Lane Stadium and Enter Sandman make a 3:30 kickoff on ACC Network feel bigger. Virginia Tech (4-2, 1-2 ACC) hosts Georgia Tech (2-3, 1-1), and both teams need a league win to stay in the middle of the pack.
Virginia Tech insider Ruthanne Dellinger literally jumps when the defense makes a stop. She's equally excited about Ethan Grunkemeyer, who has completed 73 percent of his passes for 1,734 yards and 12 touchdowns. Georgia Tech insider Wendell Quist insists everything is physics. He brings momentum from last Saturday's 28-25 win over Duke, behind Alberto Mendoza's accurate passing, but admits it's been a heavy week.
Linebacker and captain Kyle Efford, a four-year starter with 250 career tackles, has retired. Leading rusher Justice Haynes is doubtful, and running back Malachi Hosley is out. The Yellow Jackets are also missing cornerback Daiquan White and safety Fenix Felton. Virginia Tech is without linebacker George Ballance, and three offensive linemen are questionable. The Hokies lost 25-20 at Cal last week. Wind in the mid-20s could make the passing game tougher.
Our call: Virginia Tech 35, Georgia Tech 25.