This evening, we will be fortunate enough to view the Orange Bowl. The game will be played between two teams, Virginia Tech and Stanford, that are among the best in the country. Both possess offenses capable of racking up points and defenses that can shut down opponents. It should be one of the most competitive games of the bowl season.
It is impossible to discuss Virginia Tech without mentioning their 0-2 start. After a season-opening loss to Boise State, the Hokies fell to FCS school James Madison. With their expectations dashed, Frank Beamer led his squad to an eleven game win streak and an ACC title.
After a remarkable turnaround, the Hokies find themselves playing against another elite team. The Cardinal's only loss this year was to Oregon, who will play in the BCS National Championship. Led by quarterback and Heisman runner-up Andrew Luck, Stanford has averaged over 40 points per game.
Comparing the stats is futile because both teams are dominant statistically. Instead, the guru has examined how these two teams have performed against opponents similar to the ones they will face in the Orange Bowl.
As mentioned, the Hokies opened the season against Boise State, an elite team with a pocket passing QB. Virginia Tech lost by just three points, but they allowed Broncos QB Kellen Moore to throw for 215 yards and three touchdowns with zero interceptions. Forget that the Hokies lead the nation with 22 INTs. Against a high caliber QB, they were unable to force turnovers.
Stanford's only game against a high-powered option offense came in their aforementioned matchup with Oregon. The Ducks style of play is very similar to that Virginia Tech. Despite the 52 points conceded, a careful observer will note that the Cardinal did a decent job of containing the Oregon offense. Stanford led at the half, falling at the end due to fatigue. Oregon's fast tempo has been a hot topic this season and it's clear that Stanford's defense simply wore down. Virginia Tech will be unable to drain the Cardinal defense like the Ducks did. Instead, the Stanford D will be on the sideline resting while Luck moves the chains against the Hokies secondary.
The guru selects Stanford with 18 confidence points.
January 3, 2011
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