NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Vanderbilt’s first drive of the second half epitomized the Hokies’ 34-27 overtime loss to open the 2024 season.

After Virginia Tech (0-1) opened the third quarter with a touchdown, making it a one-score game, the Commodores (1-0) opted to attempt a 54-yard field goal. A delay of game pushed them back, however — a big win for a Tech defense who couldn’t stop anything in the first 30 minutes.

With Vandy punting, Ali Jennings set up deep to return the kick. He wasn’t the only Tech player wearing No. 0, though. Linebacker Keli Lawson, who dons the same number, was also on the field for that play. Instead of a touchback that would’ve given the Hokies an opportunity to tie the game at 17, Tech was flagged for an illegal substitution, putting the Commodores back in field goal range. Sophomore kicker Brock Taylor stepped up and nailed a 53-yarder, making it a two-possession game instead.

It was free points for Vanderbilt, a team that finished 2-10 last season and took the Hokies to overtime — and won. If that penalty hadn’t been committed, the ‘Dores would’ve been kicking for the tie at the end of the game — a 43-yard attempt Taylor pushed wide right — instead of for the win.

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