Ranking the 2014 ACC Bowl Games
By Joe Micik
Nov 28, 2014; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies tight end Bucky Hodges (7) celebrates with linebacker Ronny Vandyke (37) after recovering a blocked punt in the second quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
2014 ACC Bowl Games: #9
Military Bowl
Who: Cincinnati vs. Virginia Tech
Where: Annapolis, Maryland
When: December 27
Virginia Tech, the ACC representative in this game, honestly does not bring much to the table here.
The Hokies are extremely fortunate to be in a bowl game after having one of their worst seasons in a while. They came back on a sinking Virginia to capture a sixth win, and they got the regional bowl game they wanted with the Military Bowl. Here’s the question, though: what’s compelling about watching Virginia Tech?
Their defense under Bud Foster is fine this year, most of the time. On the other side of the ball, they have played some absolutely dreadful offensive games. Michael Brewer is not a quarterback you can trust for a big game, and the Hokies otherwise have a great deal of trouble advancing the ball.
Meanwhile, Cincinnati is allergic to defense — at least they were until they played horrific offensive teams UConn and Temple. Yet, somehow, the Bearcats found a way to win nine games. Gunner Kiel has been fine under center and may be the offensive player to watch in the game.
I suppose the game could be interesting in that either one is capable of anything, but it is easy to imagine Virginia Tech struggling when they have the ball and that might make this unenjoyable to watch.
Must-See Factor (out of 10): 3.5. I am picturing a game that is somewhat messy and frustrating, especially those rooting for ACC interests.