NEW ORLEANS -- Michigan coach Brady Hoke spent much of Sugar Bowl week raving about Virginia Tech running back David Wilson.
It seemed pretty clear Hoke and his staff would gear the defense toward stopping Wilson, the Hokies outstanding junior running back who entered the game ranked sixth nationally in rushing. And so far, Michigan is bottling up Wilson, who has seven carries for minus-8 yards, including a 22-yard loss that negated a great touchdown opportunity.
The problem for Michigan is Virginia Tech quarterback Logan Thomas, who has been brilliant so far. Thomas has completed 7 of 10 pass attempts for 101 yards, converting three third-and-long situations. The mammoth sophomore also has 22 rush yards.
It's pick your poison with the Virginia Tech offense, but Michigan needs to slow down Thomas' passing ability.
Virginia Tech leads 6-0 early in the second quarter.
