How and what to watch for Virginia vs. Virginia Tech

The Commonwealth Cup could be Justin Fuente’s last game on the sideline in Blacksburg if his 4-5 Virginia Tech Hokies can’t take down the 5-4 Virginia Cavaliers.

Both of these teams are very similar in terms of overall production, but they get it done in extremely different ways. Tech loves to run the ball and gets an average of 238 yards on the ground each week. Led by Kansas transfer running back Khalil Herbert, who has a total of 1020 yards, and has quickly become one of the top backs in the sport. The Cavs have a tough run defense though, allowing just 125 yards per game on the ground. They’re far more susceptible through the air, but the Hokies don’t throw the ball very effectively, as QB Hendon Hooker has been more of a threat with his legs than his arm recently.

Virginia is a pass-first offense that goes for over 250 yards in the air each week. That number could explode on Saturday as the Hokies give up nearly 300 yards passing every week on average. They’re not bad on the ground either, which could mean trouble for a VT team that gives up close to 200 yards on the ground each week.

These teams are trending in very different directions right now too. VT has lost all of their last four games, while the Cavaliers have won four straight.

Game Time/TV Channel/Streaming

You can watch Virginia vs. Virginia Tech on Saturday, Dec. 12 at 8:00 p.m. ET on the ACC Network, or you can stream it via the ESPN app with a cable or streaming login.

Point Spread, Totals, Odds, Trends

Point spread: Virginia vs. Virginia Tech (-3)
Point Total: 63
Money line: Virginia (+114) vs. Virginia Tech (-137)

Betting splits against the spread

Virginia: (73% of action, 52% of bets)
Virginia Tech: (27% of action, 48% of bets)

• Virginia is undefeated against the spread in their last five games.
• The Cavs have hit the over a lot recently, 13 times in their last 15 games
• VT has been solid on the point totals too, going over on eight of their last 16 games.
• Tech hasn’t fared as well against the spread though, going 1-5 ATS in their last six.

The Best Bet

To be honest, I’m not too sure why VT is favored in this one. UVA’s passing defense is bad, but Tech hasn’t been able to throw the ball much at all this season. The Hokies have a good run offense, but the Cavs are able to stop the run very well most of the time.

Pick: UVA +3

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