was on full display against the Thundering Herd. To conclude the first quarter, Lane dashed his way through multiple defenders for the game’s first score, a 58-yard punt return touchdown. The fifth-year wideout made the most of the opportunity after his punt return touchdown in Lane Stadium last season was called back after a penalty. This season, Lane has proven to be a constant bright spot on the offense in the first two contests, averaging nearly 13 yards per reception. He also tied for the team lead in receptions with four and a long of 20 yards.

Holding Down the Fort  
With the absence of veteran safety Jalen Stroman, senior Jaylen Jones stepped up in a big way when his name was called. In the second year of his transition from wide receiver to safety, Jones played well in his first start of the season. The Richmond, Virginia native recorded two pass breakups and a pair of solo tackles. Earlier in the week, during the team’s weekly press conference, “We can't let anybody come in here and disrespect us,” Jones stated. “So that's just a big thing for us. It's a pride thing for sure." The talented defensive back doubled down on his words with contributions in a defensive effort that allowed only 129 passing yards.

No Fly Zone
Racking up tackles and breaking up passes, linebacker Keli Lawson and safety Mose Phillips put their stamp on the Hokies’ first win. Co-leading the team in tackles (5) alongside linebacker Sam Brumfield, this dynamic duo made it difficult for Marshall quarterback Stone Earle to complete passes. Lawson registered three pass breakups and a near interception in the second half, while Phillips recorded two of his own. Both players constantly made plays across the field, which was highlighted by Phillips’ crucial sack during Marshall’s second drive of the game. The big stop was followed by a missed field goal, giving the Hokies even more momentum. Overall, Tech’s defense was stingy all contest long, with 12 total pass breakups.

Make Your Pledges Count

The Hokies notched their first win of the season against Marshall, and your support doesn't have to stop after gameday. Pledge Per is a great way to support Tech’s football program after every win. Fans can give based on metrics such as wins ($50), touchdowns ($7) and sacks ($3). During the home opener, Tech scored four touchdowns and recorded two sacks. Make the first win even more special and make a pledge today.