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Virginia Tech Football: Can Hokies realistically compete for 2020 ACC title?

By Michael Hanich

BLACKSBURG, VA - NOVEMBER 23: Head coach Justin Fuente of the Virginia Tech Hokies and defensive back Brion Murray #37 of the Virginia Tech Hokies run onto the field prior to the game against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Lane Stadium on November 23, 2019 in Blacksburg, Virginia. (Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images)
BLACKSBURG, VA - NOVEMBER 23: Head coach Justin Fuente of the Virginia Tech Hokies and defensive back Brion Murray #37 of the Virginia Tech Hokies run onto the field prior to the game against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Lane Stadium on November 23, 2019 in Blacksburg, Virginia. (Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images)
(Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images) /

Experienced offense looks to become more explosive

On the offensive side of the ball, the Hokies return nine starters that made a huge impact from the previous season. This was an offense that was ranked 49th in the nation in points per game (30.8) and 86th in total yards accounted for per game (385.2).

There will be some high-ranked transfers that are looking to make an impact immediately for Virginia Tech this season. They will look to get better in both portions of the season as they know they will have a lot to address before their first game of the season. Brad Cornelsen returns in his fifth season as offensive coordinator for the Hokies.

At the quarterback position, they will return their junior leading dual-threat playmaker in Hendon Hooker. Last season, he threw for 1,555 yards, 13 touchdowns and only had two interceptions on 99-of-162 passing. His ability to create misdirection as an RPO quarterback is what makes him reliable. Hooker rushed for 356 yards and five touchdowns on 123 carries.

With more experience under his belt, Hooker looks to lead a potential high-scoring Hokie offense to an ACC title.

Among one of the biggest transfer for the Hokies, this season is former Kansas running back Khalil Herbert. As a four-star graduate transfer, he rushed 1,735 yards and 14 touchdowns on 320 carries. He was also an essential player as a receiver in the passing game for Kansas. His addition to the team will be a big factor in replacing Deshawn McClease, who rushed for 843 yards and seven touchdowns on 177 carries this past season for Virginia Tech.

The Hokies were ranked 49th in the nation in rushing yards per game (139.9).

The passing game for the Hokies could use more efficient playmakers at the wide receiver and tight end positions despite some starters returning.

Tre Turner returns after leading the team in receptions (34) and receiving yards (553) as he caught four touchdown passes. Tayvion Robinson returns after catching 31 passes for 404 yards and a touchdown as a true freshman in seven starts. The Hokies will expect sophomore Kaleb Smith to make the start after replacing star receiver Damon Hazelton, who transferred to Missouri. Last season, Hazelton was the top scoring receiver for the Hokies as he accounted for eight touchdowns.

James Mitchell returns as the starting junior tight end as he is expected to carry more of a load for the passing game.

The Hokies will return five starters among the offensive line as well as some key contributing role players. Last season, they gave up 29 sacks, which is an area they know they will need to improve on. None of the projected offensive linemen are at the senior level. The Hokies expect to be more efficient in creating efficient running schemes for a running back that lacked a consistent line at Kansas. Athlon Sports’ preseason first-team All-ACC left tackle Christian Darrisaw will be leading the experienced line.

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