(Image via cdn.fansided.com)
On Monday, December 31st at 12 pm EDT, Virginia Tech and Cincinnati will kick off their 3rd postseason meeting in the past decade. The last time these two teams meet was in the 2014 Military Bowl where Virginia Tech defeated Cincinnati 33-17. These teams also faced off in the 2009 Orange Bowl where Virginia Tech won 20-7.
Key Matchup
One matchup you’ll want to watch is Cincinnati’s running back Michael Warren II vs the Virginia Tech defense. Over the course of the season, Virginia Tech has struggled in defending the run game. The Hokies are allowing an average of 206.5 rushing yards per game and they rank 105th among FBS teams in run defense.
Players to Watch
For the Hokies, Ryan Willis will be the factor in the game. In his last outing, Willis threw for 312 yards and 4 touchdowns. For the Hokies to win, they’ll need Willis to have another game
Cincinnati’s running back Michael Warren II could be in for a big game. The Hokies have one of the worst rushing defenses in the NCAA this season. They gave up 492 rushing yards vs Pitt, 219 yards vs Boston College, and 465 yards vs Georgia Tech. Warren II could be in store for a 100+ yard game.
Score Prediction
Colin Gilley: This game will be a shootout. I predict the Hokies will jump out to an early 17 point lead that Cincinnati will never be able to full recover from. I predict Willis earning the Military Bowl MVP as he throws for over 300 yards and 3 touchdowns. Hokies: 27 Cincinnati: 20
