5 Virginia Tech players who could cause problems for Mountaineers
Andrew Motuapuaka
The name is a mouthful and his game is worth talking about. Andrew Motuapuaka was the Hokies’ leading tackler in 2016. He had 114 tackles, 13 more than the next player, who is also a returning starter in Terrell Edmunds.
Motuapuaka is one of the top linebackers in all of the ACC. Not only is he an intimidating factor, looking like The Rock’s character of Maui in the Disney movie, “Moana,” he is graceful at the position.
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Motuapuaka had three interceptions last season and also recovered two fumbles.
According to Ricky LaBlue of Tech Sideline, Motuapuaka really has stepped out of his shell and has become the true leader of the Virginia Tech defensive unit.
“Really, just letting them know I got their back,” Motuapuaka told the publication. “Just letting them know, ‘I’m still here with you.’ I feel like young guys, when they put their hand in the ground, they just feel like no one is helping them behind them. Just letting them know everything is all right.”
Forming a cohesive unit is the key to any defense. Motuapuaka certainly does that for the Hokies.