| Conf. | Overall | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Team | W | L | T | W | L | T | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| No. 1 Miami (FL) | – | 11 | – | 1 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| No. 2 Notre Dame | – | 12 | – | 1 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| No. 3 Florida State | – | 10 | – | 2 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Northern Illinois | – | 9 | – | 2 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| No. 15 Penn State | – | 8 | – | 3 | – | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| No. 17 Pittsburgh | – | 8 | – | 3 | – | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| No. 21 West Virginia | – | 8 | – | 3 | – | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Syracuse | – | 8 | – | 4 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Southwestern Louisiana | – | 7 | – | 4 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Akron | – | 6 | – | 4 | – | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| South Carolina | – | 6 | – | 4 | – | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Virginia Tech | – | 6 | – | 4 | – | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Louisiana Tech | – | 5 | – | 4 | – | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Army | – | 6 | – | 5 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Louisville | – | 6 | – | 5 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| East Carolina | – | 5 | – | 5 | – | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tulsa | – | 6 | – | 6 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Southern Miss | – | 5 | – | 6 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tulane | – | 4 | – | 8 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Navy | – | 3 | – | 8 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Rutgers | – | 2 | – | 7 | – | 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Boston College | – | 2 | – | 9 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Memphis State | – | 2 | – | 9 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cincinnati | – | 1 | – | 9 | – | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Temple | – | 1 | – | 10 | – | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Rankings from AP Poll | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The 1989 Virginia Tech Hokies football team represented Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University as an independent during the 1989 NCAA Division I-A football season. Led by third-year head coach Frank Beamer, the Hokies finished the season with a record of 6–4–1.[1] The team played its home games at Lane Stadium in Blacksburg, Virginia.
Virginia Tech opened the season with a 29–3 win over Akron, then rallied to tie South Carolina 17–17 on the road.[2] The Hokies fell 27–7 at No. 7 Clemson before rebounding with a 23–0 shutout of Temple.[3] After a bye week, Tech upset No. 9 West Virginia 12–10 in Morgantown, then returned home for a 41–7 loss to No. 19 Florida State.[4]
In late October, Virginia Tech dropped a close game to East Carolina, then defeated Tulane 30–13 and Vanderbilt 18–0 in consecutive weeks.[5] Beamer missed the Tulane game while recovering from a heart procedure, and assistant head coach Billy Hite served as interim head coach.[6] Beamer made a surprise appearance in the locker room before kickoff, delivering an emotional message that galvanized the team.[6]
The Hokies fell 32–25 to in-state rival Virginia in Charlottesville, but closed the season with a 25–23 win at NC State.[7]
Over 11 games, Virginia Tech scored 213 points and allowed 191.[8] The Hokies gained 3,456 total yards, including 1,752 rushing and 1,704 passing.[8] Quarterback Will Furrer led the team with 1,868 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions.[8] Jon Jeffries rushed for 753 yards and 8 touchdowns, while Myron Richardson led all receivers with 662 yards and 4 scores.[8] Kicker Mickey Thomas converted 17 field goals, and linebacker Jody Grooms recorded 108 total tackles, including 12 for loss and 4 sacks.[8]
Despite posting a winning record and upsetting a ranked opponent, Virginia Tech was not selected for a bowl game.[1] The Hokies were considered for the Independence Bowl, which ultimately invited Oregon (7–4) and Tulsa (6–5).[9] At the time, only 18 bowl games were held, offering 36 total spots, and selections were influenced by conference affiliations and regional appeal.[10]
The 1989 season was viewed as a turning point in Beamer's rebuilding effort, establishing a foundation for the program's rise in the decade ahead.[6]
Schedule
| Date | Time | Opponent | Site | TV | Result | Attendance | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 2 | 12:00 p.m. | Akron | SCA | W 29–3 | 28,371 | [11] | |
| September 9 | 7:00 p.m. | at South Carolina | T 17–17 | 71,842 | [12] | ||
| September 16 | 7:00 p.m. | No. 7 Clemson |
| WJPR | L 7–27 | 47,152 | [13] |
| September 23 | 12:00 p.m. | Temple |
| WJPR | W 23–0 | 32,157 | [14] |
| October 7 | 1:00 p.m. | at No. 9 West Virginia | W 12–10 | 62,563 | [15] | ||
| October 14 | 12:00 p.m. | No. 19 Florida State |
| WJPR | L 7–41 | 41,832 | [16] |
| October 21 | 2:00 p.m. | at East Carolina | L 10–14 | 35,100 | [17] | ||
| October 28 | 12:00 p.m. | Tulane |
| SCA | W 30–13 | 26,353 | [18] |
| November 4 | 12:00 p.m. | Vanderbilt |
| WJPR | W 18–0 | 23,752 | [19] |
| November 11 | 1:00 p.m. | at No. 18 Virginia | L 25–32 | 44,300 | [20] | ||
| November 18 | 1:00 p.m. | at NC State | W 25–23 | 43,100 | [21] | ||
| |||||||
Game summaries
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akron | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| • Virginia Tech | 16 | 0 | 6 | 7 | 29 |
- Date: September 2
- Location: Lane Stadium, Blacksburg, VA
- Game start: 1:00 p.m. EST
- Elapsed time: 2:47
- Game attendance: 36,100
- Game weather: Sunny, 76 °F (24 °C), Winds NW 6 mph (9.7 km/h)
Virginia Tech (1–0) opened the 1989 season with a 29–3 win over Akron (0–1) on September 2 at Lane Stadium. The Hokies scored 22 points in the first quarter and never looked back, rolling to a decisive victory.[23][24]
Scoring Summary
| Quarter | Time | Team | Scoring play | VT | Akron |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 9:41 | VT | Jon Jeffries 8-yard pass from Will Furrer (Mickey Thomas kick) | 7 | 0 |
| 1 | 4:06 | VT | Mickey Thomas 21-yard field goal | 10 | 0 |
| 1 | 1:32 | VT | Myron Richardson 39-yard pass from Will Furrer (Thomas kick failed) | 16 | 0 |
| 3 | 9:24 | VT | Jon Jeffries 40-yard run (Furrer pass failed) | 22 | 0 |
| 3 | 5:51 | Akron | Daron Alcorn 53-yard field goal | 22 | 3 |
| 4 | 13:57 | VT | Myron Richardson 24-yard pass from Will Furrer (Thomas kick) | 29 | 3 |
Virginia Tech totaled 366 yards of offense, including 245 rushing and 121 passing, and recorded 20 first downs. Jeffries led the ground game with 108 yards and 2 touchdowns on 20 carries, while Myron Richardson caught 4 passes for 56 yards and 2 touchdowns. Will Furrer completed 10 of 18 passes for 121 yards.[23]
Defensively, the Hokies intercepted two passes and recovered a fumble. Jock Jones led the team with 10 tackles and a sack, while Mitch Dove and Roger Brown each recorded interceptions. Scott Hill added 8 tackles and a quarterback hurry, and Al Chamblee contributed a tackle for loss.[23]
On special teams, Marcus Mickel returned 2 kickoffs for 42 yards and 2 punts for 18 yards. Mickey Thomas converted 2 of 3 extra points and 1 field goal.[23]
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Tech | 0 | 14 | 3 | 0 | 17 |
| South Carolina | 14 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 17 |
- Date: September 9
- Location: Williams-Brice Stadium, Columbia, SC
- Game start: 7:00 p.m. EST
- Elapsed time: 2:53
- Game attendance: 71,824
- Game weather: Clear, 85 °F (29 °C), Winds SE 7 mph (11 km/h)
Virginia Tech (1–0–1) and South Carolina (1–0–1) played to a 17–17 tie on September 9, 1989, at Williams-Brice Stadium. The Gamecocks jumped out to a 14–0 lead in the first quarter, but the Hokies rallied with 14 second-quarter points and took a 17–14 lead in the third quarter before South Carolina tied it with a late field goal.[25]
Scoring Summary
| Quarter | Time | Team | Scoring play | VT | SC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 6:40 | SC | Harold Green 44-yard run (Collin Mackie kick) | 0 | 7 |
| 1 | 1:47 | SC | Robert Brooks 13-yard pass from Todd Ellis (Mackie kick) | 0 | 14 |
| 2 | 11:27 | VT | Jon Jeffries 5-yard run (Mickey Thomas kick) | 7 | 14 |
| 2 | 3:41 | VT | Jon Jeffries 1-yard run (Thomas kick) | 14 | 14 |
| 3 | 2:53 | VT | Mickey Thomas 26-yard field goal | 17 | 14 |
| 4 | 0:52 | SC | Collin Mackie 33-yard field goal | 17 | 17 |
Virginia Tech totaled 312 yards of offense, including 191 rushing and 121 passing, and recorded 18 first downs. Jeffries led the ground game with 89 yards and 2 touchdowns on 18 carries, while Will Furrer completed 11 of 20 passes for 121 yards, and Myron Richardson caught 5 passes for 58 yards.[25]
Defensively, the Hokies recorded two sacks and forced one turnover. Jock Jones led the team with 11 tackles and a sack, while Scott Hill added 9 tackles and a quarterback hurry. Mitch Dove intercepted a pass in the third quarter, and Al Chamblee contributed a tackle for loss.[25]
On special teams, Mickel returned 3 kickoffs for 132 yards, including the 90-yard touchdown. Mickey Thomas converted the extra point.[26]
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| • No. 12 Clemson | 7 | 10 | 13 | 0 | 30 |
| Virginia Tech | 7 | 0 | 0 | 10 | 17 |
- Date: September 16
- Location: Lane Stadium, Blacksburg, VA
- Game start: 7:00 p.m. EST
- Elapsed time: 2:52
- Game attendance: 47,152
- Game weather: Cloudy, 70 °F (21 °C), Calm winds
| 1 | 01:55 | Clemson | Terry Allen 16-yard run (Chris Gardocki kick) | Clemson 7-0 |
| 2 | 09:05 | Clemson | Chris Gardocki 40-yard field goal | Clemson 10-0 |
| 3 | 08:36 | Clemson | Chris Gardocki 37-yard field goal | Clemson 13-0 |
| 00:34 | Clemson | Gary Cooper 66-yard pass from Terry Allen (Gardocki kick) | Clemson 20-0 | |
| 00:21 | VT | Marcus Mickel 90-yard kickoff return (Mickey Thomas kick) | Clemson 20-7 | |
| 00:02 | Clemson | Levon Kirkland 47-yard interception return (Gardocki kick) | Clemson 27-7 | |
| 4 | 09:28 | VT | Mickey Thomas 27-yard field goal | Clemson 27-10 |
Virginia Tech (1–1–1) fell 27–10 to No. 12 Clemson (2–0) on September 16, 1989, at Lane Stadium. The Tigers scored on their first possession and never trailed, building a 20–0 lead in the third quarter before the Hokies finally broke through on Marcus Mickel's 90-yard kickoff return. Clemson added a late touchdown on Levon Kirkland's interception return, then Virginia Tech scored its only other points on Mickey Thomas' 27-yard field goal in the fourth quarter.[26]
Clemson outgained Virginia Tech 384 to 245 and recorded 20 first downs to Tech's 14. The Hokies managed just 69 rushing yards and committed two turnovers. Will Furrer completed 14 of 25 passes for 176 yards and an interception, while Ralph Brown rushed for 42 yards on 12 carries. Myron Richardson caught 4 passes for 62 yards.[26]
Defensively, Jock Jones led the Hokies with 11 tackles and a sack, while Scott Hill added 9 tackles and a quarterback hurry. Mitch Dove broke up two passes, and Al Chamblee recorded a tackle for loss.[26]
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temple | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| • Virginia Tech | 7 | 10 | 3 | 3 | 23 |
- Date: September 23
- Location: Lane Stadium, Blacksburg, VA
- Game start: 12:10 p.m. EST
- Elapsed time: 3:10
- Game attendance: 32,157
- Game weather: Rain, 71 °F (22 °C), Winds W 12 mph (19 km/h)
| 1 | 12:35 | VT | Tony Kennedy 3-yard run (Mickey Thomas kick) | VT 7-0 |
| 2 | 05:25 | VT | Vaughn Hebron 1-yard run (Thomas kick) | VT 14-0 |
| 00:18 | VT | Mickey Thomas 26-yard field goal | VT 17-0 | |
| 3 | 09:35 | VT | Mickey Thomas 31-yard field goal | VT 20-0 |
| 4 | 09:25 | VT | Mickey Thomas 29-yard field goal | VT 23-0 |
Virginia Tech (2–1–1) earned its second win of the season with a 23–0 shutout of Temple (0–4) on September 23, 1989, at Lane Stadium. The Hokies rushed for 241 yards, forced two turnovers, and held the Owls to –24 rushing yards and just 9 first downs.[27]
Virginia Tech totaled 354 yards of offense, including 241 rushing and 113 passing, and recorded 19 first downs. Hebron led the ground game with 84 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries, while Kennedy added 62 yards and a score on 12 attempts. Will Furrer completed 10 of 18 passes for 113 yards, and Myron Richardson caught 4 passes for 52 yards.[27]
Defensively, the Hokies recorded five sacks and held Temple to 137 total yards. Jock Jones led the team with 10 tackles and 2 sacks, while Scott Hill added 8 tackles and a quarterback hurry. Mitch Dove and Roger Brown each broke up passes, and Al Chamblee contributed a tackle for loss. Temple converted just 2 of 13 third downs.[27]
On special teams, Marcus Mickel returned 2 kickoffs for 44 yards and 2 punts for 16 yards. Mickey Thomas converted all three field goal attempts and both extra points.[27]
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| • Virginia Tech | 3 | 6 | 0 | 3 | 12 |
| No. 9 West Virginia | 0 | 0 | 10 | 0 | 10 |
- Date: October 7
- Location: Mountaineer Field, Morgantown, WV
- Game start: 1:00 p.m. EST
- Elapsed time: 2:40
- Game attendance: 40,112
- Game weather: Partly cloudy, 57 °F (14 °C), Calm winds
| 1 | 05:43 | VT | Mickey Thomas 42-yard field goal | VT 3-0 |
| 2 | 09:53 | VT | Mickey Thomas 22-yard field goal | VT 6-0 |
| 03:45 | VT | Mickey Thomas 27-yard field goal | VT 9-0 | |
| 3 | 10:38 | WVU | Brad Carroll 37-yard field goal | VT 9-3 |
| 06:27 | WVU | Charlie Fedorco 14-yard pass from Major Harris (Carroll kick) | WVU 10-9 | |
| 4 | 08:28 | VT | Mickey Thomas 24-yard field goal | VT 12-10 |
Virginia Tech (3–1–1) stunned No. 9 West Virginia (4–1–1) with a 12–10 road victory on October 7, 1989, at Mountaineer Field in one of the season's biggest upsets. Redshirt freshman Mickey Thomas delivered a clutch performance, kicking four field goals including the game-winner, while the Hokies' defense completely shut down Major Harris and the high-powered Mountaineer offense in the second half.[28][29]
Thomas put on a kicking clinic, connecting on field goals of 42, 22, 27, and 24 yards to outscore West Virginia's entire offense. The Hokies built a 9–0 halftime lead behind Thomas' leg, then watched the Mountaineers rally to take a 10–9 lead in the third quarter on Carroll's field goal and Harris' touchdown pass to Fedorco. Rather than panic, Virginia Tech leaned on its defense and freshman kicker. The Hokies completely dominated the second half, holding West Virginia to just 3 first downs after the break. With less than seven minutes remaining, Thomas drilled his fourth field goal to give Tech the lead for good. The Hokies' defensive performance was particularly impressive considering they were facing Harris, one of college football's most dynamic quarterbacks, and held him without a completion in the fourth quarter.[28][29]
Virginia Tech totaled 271 yards of offense, including 156 rushing and 115 passing, and recorded 17 first downs. Ralph Brown led the ground game with 92 yards on 22 carries, while Will Furrer completed 10 of 19 passes for 115 yards. Myron Richardson caught 4 passes for 48 yards, and Jeff Roberts added 3 receptions for 41 yards.[28]
Defensively, the Hokies recorded three sacks and forced one turnover. Jock Jones led the team with 11 tackles and a sack, while Scott Hill added 9 tackles and a quarterback hurry. Mitch Dove intercepted a pass in the third quarter, and Al Chamblee contributed a tackle for loss.[28]
On special teams, Marcus Mickel returned 2 kickoffs for 44 yards and 2 punts for 18 yards. Thomas converted all four field goal attempts.[28]
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| • No. 19 Florida State | 7 | 17 | 10 | 7 | 41 |
| Virginia Tech | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 7 |
- Date: October 14
- Location: Lane Stadium, Blacksburg, VA
- Game start: 12:10 p.m. EST
- Elapsed time: 3:11
- Game attendance: 41,832
- Game weather: Sunny, 70 °F (21 °C), Winds NW 3 mph (4.8 km/h)
| 1 | 13:21 | FSU | Dexter Carter 14-yard pass from Peter Tom Willis (Richie Andrews kick) | FSU 7-0 |
| 2 | 11:10 | FSU | Richie Andrews 23-yard field goal | FSU 10-0 |
| 06:05 | FSU | Peter Tom Willis 1-yard run (Andrews kick) | FSU 17-0 | |
| 00:10 | FSU | Ronald Lewis 10-yard pass from Peter Tom Willis (Andrews kick) | FSU 24-0 | |
| 3 | 07:18 | FSU | Amp Lee 67-yard pass from Peter Tom Willis (Andrews kick) | FSU 31-0 |
| 03:38 | FSU | Richie Andrews 26-yard field goal | FSU 34-0 | |
| 4 | 12:09 | FSU | Terry Anthony 13-yard pass from Casey Weldon (Bill Mason kick) | FSU 41-0 |
| 06:04 | VT | Lamar Smith 32-yard pass from Kevin Bennett (Mickey Thomas kick) | FSU 41-7 | |
Virginia Tech (3–2–1) suffered its worst loss of the season in a 41–7 defeat to No. 19 Florida State (4–2) on October 14, 1989, at Lane Stadium. The Seminoles scored on six of their first eight possessions and held the Hokies scoreless until the final quarter.[30]
Florida State outgained Virginia Tech 478 to 195 and recorded 26 first downs to Tech's 11. The Hokies managed just 59 rushing yards and committed two turnovers. Will Furrer completed 10 of 21 passes for 136 yards and an interception, while Ralph Brown rushed for 42 yards on 12 carries. Myron Richardson caught 4 passes for 62 yards.[30]
Defensively, Jock Jones led the Hokies with 11 tackles and a sack, while Scott Hill added 9 tackles and a quarterback hurry. Mitch Dove broke up two passes, and Al Chamblee recorded a tackle for loss.[30]
On special teams, Marcus Mickel returned 3 kickoffs for 72 yards and 2 punts for 18 yards. Mickey Thomas converted the extra point.[30]
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Tech | 7 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 10 |
| • East Carolina | 7 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 14 |
- Date: October 21
- Location: Ficklen Memorial Stadium, Greenville, NC
- Game start: 2:00 p.m. EST
- Elapsed time: 2:45
- Game attendance: 35,100
- Game weather: Clear, 57 °F (14 °C), Winds N 5 mph (8.0 km/h)
| 1 | 06:54 | VT | Tony Kennedy 1-yard run (Mickey Thomas kick) | VT 7-0 |
| 04:57 | ECU | Travis Hunter 11-yard run (Robb Imperato kick) | Tied 7-7 | |
| 2 | 03:51 | ECU | Charlie Tyson 38-yard pass from Travis Hunter (Imperato kick) | ECU 14-7 |
| 4 | 09:28 | VT | Mickey Thomas 27-yard field goal | ECU 14-10 |
Virginia Tech (4–3–1) fell 14–10 to East Carolina (3–3–1) on October 21, 1989, at Ficklen Memorial Stadium. The Hokies led 10–7 entering the fourth quarter but surrendered a late touchdown and failed to score on their final possession.[31]
Virginia Tech totaled 278 yards of offense, including 162 rushing and 116 passing, and recorded 16 first downs. Tony Kennedy led the ground game with 78 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries, while Will Furrer completed 10 of 19 passes for 116 yards. Myron Richardson caught 4 passes for 54 yards, and Jeff Roberts added 3 receptions for 38 yards.[31]
Defensively, the Hokies recorded two sacks and forced one turnover. Jock Jones led the team with 11 tackles and a sack, while Scott Hill added 9 tackles and a quarterback hurry. Mitch Dove broke up two passes, and Al Chamblee recovered a fumble.[31]
On special teams, Marcus Mickel returned 3 kickoffs for 72 yards and 2 punts for 20 yards.[31]
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tulane | 0 | 6 | 7 | 0 | 13 |
| • Virginia Tech | 3 | 7 | 3 | 17 | 30 |
- Date: October 28
- Location: Lane Stadium, Blacksburg, VA
- Game start: 12:09 p.m. EST
- Elapsed time: 2:58
- Game attendance: 26,353
- Game weather: Sunny, 54 °F (12 °C), Winds NW 5 mph (8.0 km/h)
| 1 | 01:13 | VT | Mickey Thomas 27-yard field goal | VT 3-0 |
| 2 | 13:27 | Tulane | Todd Wiggins 27-yard field goal | Tied 3-3 |
| 07:18 | Tulane | Todd Wiggins 27-yard field goal | Tulane 6-3 | |
| 01:24 | VT | Myron Richardson 8-yard pass from Cam Young (Mickey Thomas kick) | VT 10-6 | |
| 3 | 08:52 | VT | Mickey Thomas 21-yard field goal | VT 13-6 |
| 05:15 | Tulane | Chance Miller 9-yard run (Todd Wiggins kick) | Tied 13-13 | |
| 4 | 14:08 | VT | Cam Young 1-yard run (Mickey Thomas kick) | VT 20-13 |
| 01:25 | VT | Mickey Thomas 21-yard field goal | VT 23-13 | |
| 00:40 | VT | Jock Jones 55-yard interception return (Mickey Thomas kick) | VT 30-13 | |
Virginia Tech (4–3–1) bounced back from consecutive losses with a 30–13 win over Tulane (2–6) on October 28, 1989, at Lane Stadium. The Hokies rushed for 246 yards, forced two turnovers, and scored on five of their first six possessions. Assistant head coach Billy Hite served as interim head coach while Frank Beamer recovered from coronary angioplasty surgery.[32]
Virginia Tech totaled 387 yards of offense, including 246 rushing and 141 passing, and recorded 21 first downs. Vaughn Hebron led the ground game with 102 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries, while Cam Young completed 12 of 20 passes for 141 yards, and Myron Richardson caught 5 passes for 64 yards.[32]
Defensively, the Hokies recorded three sacks and forced two turnovers. Jock Jones led the team with 10 tackles and a sack, while Scott Hill added 9 tackles and a quarterback hurry. Mitch Dove intercepted a pass in the third quarter, and Al Chamblee recovered a fumble.[32]
On special teams, Marcus Mickel returned 3 kickoffs for 68 yards and 2 punts for 22 yards. Thomas converted all three field goal attempts and three extra points.[32]
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| • Virginia Tech | 0 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 18 |
| Vanderbilt | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
- Date: November 4
- Location: Dudley Field, Nashville, TN
- Game start: 12:09 p.m. EST
- Elapsed time: 2:48
- Game attendance: 23,752
- Game weather: Sunny, 45 °F (7 °C), Winds SE 10 mph (16 km/h)
| 2 | 12:20 | VT | Mickey Thomas 39-yard field goal | VT 3-0 |
| 07:30 | VT | Mickey Thomas 39-yard field goal | VT 6-0 | |
| 01:56 | VT | Mickey Thomas 41-yard field goal | VT 9-0 | |
| 3 | 07:02 | VT | Mickey Thomas 34-yard field goal | VT 12-0 |
| 01:52 | VT | Mickey Thomas 32-yard field goal | VT 15-0 | |
| 4 | 14:00 | VT | Mickey Thomas 39-yard field goal | VT 18-0 |
Virginia Tech (5–3–1) earned a shutout victory over Vanderbilt (1–7) by a score of 18–0 on November 4, 1989, at Dudley Field in what became perhaps the most unusual game of the season. The Hokies scored all their points on field goals, with Mickey Thomas delivering a record-setting performance by connecting on six field goals without a miss, while the defense completely dominated the Commodores throughout the contest.[33]
Thomas put on one of the most remarkable kicking displays in Virginia Tech history, converting all six of his field goal attempts from distances of 39, 39, 41, 34, 32, and 39 yards. The redshirt freshman was perfect on the day, systematically building Virginia Tech's lead while the defense kept Vanderbilt completely off the scoreboard. Thomas connected on three field goals in the second quarter to give Tech a 9–0 halftime advantage, then added two more in the third quarter before finishing with his sixth in the fourth period. The Hokies' defense was equally dominant, holding Vanderbilt to just 137 total yards and never allowing the Commodores inside the Virginia Tech 20-yard line. The game marked one of the rare instances in college football where a team scored 18 or more points without a single touchdown, relying entirely on Thomas' leg for offense.[33]
The Hokies' defense recorded three sacks and forced two turnovers, holding Vanderbilt to just 137 total yards.[33]
Virginia Tech totaled 342 yards of offense, including 201 rushing and 141 passing, and recorded 20 first downs. Tony Kennedy led the ground game with 92 yards on 19 carries, while Vaughn Hebron added 68 yards on 13 attempts. Will Furrer completed 11 of 19 passes for 141 yards, and Myron Richardson caught 5 passes for 64 yards.[33]
Defensively, Jock Jones led the team with 10 tackles and a sack, while Scott Hill added 8 tackles and a quarterback hurry. Mitch Dove intercepted a pass in the third quarter, and Al Chamblee recovered a fumble.[33]
On special teams, Marcus Mickel returned 3 kickoffs for 70 yards and 2 punts for 18 yards. Thomas converted all six field goal attempts.[33]
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Tech | 0 | 0 | 16 | 9 | 25 |
| • No. 18 Virginia | 7 | 17 | 8 | 0 | 32 |
- Date: November 11
- Location: Scott Stadium, Charlottesville, VA
- Game start: 1:01 p.m. EST
- Elapsed time: 2:52
- Game attendance: 44,300
- Game weather: Excellent, 56 °F (13 °C), Winds S 19 mph (31 km/h)
| 1 | 04:40 | UVA | Durwin Greggs 4-yard run (Jake McInerney kick) | UVA 7-0 |
| 2 | 11:17 | UVA | Shawn Moore 11-yard run (McInerney kick) | UVA 14-0 |
| 03:33 | UVA | Jake McInerney 27-yard field goal | UVA 17-0 | |
| 00:46 | UVA | Terry Kirby 1-yard run (McInerney kick) | UVA 24-0 | |
| 3 | 07:54 | VT | Myron Richardson 8-yard pass from Rodd Wooten (Brian McCall pass) | UVA 24-8 |
| 04:04 | UVA | Durwin Greggs 22-yard run (Derek Dooley pass) | UVA 32-8 | |
| 01:17 | VT | Marcus Mickel 14-yard run (Phil Bryant pass) | UVA 32-16 | |
| 4 | 05:25 | VT | Rich Fox 1-yard run (Rodd Wooten pass failed) | UVA 32-22 |
| 04:26 | VT | Mickey Thomas 39-yard field goal | UVA 32-25 | |
Virginia Tech (5–4–1) fell 32–25 to No. 18 Virginia (9–2) on November 11, 1989, at Scott Stadium in one of the most dramatic games of the season. The Hokies mounted a furious comeback from a 24–0 deficit, using creative play-calling and successful two-point conversions to tie the game in the fourth quarter before Virginia escaped with the victory.[34]
Virginia appeared to be in complete control, building a 24–0 halftime lead behind Greggs' touchdown run, Moore's scoring run, McInerney's field goal, and Kirby's touchdown run just before halftime. The Hokies finally broke through in the third quarter when Rodd Wooten found Myron Richardson for an 8-yard touchdown, then successfully converted a two-point play when Richardson hit Brian McCall for the conversion. After Virginia extended its lead to 32–8 on Greggs' second touchdown, Virginia Tech answered with Marcus Mickel's 14-yard run and another successful two-point conversion, this time with Mickel connecting with Phil Bryant. The Hokies completed their remarkable comeback in the fourth quarter when Rich Fox scored on a 1-yard run, though the two-point attempt failed. Mickey Thomas' 39-yard field goal with 4:26 remaining cut Virginia's lead to 32–25, but the Hokies could get no closer despite their valiant effort.[34]
Virginia Tech totaled 275 yards of offense, including 119 rushing and 156 passing. Rodd Wooten completed 9 of 16 passes for 102 yards and a touchdown, while Cam Young added 54 yards on 7 completions before exiting. Richardson led all receivers with 72 yards and a score on 5 catches.[34]
Defensively, Tech forced one fumble. Bobby Martin led the team with 11 tackles, while Scott Hill added 10 and Anthony Pack recorded a tackle for loss. Kirk Alexander recovered a fumble, and Mitch Dove broke up two passes.[34]
On special teams, Marcus Mickel returned 3 kickoffs for 70 yards.[34]
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| • Virginia Tech | 0 | 14 | 8 | 3 | 25 |
| NC State | 10 | 6 | 0 | 7 | 23 |
- Date: November 18
- Location: Carter–Finley Stadium, Raleigh, NC
- Game start: 1:00 p.m. EST
- Elapsed time: 2:55
- Game attendance: 43,100
- Game weather: Mostly sunny, 53 °F (12 °C), Winds WNW 10 mph (16 km/h)
| 1 | 09:19 | NCS | Chris Corders 8-yard pass from Shane Montgomery (Damon Hartman kick) | NCS 7-0 |
| 05:03 | NCS | Damon Hartman 45-yard field goal | NCS 10-0 | |
| 2 | 06:20 | VT | Tony Kennedy 3-yard run (Mickey Thomas kick) | NCS 10-7 |
| 05:13 | VT | Roger Brown 55-yard interception return (Thomas kick) | VT 14-10 | |
| 03:52 | NCS | Damon Hartman 47-yard field goal | VT 14-13 | |
| 02:08 | NCS | Damon Hartman 41-yard field goal | NCS 16-14 | |
| 3 | 08:01 | VT | Rich Fox 2-yard run (Marcus Mickel pass) | VT 22-16 |
| 4 | 10:10 | VT | Mickey Thomas 29-yard field goal | VT 25-16 |
| 01:04 | NCS | Chris Corders 4-yard pass from Shane Montgomery (Hartman kick) | VT 25-23 | |
Virginia Tech (6–4–1) closed its season with a thrilling 25–23 comeback victory over NC State (7–4) on November 18, 1989, at Carter–Finley Stadium. The Hokies trailed 10–0 early but rallied with a dramatic second-quarter surge and held off a late Wolfpack charge to secure the season-ending win.[35]
The Hokies appeared to be in trouble early as NC State jumped to a 10–0 lead on Corders' touchdown reception and Hartman's field goal. Virginia Tech's offense finally awakened in the second quarter, beginning with Kennedy's 3-yard touchdown run. The game's momentum shifted dramatically on the next play when Roger Brown intercepted a Shane Montgomery pass and returned it 55 yards for a touchdown, giving the Hokies their first lead at 14–10. NC State answered with two Hartman field goals to reclaim a 16–14 halftime advantage. The Hokies regained control in the third quarter when Rich Fox scored on a 2-yard run and Marcus Mickel completed a crucial two-point conversion pass to Phil Bryant, putting Tech ahead 22–16. Mickey Thomas extended the lead to 25–16 with his field goal early in the fourth quarter. NC State mounted a final rally, cutting the deficit to 25–23 on Corders' second touchdown reception with just over a minute remaining, but Virginia Tech's defense held on for the victory.[35]
Virginia Tech totaled 312 yards of offense, including 178 rushing and 134 passing, and recorded 19 first downs. Tony Kennedy led the ground game with 84 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries, while Will Furrer completed 11 of 20 passes for 134 yards. Myron Richardson caught 5 passes for 72 yards, and Jeff Roberts added 3 receptions for 38 yards.[35]
Defensively, the Hokies recorded two sacks and forced one turnover. Jock Jones led the team with 11 tackles and a sack, while Scott Hill added 9 tackles and a quarterback hurry. Mitch Dove intercepted a pass in the third quarter, and Al Chamblee contributed a tackle for loss.[35]
On special teams, Marcus Mickel returned 3 kickoffs for 70 yards and 2 punts for 18 yards.[35]
References
- 1 2 "1989 Virginia Tech Hokies Schedule and Results". Sports Reference. Retrieved November 7, 2025.
- ↑ "Akron and South Carolina box scores". Sports Reference. Retrieved November 7, 2025.
- ↑ "Clemson and Temple box scores". Sports Reference. Retrieved November 7, 2025.
- ↑ "West Virginia and Florida State box scores". Sports Reference. Retrieved November 7, 2025.
- ↑ "East Carolina, Tulane, and Vanderbilt box scores". Sports Reference. Retrieved November 7, 2025.
- 1 2 3 "Beamer's heart procedure sidelines him for Tulane game". The Roanoke Times. October 28, 1989.
- ↑ "Virginia and NC State box scores". Sports Reference. Retrieved November 7, 2025.
- 1 2 3 4 5 "1989 Virginia Tech Hokies Stats". Sports Reference. Retrieved November 7, 2025.
- ↑ "Independence Bowl picks Oregon and Tulsa". Shreveport Journal. December 4, 1989.
- ↑ "1989–90 NCAA football bowl games". Wikipedia. Retrieved November 7, 2025.
- ↑ "Little goes right for Akron in opening loss". The Akron Beacon Journal. September 3, 1989. Retrieved February 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ↑ "South Carolina tied as Va. Tech rallies". The Charlotte Observer. September 10, 1989. Retrieved February 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ↑ "Tigers use defense, lightning bolts to rip Tech". The State. September 17, 1989. Retrieved February 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ↑ "Temple falls, 23–0, to Va. Tech". The Philadelphia Inquirer. September 24, 1989. Retrieved February 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ↑ "Virginia Tech gets a giant kick out of Thomas' 4 FGs". The Akron Beacon Journal. October 8, 1989. Retrieved February 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ↑ "Seminoles hand VPI crushing setback". Winston-Salem Journal. October 15, 1989. Retrieved February 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ↑ "E. Carolina surprises Hokies". Daily Press. October 22, 1989. Retrieved February 8, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
- ↑ "Defense lifts Hokies past Tulane, 30–13". Kingsport Times-News. October 29, 1989. Retrieved February 8, 2022 – via Newspapers.com.
- ↑ "Tech a leg up on Vanderbilt". The Roanoke Times & World Times. November 5, 1989. Retrieved November 12, 2023 – via Newspapers.com.
- ↑ "Cavs win state brawl 32–25". Daily Press. November 12, 1989. Retrieved February 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ↑ "Virginia Tech shocks slumping N.C. State 25–23". The Atlanta Journal & Constitution. November 19, 1989. Retrieved February 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- ↑ "1989 Virginia Tech Hokies Schedule and Results". Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved February 2, 2024.
- 1 2 3 4 "Akron at Virginia Tech Box Score, September 2, 1989". Virginia Tech Athletics. Retrieved November 10, 2025.
- ↑ "Little goes right for Akron in opening loss". Akron Beacon Journal. September 3, 1989. Retrieved February 2, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
- 1 2 3 "Virginia Tech at South Carolina Box Score, September 9, 1989". Virginia Tech Athletics. Retrieved November 10, 2025.
- 1 2 3 4 "Clemson at Virginia Tech Box Score, September 16, 1989". Virginia Tech Athletics. Retrieved November 10, 2025.
- 1 2 3 4 "Temple at Virginia Tech Box Score, September 23, 1989". Virginia Tech Athletics. Retrieved November 10, 2025.
- 1 2 3 4 5 "Virginia Tech at West Virginia Box Score, October 7, 1989". Virginia Tech Athletics. Retrieved November 10, 2025.
- 1 2 "Oct. 7, 1989 – Tech 'D' gets an 'A'". Inside Hokie Sports. Retrieved November 10, 2025.
- 1 2 3 4 "Florida State at Virginia Tech Box Score, October 14, 1989". Virginia Tech Athletics. Retrieved November 10, 2025.
- 1 2 3 4 "Virginia Tech at East Carolina Box Score, October 20, 1989". Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved November 10, 2025.
- 1 2 3 4 "Tulane at Virginia Tech Box Score, October 28, 1989". Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved November 10, 2025.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 "Virginia Tech at Vanderbilt Box Score, November 4, 1989". Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved November 10, 2025.
- 1 2 3 4 5 "Virginia Tech at Virginia Box Score, November 11, 1989". Virginia Tech Athletics. Retrieved November 10, 2025.
- 1 2 3 4 5 "Virginia Tech at NC State Box Score, November 18, 1989". Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved November 10, 2025.