Virginia Tech Football: Hokies will be legitimate ACC contenders in 2018
Defense
Virginia Tech had one of the best defenses in the country last season, and despite some losses, I think they can do it again this year. With Bud Foster at the helm there’s a pretty high floor, but with this much talent, he could make this a seriously dangerous group.
The line seems to be in a great place. With Ricky Walker and Vinny Minhota on the inside, and Trevon Hill and Hoshun Gaines bookending, this line has a ton of talent and experience.
These guys are proven commodities and will prove valuable, especially against the run. The depth isn’t great, with a ton of young players, but the talent is great enough that they should be fine.
The linebackers are not as solid. After losing star Tremaine Edmunds to the draft, there are some holes to fill in this group. Unfortunately, the only real options to take over are very young and inexperienced.
Rayshard Ashby is the likely starter on the inside. He’s solid, but young, and might have some growing pains. Dylan Rivers and Mook Reynolds will likely start alongside him. Reynolds is a senior, but with Rivers and Ashby seeing their first real time, we could see struggles against good teams.
The defensive backfield is in a similar place. Three starters are gone, including Brandon Facyson, Greg Stroman and Terrell Edmunds. Throw in Adonis Alexander being declared ineligible and Jeremy Webb going down for the season with an injury, and this unit could be really rough.
The lack of experience shouldn’t be confused with a lack of talent. Caleb Farley, Bryce Watts and Tyree Rodgers may all be underclassmen, but they should be solid at corner. Reggie Floyd will hold the defense together at safety. Mook Reynolds, the hybrid linebacker and defensive back will provide stability.
Can the defensive line dominate?
Virginia Tech’s defense is young but talented. Bud Foster is capable of making this a very good defense, despite the inexperience. He’ll need help from his line.
The most experienced group on this team, the line will be absolutely crucial this season. In games against great teams, they will need to provide elite pass rushing, and they’ll need to be able to neutralize great backs.
Everyone behind the line is going to be learning how to truly play college football this season. If the line can give teams issues up front, it’ll be a lot easier for the young guys. The talent is there to make this happen. This group needs to live up to expectations, however, and they’ll need to do it every week.