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Tulane, riding high with an impressive 11-2 record, is gearing up for the Military Bowl clash against Virginia Tech (6-6) in Annapolis, Md. While seeking a second consecutive 12-win season, the Green Wave is grappling with a series of adversities that add complexity to their bowl preparations.
Challenges and Changes at Tulane
Head coach Willie Fritz, leveraging 23 wins over two seasons, secured the position as Houston coach, leaving the coaching responsibilities to interim coach Slade Nagle. Star quarterback Michael Pratt has opted to sit out, focusing on preparations for the NFL draft, further complicating Tulane’s offensive strategy. Meanwhile, newly hired coach Jon Sumrall is not participating in bowl preparations, placing Nagle at the helm for key decisions.
Quarterback Dilemma and Offensive Adjustments
With Pratt’s absence, Nagle faces a quarterback dilemma, opting to play Kai Horton and Justin Ibieta in the upcoming game. Both quarterbacks will shoulder the responsibility of filling Pratt’s shoes, a challenging task given Pratt’s record-breaking achievements at Tulane. Horton, with limited pass attempts this season, and Ibieta, with minimal playing time, must step up to maintain Tulane’s offensive prowess.
Key Player Absences and Opt-Outs
Tulane enters the Military Bowl without key players, including guard Prince Pines, wideout Jha’Quan Jackson, defensive end Darius Hodges, and cornerback Jalen Monroe, all preparing for the NFL draft. Notably, leading receiver Chris Brazzell II and safety DJ Douglas have entered the transfer portal, further depleting the Green Wave’s roster. Overcoming these player absences presents a significant challenge for Tulane.
Virginia Tech’s Opt-Outs and Determined Players
While Virginia Tech also contends with opt-outs, including players seeking to halt a four-game bowl losing streak, running back Bhayshul Tuten, defensive end Antwaun Powell-Ryland, and cornerback Dorian Strong have chosen to play in the Military Bowl. Strong expressed his commitment to the team despite potential NFL opportunities, emphasizing the importance of the bowl game for personal growth.
Players to Watch at Virginia Tech
Tuten, leading Virginia Tech in rushing yards with 727, poses a significant threat to Tulane’s run defense, ranked No. 9 nationally. Powell-Ryland, with impressive stats in tackles for loss, sacks, and forced fumbles, adds defensive prowess to the Hokies. Quarterback Kyron Drones, with nearly 2,000 passing yards and a dual-threat capability, aims to make a mark against Tulane’s defensive lineup.
Bowl Game History and Expectations
Tulane’s last encounter ended in disappointment with a 26-14 loss to SMU in the American Athletic Conference championship game. Despite missing out on a New Year’s Six bowl, the Green Wave remains determined. Star running back Makhi Hughes, with 1,290 rushing yards, remains a crucial asset for Tulane in the upcoming bowl clash. With a 7-8 record in bowl games, Tulane seeks to replicate the success of last season’s Cotton Bowl victory.
Virginia Tech, with a 13-21 bowl game record, strives to break the streak of four consecutive bowl losses. The Hokies’ last bowl victory dates back to 2016, securing a 35-24 win over Arkansas in the Belk Bowl. This 10th all-time meeting between Tulane and Virginia Tech carries historical significance, with the Hokies holding a 5-4 lead and winning their last encounter in 1989 with a 30-13 victory at home.
As both teams prepare for the Military Bowl, the clash promises to be a test of resilience, adaptability, and the ability to overcome challenges amidst player absences and strategic adjustments. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the narrative for Tulane’s pursuit of a second consecutive 12-win season and Virginia Tech’s quest to end their bowl game drought.
