Virginia Tech at North Carolina Odds
| Virginia Tech Odds | +3 [BET NOW] |
| North Carolina Odds | -3 [BET NOW] |
| Moneyline | +120/-143 [BET NOW] |
| Over/Under | 57.5 [BET NOW] |
| Time | 12:00 p.m. ET |
| TV | ABC |
Under the tutelage of Braxton Burmeister and Quincy Patterson at quarterback, Virginia Tech has fielded a 2-0 record to start the season. Hendon Hooker had one of the best touchdown-to-interception ratios in 2019 and won the starting job before missing the past few weeks due to COVID-19 and conditioning. That changes this week, as head coach Justin Fuente says Hooker is a "full go" for the clash with North Carolina.
The biggest news from the Hokies' first two weeks of play is Kansas transfer Khalil Herbert. The running back is averaging 276.5 all-purpose yards through two games between rushing, receiving and returning kickoffs. Herbert has been deadly on runs in the middle, with 10 carries for 181 yards and two touchdowns.
.@JuiceHerbert closes the door on Duke! 🚪🧃#Hokies | @HokiesFBpic.twitter.com/ityD17wG3r
— ACC Digital Network (@theACCDN) October 3, 2020
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North Carolina's rush defense presents the toughest challenge to date for the Hokies. The Heels rank in the top five in defensive rushing success rate but have struggled in short-yardage situations. Specifically, a rank of 49th or lower in power success and stuff rate suggests North Carolina may have an issue getting Virginia Tech's offense off the field.
After two games against Syracuse and Boston College, the North Carolina offense may not be clicking on all cylinders. The early numbers in success rate suggest the Tar Heels are moving the ball at will, but a lack of finishing drives combined with no deep passes by Sam Howell leave question marks. Howell has yet to complete a pass over 20 yards, per Sport Source Analytics.
Virginia Tech played without 23 players against NC State and missed 21 players against Duke. The Hokies are expected to be at full strength defensively and welcome the return of Hooker. Of the 250-plus snaps between the offensive linemen, only six run disruptions have been recorded. Considering North Carolina's struggles in the trenches on short rushing situations, Virginia Tech and the Khalil Herbert show are looking to upset the Heels.
The Bet: Virginia Tech +5 or better.
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