For the second time in four years, Virginia Tech has suffered a massive early-season upset loss to in-state program Old Dominion.
The Hokies had a miserable game Friday against the Monarchs in Norfolk. They lost 20-17, thanks in part to five turnovers on top of 14 penalties for 100 yards. There was also a blocked field goal attempt returned for a touchdown in the second quarter. Two consecutive offensive drives resulted in interceptions to end the game.
Naturally, the poor play and end result caused frayed nerves on the part of Virginia Tech. That was especially true for tight end Connor Blumrick, who was caught on video knocking down a field-storming fan as Blumrick was running to the locker room:
Old Dominion upsets Virginia Tech! Watch the Virginia Tech player punch the ODU fan. @95KeepPounding @TBoneWFNZ pic.twitter.com/rQ1nFGBFO5
— Snowman (@B__Snow) September 3, 2022
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The video shows Blumrick — who did not register any stats in the game — "chipping" the fan as he passed by them. The hit caused the fan to fall to a knee on the turf.
The 6-5, 222-pound redshirt senior apologized Saturday, saying he made contact with the fan in an incident that was "not an accurate reflection of my character."
— Connor Lee Blumrick (@ConnorBlumrick) September 3, 2022
The contact could again raise questions as to whether fans should be allowed onto the field, even if they're storming their team's home field after a huge upset. Either way, it's not a good look for Blumrick.
Virginia Tech has yet to say whether he will face punishment.
