No. 9 Virginia Tech Heads to Charlottesville to Face No. 4 Virginia
Will Cash
Posted On January 13
No. 9 Virginia Tech (14-1) (3-0 Conf.) is coming into this game after barley escaping from Atlanta with a 3 point win over Georgia Tech. While No. 4 Virginia (15-0) (3-0 Conf.) is coming of a blowout win against Clemson and No. 12 Florida State. Both teams are undefeated in conference play and aadvance their resume for the Tournament.
How Virginia Tech Can Win:
Virginia Tech definitely had their worst shooting night of the season against Georgia Tech. The Hokies shot 18% from the three point line and only 29% from the field. Tech can simply not afford to do that against an UVA defense that only allows 51 points a game which is 1st in the nation. Virginia Tech will need to shoot well from three if they wish to beat the Cavaliers. The Hokies are also going to need to play lock down defense. UVA has an amazing defense and the Hokies will most likely not put up their averge 79.2 points per game, so, the Hokies will need to keep the game close on defense.
How Virginia Can Win:
Something that is looked over with all of Virginia Tech’s high powered offense has been their defense this season. Virginia Tech has only allowed 57 points a game this season. Virginia needs to take control of the paint. They need to find a way to score around the Hokies 6 foot 10 center Kerry Blackshear.
Players to Watch:
Virginia Tech needs Nickeil Alexander-Walker to continue his stellar play if the Hokies want to go into Charlottesville and hand the Cavaliers their first loss of the season. Last time the Hokies were in Charlottesville, Nickeil made 4 three’s including a huge 3 in OT that brought the Hokies within 1 and eventually lead them to the win.
If Virginia wants to defend their home court and stay undefeated, Kyle Guy will need to play strong for the Cavaliers. Against No. 12 FSU Kyle scored 21 points and shoot 5-6 from three. His 3 point shooting will be important for the Hokies in this game.
Score Prediction:
Will Cash: Virginia is a top team in the nation this year, but so is Virginia Tech. The Hokies will catch the Cavaliers looking ahead to the Duke game and pull of the upset in Charlottesville. Hokies: 65 Cavaliers: 63
Colin Gilley: Expect this game to be a close, low scoring game with many lead changes. In the end I think UVA will go on a run late in the game and pull away from the Hokies. Cavaliers: 73 Hokies: 61
Image Via: Amber Seals – USA Today
