From a fan’s perspective, one of the more frustrating parts about Virginia Tech’s 27-0 win over Delaware two weeks ago was probably the Hokies’ inability to find success on the ground. Tech’s rushing attack averaged just 2.9 yards per carry vs. the Blue Hens, and the Hokies struggled much of the day offensively.

That same rushing attack found its way vs. East Carolina. Virginia Tech finished the day with 287 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns, while averaging 4.6 yards per carry. The Hokies were able to wear down the East Carolina defensive front, and opened up the backend for several big pass plays.

Earlier in the week, Virginia Tech head coach Justin Fuente and running backs coach Zohn Burden were asked what made the Hokies’ rushing attack so successful. Their two answers were better blocking up front, and wearing down the East Carolina defense with 54 offensive plays in the first half.

After going back and watching both games, I can see what they meant by better blocking up front. First, let’s take a look at the Delaware game, and see an example of what went wrong.

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