Observations

N.C. State play-by-play radio broadcaster Gary Hahn didn't work Saturday's game because he is recovering from prostate cancer surgery.

Wolfpack Sports Marketing general manager Brian Asbill said the cancer was discovered in an early stage. Asbill expects Hahn back Saturday for the season finale against North Carolina.

"His prospects for complete and total recovery are excellent," Asbill said.

Hahn, who is in his 20th season as the voice of the Wolfpack, was replaced on play-by-play by Tony Haynes, who usually serves as sideline reporter. Mark Thomas replaced Haynes on the sideline, and Johnny Evans remained in his usual position as color analyst.

Here's why Virginia Tech is so good on special teams.

Linebacker and leading tackler Cody Grimm, who caused three fumbles on defense in the game, also plays on kickoff coverage and made two huge hits on Clem Johnson. A lot of teams have key players on their special teams, but it's unusual to see such a prominent starter play such an important role in coverage.

Sophomore Jarrett Boykin of Butler High in Matthews, N.C., is emerging as one of the best young wide receivers in the ACC for Virginia Tech.

Boykin caught six passes for 164 of the Hokies' 197 receiving yards. He made receptions of 42 yards on third-and-18 and 35 yards on third-and-4 to keep drives alive. He's another player coaches at schools in North Carolina will regret allowing to get away.