The Virginia Tech Hokies football team is set to begin its 2024 season on Saturday, August 31, when it hosts the Old Dominion Monarchs at Lane Stadium. The Hokies will then travel to West Virginia on September 7th to face the Mountaineers. The Hokies will then return home to face the Duke Blue Devils on September 14th, before traveling to the Sunshine State to face the Florida State Seminoles on September 21st.
After a bye week, the Hokies will return to action on October 5th when they host the Boston College Eagles. The Hokies will then travel to Syracuse on October 12th to face the Orange, before hosting the Pittsburgh Panthers on October 19th. The Hokies will then travel to Blacksburg, Virginia to face the Virginia Cavaliers on October 26th.
The Hokies will then return home to face the Louisville Cardinals on November 2nd, before traveling to Winston-Salem, North Carolina to face the Wake Forest Demon Deacons on November 9th. The Hokies will then host the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on November 16th, before traveling to Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts to face the Boston College Eagles on November 23rd. The Hokies will then host the Maryland Terrapins on November 30th.
Hokies Prepare for a Challenging 2024-2025 Campaign
The Virginia Tech Hokies football team is gearing up for a demanding 2024-2025 season, marked by several key matchups and an ambitious schedule. The Hokies, under the leadership of head coach Brent Pry, will face a gauntlet of formidable opponents, including both conference and non-conference foes.
Key Matchups and Schedule Overview
The Hokies’ 2024 season kicks off with a home contest against the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers on August 31st. This will be followed by a road trip to Columbus, Ohio, to face the Ohio State Buckeyes on September 7th. Other notable home games include:
- September 14th: vs. Maryland Terrapins
- September 28th: vs. Louisville Cardinals
- October 12th: vs. Miami Hurricanes
- November 2nd: vs. Boston College Eagles
- November 16th: vs. Pitt Panthers
Key road games include:
- September 21st: at West Virginia Mountaineers
- October 5th: at Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
- October 26th: at North Carolina Tar Heels
- November 9th: at Wake Forest Demon Deacons
- November 23rd: at Virginia Cavaliers
The Hokies will play eight home games and five away games during the regular season. They will also have a bye week on October 19th.
| 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|
| Aug 31 Coastal Carolina (H) | Aug 30 Appalachian State (H) |
| Sep 7 Ohio State (A) | Sep 6 Illinois Fighting Illini (H) |
| Sep 14 Maryland (H) | Sep 13 at Tennessee Volunteers |
| Sep 21 at West Virginia (A) | Sep 20 at North Carolina Tar Heels |
| Sep 28 Louisville (H) | Sep 27 at Wake Forest Demon Deacons |
| Oct 5 at Georgia Tech (A) | Oct 4 Louisville Cardinals (H) |
| Oct 12 Miami (H) | Oct 11 at Virginia Cavaliers |
| Oct 19 BYE | Oct 18 BYE |
| Oct 26 at North Carolina (A) | Oct 25 Maryland Terrapins (H) |
| Nov 2 Boston College (H) | Nov 1 at Pittsburgh Panthers |
| Nov 9 at Wake Forest (A) | Nov 8 at Boston College Eagles |
| Nov 16 Pitt (H) | Nov 15 North Carolina Tar Heels (H) |
| Nov 23 at Virginia (A) | Nov 22 at Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets |
Season Opener at Home Against Duke
The Hokies will open the 2024 season at home against the Duke Blue Devils. The game will be played on Sunday, September 1st and will be televised on ACC Network.
Virginia Tech is 14-7 all-time against Duke, including a 4-2 record in Blacksburg. The Hokies have won the last two meetings, including a 31-14 victory in Durham last season.
Duke is coming off a 9-4 season in 2023, including a 6-2 record in the ACC. The Blue Devils are led by quarterback Riley Leonard, who threw for over 3,500 yards and 30 touchdowns last season.
Notable Players to Watch
- Virginia Tech: Quarterback Grant Wells, running back Keshawn King, wide receiver Da’Wain Lofton, defensive end Dashaun Mallory, linebacker Dax Hollifield
- Duke: Quarterback Riley Leonard, running back Jaylen Coleman, wide receiver Jalon Calhoun, defensive end RJ Oben, linebacker Darius Joiner
Key Matchups
- Quarterback: Grant Wells vs. Riley Leonard
- Running Back: Keshawn King vs. Jaylen Coleman
- Wide Receiver: Da’Wain Lofton vs. Jalon Calhoun
- Defensive End: Dashaun Mallory vs. RJ Oben
- Linebacker: Dax Hollifield vs. Darius Joiner
Projected Score
Virginia Tech 31, Duke 24
Road Trip to ACC Rival North Carolina
The Hokies will make a much-anticipated road trip to Chapel Hill to face the North Carolina Tar Heels in 2024. This rivalry game is known for its intense atmosphere and passionate fan bases. In recent years, the Hokies have had some success on the road against the Tar Heels, including a memorable upset victory in 2017. The 2024 matchup will be another opportunity for the Hokies to prove their road warrior capabilities and earn a signature win.
Reviving an Historic Rivalry
The Virginia Tech-North Carolina rivalry dates back to 1928, and the two schools have met a total of 79 times. The series is currently tied at 39-39-1, making it one of the most evenly matched rivalries in the ACC. The Hokies and Tar Heels have squared off in some memorable games over the years, including a thrilling 34-31 overtime victory in 2005. In recent years, the rivalry has been played every other year, but the 2024 and 2025 matchups will be played in consecutive seasons.
Key Players to Watch
| Virginia Tech | North Carolina |
|---|---|
| Quarterback Grant Wells | Quarterback Drake Maye |
| Running back Malachi Thomas | Running back Lejond Cavazos |
| Wide receiver Da’Wain Lofton | Wide receiver Josh Downs |
| Defensive end TyJuan Garbutt | Defensive end Noah Taylor |
The 2024 Virginia Tech-North Carolina game will feature two of the ACC’s top quarterbacks in Grant Wells and Drake Maye. Wells is a redshirt sophomore with a strong arm and a knack for making big plays, while Maye is a true freshman who has already shown flashes of brilliance. The running game will also be a key factor, with Malachi Thomas and Lejond Cavazos leading the way for the Hokies and Tar Heels, respectively. Da’Wain Lofton and Josh Downs are two of the most dangerous wide receivers in the ACC, and they will be crucial targets for Wells and Maye. On defense, TyJuan Garbutt and Noah Taylor will be the leaders of the Hokies and Tar Heels, respectively.
Challenging Matchup Against SEC Powerhouse Alabama
The Hokies are slated to face SEC powerhouse Alabama on September 7, 2024, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The Crimson Tide, led by head coach Nick Saban, are perennial contenders for the College Football Playoff and have won six national championships since 2009. This matchup presents a significant challenge for the Hokies as they aim to prove their worth against one of the top programs in the country.
A Closer Look at Alabama’s Offense and Defense
Alabama’s offense is known for its high-powered attack led by quarterback Bryce Young. The Crimson Tide boast an array of talented receivers, including Jameson Williams and Agiye Hall. Their running back, Jahmyr Gibbs, is one of the most dynamic players in the nation. The offensive line is also a strength, providing Young with ample time to pass and open holes for the running game.
Defensively, Alabama is equally impressive. Led by coordinator Pete Golding, the Crimson Tide have a deep and talented unit. Their defensive line features All-American Will Anderson Jr. and Dallas Turner. The secondary is also a strength, anchored by safeties DeMarcco Hellams and Jordan Battle. Alabama’s defense has a knack for creating turnovers and pressuring opposing quarterbacks.
| Player | Position | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Bryce Young | Quarterback | 1 |
| Will Anderson Jr. | Linebacker | 1 |
| Jameson Williams | Wide Receiver | 1 |
Homecoming Game Against Syracuse
The Hokies will welcome the Syracuse Orange to Lane Stadium for their annual Homecoming game on October 12, 2024. This will be the 37th meeting between the two schools, with Virginia Tech holding a 26-9-1 advantage in the series. The Hokies have won the last four meetings, including a 45-24 victory in 2019.
Syracuse is coming off a 7-6 season in 2023, where they finished 4-4 in the ACC. The Orange have a new head coach in Dino Babers, who previously coached at Bowling Green and Eastern Illinois.
The Homecoming game is always a special event for Virginia Tech fans, and this year’s matchup against Syracuse should be no different. The Hokies will be looking to extend their winning streak against the Orange and improve their record to 27-9-1.
Tickets for the Homecoming game are on sale now. Visit the Virginia Tech athletics website for more information.
Ticket Information
| Section | Price |
|---|---|
| Lower Level | $75 |
| Upper Level | $50 |
| Student Tickets | $25 |
Coastal Division Foe Virginia a Key Test
The Hokies will travel to Charlottesville to face the Virginia Cavaliers in 2024. The game will be a crucial test for both teams, as it will likely have implications for the Coastal Division title race. Virginia is a rising program under head coach Tony Elliott, and they will be looking to make a statement against Virginia Tech.
A Look at the Hokies’ Schedule
Virginia Tech’s 2024-2025 schedule is as follows:
| Year | Opponent | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Old Dominion | August 31st | Blacksburg, VA |
| 2024 | Jacksonville State | September 7th | Blacksburg, VA |
| 2024 | @ Duke | September 14th | Durham, NC |
| 2024 | Louisville | September 21st | Blacksburg, VA |
| 2024 | @ Virginia | September 28th | Charlottesville, VA |
| 2024 | @ Pittsburgh | October 5th | Pittsburgh, PA |
| 2024 | Boston College | October 12th | Blacksburg, VA |
| 2024 | @ Wake Forest | October 19th | Winston-Salem, NC |
| 2024 | N.C. State | November 2nd | Raleigh, NC |
| 2024 | @ Miami (FL) | November 9th | Miami, FL |
| 2024 | Liberty | November 16th | Blacksburg, VA |
| 2024 | Virginia Tech football schedule 2024-2025 | November 23rd | Alumni Day |
A Challenging Slate
The Hokies’ schedule is challenging, but it is also one that they can win. Virginia Tech has a talented team, and they will be looking to make a statement in the ACC in 2024. The game against Virginia will be a key test for the Hokies, but it is one that they can win if they play to their potential.
Late-Season Showdown with ACC Atlantic Champion Clemson
The Virginia Tech Hokies will clash with the ACC Atlantic Champion Clemson Tigers in the final game of the 2024 regular season. This highly anticipated matchup will take place on Saturday, November 30th, 2024, at Clemson’s Memorial Stadium. Both teams will be vying for ACC supremacy, with the winner potentially earning a spot in the ACC Championship Game.
Clemson has been a dominant force in the ACC in recent years, winning the Atlantic Division championship in seven consecutive seasons from 2015 to 2021. Led by head coach Dabo Swinney, the Tigers boast a talented roster featuring several potential NFL draft prospects. Virginia Tech, meanwhile, will be looking to rebound from a disappointing 2023 season and return to contention in the ACC Coastal Division.
The Hokies’ schedule in 2024 features a challenging slate of opponents, including non-conference matchups against Tennessee, Old Dominion, and Liberty. In ACC play, they will face fellow Coastal Division contenders Pitt, Miami, and North Carolina. The game against Clemson will be a major test for Virginia Tech’s defense, which will need to contain Clemson’s high-powered offense.
Key Matchups to Watch
Virginia Tech Offense vs. Clemson Defense: The Hokies will need to establish a strong running game to keep Clemson’s defense honest. Quarterback Grant Wells will need to make smart decisions and avoid turnovers.
Clemson Offense vs. Virginia Tech Defense: Clemson’s offense is loaded with playmakers, including quarterback Cade Klubnik, running back Will Shipley, and wide receiver Antonio Williams. The Hokies’ defense will need to generate pressure on Klubnik and limit the Tigers’ big plays.
Special Teams: Virginia Tech has a reliable kicker in Bryan Hudson, while Clemson has a talented returner in Will Taylor. Special teams could play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this contest.
Search for a Bowl Game Bid in the New Year’s Six
Building a Strong Resume
To secure a bid in the prestigious New Year’s Six bowl games, Virginia Tech must compile an impressive resume. This means winning key games against ranked opponents, performing well in marquee matchups, and showcasing an explosive offense.
Navigating a Challenging Schedule
The Hokies face a demanding schedule in 2024-25. They must navigate several formidable opponents, including two-time defending national champion Georgia, perennial powerhouse Ohio State, and longtime rival Virginia. Success in these games will be crucial to their bowl bid chances.
Sorting Through the Top-Tier Bowls
The New Year’s Six bowls include the Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, Peach Bowl, Cotton Bowl, and Orange Bowl. Each of these bowls is highly regarded and offers a significant platform for teams to showcase their abilities.
| Bowl | Location | Teams |
|---|---|---|
| Rose Bowl | Pasadena, California | Big Ten Champion vs. Pac-12 Champion |
| Sugar Bowl | New Orleans, Louisiana | SEC Champion vs. Big 12 Champion |
| Fiesta Bowl | Glendale, Arizona | At-large teams |
| Peach Bowl | Atlanta, Georgia | At-large teams |
| Cotton Bowl | Arlington, Texas | At-large teams |
| Orange Bowl | Miami, Florida | ACC Champion vs. At-large team |
Earning a Back Door to the Playoffs
While winning the ACC Championship is the primary pathway to a New Year’s Six bowl bid, the Hokies could also qualify through an at-large berth. This would require an exceptional season with a strong record and potential signature wins.
Bucking the Recent Trend
Virginia Tech has not played in a New Year’s Six bowl since 2014. The Hokies will be determined to end this drought and return to the national spotlight in the 2024-25 season.
Justin Fuente’s Hokies Aim for Improvement in Year 6
Virginia Tech head coach Justin Fuente enters his sixth season in Blacksburg looking to build on a promising 2023 campaign. The Hokies finished 8-5 last year, including a 5-3 mark in ACC play. Fuente’s team returns a number of key players from that squad, including quarterback Hendon Hooker and running back Khalil Herbert. With a favorable schedule in 2024, Virginia Tech has a chance to make a run at the ACC Coastal Division title.
9. November 2, 2024: at Miami (Fla.)
The Hokies will travel to Miami to face the Hurricanes in their final ACC road game of the 2024 season. Miami is coming off a disappointing 7-6 campaign in 2023, but they return a number of key players, including quarterback D’Eriq King and running back Cam’Ron Harris. The Hurricanes are also expected to be much improved under new head coach Manny Diaz. This game could be a key swing game in the ACC Coastal race.
Key Players to Watch:
| Virginia Tech | Miami (Fla.) |
|---|---|
| QB Hendon Hooker | QB D’Eriq King |
| RB Khalil Herbert | RB Cam’Ron Harris |
| WR Tre Turner | WR Mark Pope |
| LB Dax Hollifield | LB Shaq Quarterman |
Key Players to Watch for Virginia Tech in 2024-2025
Quarterback: Grant Wells
Wells enters 2024 as a rising star after a breakout sophomore season. With a strong arm and athleticism, he’s poised to lead Tech’s offense as the team’s primary playmaker.
Running Back: Keshawn King
King is an elusive and explosive runner who has the potential to be a game-changer. His ability to break tackles and create big plays out of nothing makes him a threat to opposing defenses.
Wide Receiver: Jaylen Jones
Jones is a dynamic receiver who possesses exceptional route-running ability and hands. He’s a reliable target in the passing game and has the potential for big plays downfield.
Tight End: Ethan Black
Black is a physical presence in the passing game, providing a big target in the red zone. His ability to block and receive makes him a valuable asset to the offense.
Offensive Tackle: Johnny Garrett
Garrett is a mauling run-blocker who provides a solid anchor for the offensive line. His size and strength make him a key player in protecting the quarterback and opening up holes for the running game.
Defensive Line: Matt Crookshank
Crookshank is a versatile defensive lineman who can play both tackle and end. His strength and athleticism allow him to disrupt plays in both the run and pass game.
Linebacker: Dax Hollifield
Hollifield is a hard-hitting linebacker with a nose for the football. His speed and instincts make him a key player in Virginia Tech’s defense, especially in pass coverage.
Cornerback: D.J. Harvey
Harvey is a lock-down cornerback with excellent coverage skills. His ability to read the quarterback and make plays on the ball makes him a crucial piece of the secondary.
Safety: Nasir Peoples
Peoples is a versatile safety who can play both free and strong. His speed and athleticism allow him to cover a lot of ground and make plays on the ball from anywhere on the field.
Special Teams: William Ross (Kicker)
Ross is a reliable kicker who has a strong leg and is accurate from long range. His ability to make clutch field goals and extra points is crucial for the team’s success.
Virginia Tech Football Schedule 2024-2025
The Virginia Tech Hokies football team will play a 12-game regular season schedule in 2024 and 2025. The Hokies will open the 2024 season at home against the Old Dominion Monarchs on August 31st. They will then travel to face the West Virginia Mountaineers on September 7th. The Hokies will host the Boston College Eagles on September 14th and the North Carolina Tar Heels on September 21st. They will then travel to face the Pittsburgh Panthers on September 28th. The Hokies will host the Duke Blue Devils on October 5th and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on October 12th. They will then travel to face the Wake Forest Demon Deacons on October 19th. The Hokies will host the Syracuse Orange on October 26th and the Virginia Cavaliers on November 2nd. They will then travel to face the Louisville Cardinals on November 9th. The Hokies will host the Miami Hurricanes on November 16th to close out the regular season.
The Hokies will open the 2025 season at home against the Richmond Spiders on August 30th. They will then travel to face the Penn State Nittany Lions on September 6th. The Hokies will host the Marshall Thundering Herd on September 13th and the Old Dominion Monarchs on September 20th. They will then travel to face the West Virginia Mountaineers on September 27th. The Hokies will host the Boston College Eagles on October 4th and the North Carolina Tar Heels on October 11th. They will then travel to face the Pittsburgh Panthers on October 18th. The Hokies will host the Duke Blue Devils on October 25th and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on November 1st. They will then travel to face the Wake Forest Demon Deacons on November 8th. The Hokies will host the Syracuse Orange on November 15th and the Virginia Cavaliers on November 22nd. They will then travel to face the Louisville Cardinals on November 29th to close out the regular season.
