Exit light
Enter night
Take my hand
We’re off to never-never land
“Enter Sandman,” Metallica
Well, the MVs were off to Lane Stadium; not quite neverland. This particular game, Virginia Tech was up against Syracuse University, and it was scheduled for a Thursday. It was definitely odd to wake up and attend class and then be zipping up our uniforms eight hours later. Nevertheless, it was gameday. We had a game to win!
Fireworks! (MV Online Content)
First Half
The first half was off to a great start as Hokie kicker John Love scored a 43-yard field goal, putting Virginia Tech in the lead at 3-0 against Syracuse. With six minutes left on the clock, running back Malachi Thomas made a 16-yard pass to wide receiver Da’Quan Felton. And with just under two minutes left in the first quarter, Love scored a 32-yard field goal, putting the Hokies in the lead at 13-0. Virginia Tech hit the ground running in the second quarter with another field goal by Love, putting the score at 16-0. Felton then makes a 62-yard pass from quarterback Kyron Drones. With the score now at 23-0, kicker Brady Denaburg from Syracuse scores a 43-yard field goal, giving the opposing team 3 points. Virginia Tech quickly speeds ahead with running back Bhayshul Tuten scoring a 3-yard touchdown.
A beautiful gameday sunset! (MV Online Content)
Halftime
It was now time for the Hokies to take a break off the field, and they very nicely handed the field over to the Marching Virginians. This show was extra special because we had the honor of competing against other marching bands across the United States in the Metallica Marching Band Competition: For Whom the Band Tolls! Our show consisted of famous works by the band, including “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “Fuel,” “Fade to Black,” “Sad But True,” “Wherever I May Roam,” “Creeping Death,” “Lux Æterna,” and the Hokie favorite “Enter Sandman.” The crowd in Lane Stadium during our performance even chimed in when we played “Enter Sandman!” The football team was ready to take on Syracuse for the third and fourth quarters, so we headed back up to our spot back in the stands after the show.
Hi, Hokie Bird! (MV Online Content)
Second Half
At the beginning of the second half, Virginia Tech received two points for a team safety. Soon after, Syracuse scores a touchdown, putting the score at 32-10, with the Hokies in the lead. With just 8 seconds left of the third quarter, Love scores a 24-yard field goal. The score was now 35-10. The fourth quarter stayed stagnant, with Love finishing out the game with another field goal. The Hokies won 38-10 against Syracuse.
The Hokies are now gearing up for their game against NC State on November 18th — we hope to see you there! For now, the MVs are preparing for our next performance in Lane Stadium. As always, go Hokies!