4. Louisville's defense steps up in second half
Virginia Tech entered the game with one of the most fierce rushing attacks in the ACC. For the most part in the 1st half, that was the case. Tech continually was able to grind out first downs and keep possessions alive as well as dominate the line of scrimmage. With a 16-7 halftime score, it appeared that if the Hokies were able to replicate this performance in the 2nd half, the game would be theirs.
Luckily, Louisville has the likes of Jeff Brohm and Ron English heading the defense on the other side of the field. The Louisville defense had a tremendous turnaround in the 2nd half, preventing the Hokies from scoring and keeping the run game in check. Big salute to the guys up front on the defensive line who have been the backbone of not just the defense, but of the whole team, most of the season. When the Cardinals have needed big stops from the defense, those guys are there front and center to answer the call.