Inside the Game: Hurricanes vs. Hokies

This week in our ‘Inside the Game’ breakdown we’re going to take a look at a big game on Saturday with the #9 and #11 teams going face to face in an important match up to stay in the top 10 and BCS hunt. The first time since 2005 that both teams are ranked going into this game, both Miami and Virginia Tech have started out strong and are looking to bring their programs back into the upper echelon of football programs in the nation. This game will be a turning point for both teams. Let’s take a look at the quarterbacks from each team and what they must do for their team to come out on top.

Jacory Harris (Hurricanes): This sophomore quarterback is seeing the field well and finding the mismatches that have helped his team to a 2-0 record. Miami is averaging 35.5 points and leads the ACC with 465.0 yards of total offense per game. Harris has done a great job of spreading the ball around to his vast array of talented receivers and running backs, making it difficult for defenses to put pressure on Harris. Harris needs to continue his exceptional play that he has shown in his games against Florida State and Georgia Tech. Getting out to a good start, getting all of his weapons in sync and moving the ball down the field will be important early, to put the Hokie defense on their toes.

Tyrod Taylor (Hokies):Even though the Hokies lost their first game to #5 Alabama, Taylor has responded well and led his team to two consecutive victories, including a game winning touchdown pass last week against Nebraska. This junior quarterback needs to use the home field to his advantage, getting the crowd involved early and putting doubt into the Hurricane defense that they can contain him. The Canes will try and pressure Taylor into making mistakes with the football. He must remain poised and get the ball into the hands of his top reeiver, Ryan Williams, who already has 6 touchdowns on the year. Tyrod has a lot of pressure on him to lead his team to win this game, and he must use his feet and his arm to make a statement on the national stage.

Both teams will come out firing and both quarterbacks will play well. Even though the Hokies are at home, the Hurricanes seem to be on a road to meet destiny. This great game will have a phenomenal finish, but the Canes will come out on top.

EverydayQB prediction: Hurricanes 24, Hokies 17