Stock Watch: Miami Game
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The magnitude of this game can't be explained in words. It's a gigantic clash between two nationally recognized programs, both looking for a spot in the ACC title game. This game will go a long way in deciding who represents the Coastal division, with Duke also still in the race. Ahead of Thursday's clash in south Florida, here's whose stock is on the rise and whose is on the way up.
STOCK UP
QB Logan Thomas on the ground, Virginia Tech
The massive quarterback eclipsed almost 100 yards in the loss to Clemson on the ground, rushing for a touchdown. More option needs to be used, but it was good to see the junior make an impact with his legs, something we haven't seen much this year.
Expect some designed runs for him against a weak Miami defense. It could be a big day for the Lynchburg, Va. native.
WR Corey Fuller, Virginia Tech
The senior has put up at least 80 yards receiving in the last three games, with a touchdown in each. He has become a very viable option for Thomas under center and has been one of the few pleasant surprises of the team.
In his last go against Miami, he will have a chance to make some big catches over the middle in this critical battle. He has had a knack for making a big catch in many games this season, catching one for at least 20 yards in all but one game this season.
Coastal Division Clarity
The ACC, from the outside, looks well short of pretty. It's been a tough season with no national contender, which has been the case for a long while. This win should propel a team back into a little bit of spotlight opposite of Clemson and Florida State.
Let's face it, if Duke makes the ACC title game, it would look like a massive joke, despite the solid team down in Durham having a great season. One of these teams can take command of the division with little time left to go. Hey, what else did you want? Not much going right, or up, for either of these teams.
STOCK DOWN
QB Stephen Morris and RB Duke Johnson, Miami
Two of the most important players in the team's offense, both have struggled for the last couple weeks. Morris has three interceptions and one touchdown in the air over the last three games, all losses, while Johnson, who started the season with 135 yards on seven carries, has 96 yards on 31 carries over the same span.
RB Michael Holmes, Virginia Tech
It appears that his carries may be numbered moving forward with freshman J.C. Coleman and junior Tony Gregory perhaps getting most of the touches. Considered "the next big thing," Holmes may fall deep down the depth chart and become a forgotten man with other backs having an opportunity to prove their worth.
With coach Frank Beamer saying he wants to find two backs and not use four, Holmes may be on the outside looking in. If he does get a few chances in this game, he will have to make the most out of them.
Chances of making a bowl for the Hokies
Gotta win three. Get this one, and you have to feel good about winning at Boston College and home to Virginia. Lose this one, and you face a must win against Florida State next week.
It looks like a long shot, but if any team can turn it around, it's Virginia Tech. Time to put up or shut up. Let's see what these guys got.