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Game Preview Virginia Tech Hokies vs Louisville Cardinals
The Louisville Cardinals travel to Blacksburg for a pivotal ACC clash against the Virginia Tech Hokies. Louisville enters ranked No. 16 in the nation with a 6-1 record, while Virginia Tech sits at 3-5 and aims to build off a double-overtime victory over Cal.
Both programs are riding the momentum of their most productive rushing games of the season. Louisville ran for 317 yards in last week’s 38-24 win over Boston College, led by Isaac Brown’s 205-yard breakout. Virginia Tech matched that with 357 rushing yards in its win over Cal, paced by running back Marcellous Hawkins and dual-threat quarterback Kyron Drones, who each surpassed 100 yards.
Louisville’s defense remains its identity, ranking 14th nationally in total yards allowed and second in the ACC. However, the Cardinals have been vulnerable early — giving up nearly a third of their total points allowed this season in the first quarter.
Track real-time market updates and total movement for this matchup on the NCAAF odds and scores page.
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Line Movement and Odds
Oddsmakers opened Louisville around a 9-point favorite with a total near 51. Early money leaned toward the Cardinals after their balanced performance against Boston College, though Virginia Tech’s improving offense has kept the line stable midweek.
For consensus projections and late steam alerts, visit the NCAAF picks hub for expert breakdowns across the Week 10 board.
Louisville Cardinals Outlook
The Louisville Cardinals continue to win with defense and efficiency on the ground. Louisville allows only 286.3 total yards per game, good for 14th nationally, while holding ACC opponents under 87 rushing yards on average.
Running back Isaac Brown has become the offense’s centerpiece. He ranks second in the conference with 93.1 rushing yards per game and leads all qualified ACC players at 8.7 yards per carry. Brown has been a difference-maker in explosive play generation, producing 48 runs of 10-plus yards in his career. When he surpasses 100 rushing yards, the Cardinals are 8-1.
Quarterback Jack Plummer provides stability under center, but the team’s success depends on maintaining defensive intensity and minimizing early deficits.
Louisville Cardinals Injury Report
Isaac Brown (RB) – Probable (Leg)
Jarvis Brownlee Jr. (CB) – Questionable (Undisclosed)
Jamari Thrash (WR) – Questionable (Shoulder)
Dezmond Tell (DL) – Out (Knee)
Virginia Tech Hokies Outlook
The Virginia Tech Hokies have found life in the running game, averaging 231 rushing yards in ACC play — best in the conference. The one-two punch of Marcellous Hawkins and quarterback Kyron Drones gives the Hokies a dynamic backfield capable of controlling tempo and sustaining long drives.
Drones leads the team with six rushing touchdowns and has developed into a consistent dual-threat weapon. Hawkins complements him with power and vision between the tackles. Interim coach Philip Montgomery praised the physicality of both runners, citing improved blocking and post-contact yardage as keys to recent success.
Defensively, Virginia Tech must tighten against the run, allowing 158 yards per game overall. If the front seven limits Brown and forces Louisville into passing downs, the Hokies can make this game competitive into the fourth quarter.
Virginia Tech Hokies Injury Report
Kyron Drones (QB) – Probable (Undisclosed)
Marcellous Hawkins (RB) – Probable (Shoulder)
Da’Quan Felton (WR) – Questionable (Ankle)
Alan Tisdale (LB) – Questionable (Knee)
Nasir Peoples (S) – Out (Foot)
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
This game centers on which rushing attack can dictate pace. Louisville’s defense will try to contain the Hokies’ dual-threat ground game while relying on Brown’s big-play ability to offset Virginia Tech’s physical front.
If Louisville’s defensive front wins on early downs, it can force Drones into passing situations where the Hokies have struggled. For Virginia Tech, sustained drives and field-position control are essential to staying within striking distance.
Betting Trends
- Louisville is 6-1 straight up in its last seven games.
- Louisville is 5-2 against the spread in its last seven ACC matchups.
- Virginia Tech is 5-2 to the over this season.
- The Hokies are 4-1 ATS at home since 2024.
- The under is 7-3 in Louisville’s last ten road games.
- Louisville is 8-1 when Isaac Brown rushes for 100+ yards.
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Prediction
Louisville’s balance on both sides of the ball makes it a difficult matchup for Virginia Tech. Expect the Cardinals’ front seven to neutralize the Hokies’ rushing attack while Brown continues his breakout season. A strong defensive response early should allow Louisville to cover on the road.
Projected Score: Louisville 31, Virginia Tech 20
Best Bet: Louisville -9
Total Lean: Under 51
Scores and Stats Handicappers
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