ACC Football: Each team’s top Heisman Trophy candidate for 2020

Justin Fuente and the Hokies found their QB1 last season in Hendon Hooker. When he took over as the full-time starting quarterback for the Hokies, they were able to run the type of offense Fuente and the offensive staff wants to run.

In order for the Hokies to make a run at the ACC title game and the College Football Playoff, they are going to need Hendon Hooker to channel his inner Cam Newton and lead a marginal skill group to the promised land.

With the retirement of Bud Foster and a slew of transfers in the last couple of years, the defense is not as reliable as it used to be. Leading rusher DeShawn McClease declared early for the NFL and last season’s second-leading receiver Damon Hazelton has transferred. A playoff run would be on the shoulders of Hooker.

One advantage Hooker has in the box score is that he is as dangerous with his legs as he is his arm. That’s a good thing since there is a good chance he will lead the Hokies in rushing this season.

Hooker is the most dynamic offensive player for the Hokies. If he balls out, they could make a watch list if the Hokies make a run.