Hokie ClubNORFOLK, Va. (AP) – Kyron Drones threw for a touchdown and rushed for a score to lead Virginia Tech to a 37-17 win over Old Dominion on Saturday at S.B. Ballard Stadium.
Drones completed 15 of 26 passes for 176 yards for the Hokies (2-1). The junior quarterback also ran for 117 yards on 12 carries. Running back Bhayshul Tuten added 115 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries. Jaylin Lane caught seven passes for 106 yards and a touchdown. Kicker John Love made field goals of 21, 32, and 41 yards.
The Hokies started quickly by scoring touchdowns on their first two possessions.
Drones hit a wide-open Lane on a post pattern for a 25-yard touchdown to cap the seven-play, 76-yard game-opening drive. The Virginia Tech quarterback extended the Hokies lead to 14-0 on the ensuing possession when he plunged into the end zone from a yard out on fourth-and-goal.
The Hokies began the second half with field goals on their first two possessions to stretch their advantage to 20-10. Tuten added touchdown runs of 16 and 22 yards in the fourth quarter and Love drilled a 41-yard field goal with 5:08 left in the game.
On defense, Antwaun Powell-Ryland had a dominant performance, recording four sacks for a total loss of 25 yards. Teammate Kelvin Gilliam Jr. added another sack, contributing an 11-yard loss. Late in the third quarter, cornerback Mansoor Delane made a crucial interception of a pass from quarterback Quinn Henicle, effectively disrupting the Monarchs' offensive rhythm.
THE TAKEAWAY
Virginia Tech: During the Frank Beamer era in Blacksburg, Virginia, the Hokies were renowned for their shutdown defense. Times change. But Virginia Tech’s philosophy hasn’t. The Hokies recorded two turnovers -– a fumble and an interception — in the win.
Next up the Hokies will be hosting Rutgers next weekend on Saturday, Sept. 21st at 3:30 p.m. ET. While this game is sold out, fans still seeking single-game ticket options for Rutgers are encouraged to visit SeatGeek, the official fan-to-fan ticket marketplace of Virginia Tech Athletics.