Final Grades: VT Over Pitt

The Virginia Tech defense snuffed out much hope Pittsburgh had Saturday, with eight sacks in a 19-9 win. Having seen replays and thought it over, here's publisher Jason Stamm's exam of Virginia Tech's win:

Again, senior quarterback

A few times on Saturday, the running game looked like its same, predictable self from last season: let Thomas keep the ball and pound it up the middle. For whatever reason, the running game is in a funk. And no one seems to have a reason for it. Virginia Tech gained just 76 yards rushing the ball and 27 of that came from 16 carries by Thomas. Whatever bit of momentum redshirt freshman

Sophomore

Yes, the pass protection is there for the most part and that's something to build on. But Thomas was sacked three times and the running game is still non-existent. It's tough to pinpoint one area as a cause for the lack of productivity, but something has to change. The bye week comes at a great time for this group too, just to be able to find something in order to kick start the running game.

I know that officially, Virginia Tech might not be ranked No. 1 in total defense, but this defense, particularly the defensive line, is the best in the country. Like I hoped he would, sophomore

Senior

Earlier in the week, senior

It looks like senior kicker

Mixing Nicolas between a down lineman and linebacker looks to be a stroke of genius by defensive coordinator

As always, Lane Stadium was rocking before the kickoff. A light rain, wind and early start didn't help matters though and probably contributed to the Hokies falling about 700 short of a sellout. Still, it was a great atmosphere, considering a game short of offensive fireworks. That showed in the third quarter with a lengthy wave started by the student section, which always happens when fans get a little bored.