A Historic Gridiron Clash
The Purdue Boilermakers and the Virginia Tech Hokies will face off in a highly anticipated matchup on September 23, 2023, at Purdue’s Ross-Ade Stadium. This game marks the renewal of a rivalry that dates back to 1954. The two teams have met 21 times, with Virginia Tech holding a 13-8 advantage.
Recent Contests
The last meeting between the two schools occurred in 2018, when Virginia Tech won 42-25 in Blacksburg. Prior to that, Purdue had won four consecutive games in the series, including a thrilling 35-31 victory in 2017 in West Lafayette.
Key Players and Matchups
Both Purdue and Virginia Tech boast talented rosters with several key players who could impact the outcome of the game.
Purdue:
- Aidan O’Connell, Quarterback: A fifth-year senior, O’Connell led the Boilermakers to a 9-4 record in 2022, throwing for 3,714 yards and 28 touchdowns.
- Charlie Jones, Wide Receiver: A transfer from Iowa, Jones caught 99 passes for 1,361 yards and seven touchdowns last season and is expected to be a major target for O’Connell.
- Jalen Graham, Running Back: A sophomore, Graham rushed for 616 yards and six touchdowns in 2022 and will be a key part of Purdue’s offense.
Virginia Tech:
- Grant Wells, Quarterback: A sophomore, Wells threw for 2,211 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2022 and is expected to take a step forward as the leader of the Hokies’ offense.
- Kaleb Smith, Running Back: A senior, Smith ran for 933 yards and 11 touchdowns last season and is a dynamic playmaker in both the running and passing games.
- Dax Hollifield, Linebacker: A senior, Hollifield led the Hokies with 107 tackles and 12 tackles for loss in 2022 and is one of the most experienced players on defense.
Coaching Matchup
Purdue: Jeff Brohm
- Record at Purdue: 66-43 (8 seasons)
- Brohm is known for his innovative offensive schemes and has led Purdue to two bowl games, including a Citrus Bowl victory in 2022.
Virginia Tech: Brent Pry
- Record at Virginia Tech: 8-5 (1 season)
- Pry is in his second season as head coach of the Hokies and has implemented a new defensive philosophy that has Virginia Tech playing with more speed and aggression.
Game Preview
The Purdue-Virginia Tech matchup is expected to be a close and competitive contest. Both teams have strengths and weaknesses, and the outcome of the game could hinge on key matchups and execution in all three phases of the game.
Purdue’s Strengths:
- Experienced offense led by O’Connell and Jones
- Strong running game with Graham
- Solid defense that has playmakers at all levels
Virginia Tech’s Strengths:
- Young but talented offense with potential to be explosive
- Physical defense led by Hollifield
- Home-field advantage
Purdue’s Weaknesses:
- Inexperience on the offensive line
- Lack of depth at wide receiver
- Pass rush that needs to generate more pressure
Virginia Tech’s Weaknesses:
- Wells’ ability to handle pressure
- Defensive line that can be susceptible to the run
- Secondary that can be exposed by big plays
Prediction
This game is too close to call, and it could go either way. Purdue has the experience on offense, but Virginia Tech has the home-field advantage and a motivated defense. The Hokies are a slight favorite, but Purdue has the potential to pull off an upset if they can execute their game plan and avoid turnovers.
Score Prediction: Virginia Tech 28, Purdue 24