This is a pivotal year for Virginia Tech head coach Brent Pry, who enters his fourth season leading the Hokies with a 16-21 record that falls short of expectations. Last season, the anticipation around the team was high, but a 6-6 regular-season finish followed by a bowl game loss left fans disappointed.
The offseason brought significant changes. Defensive coordinator Chris Marve was dismissed, while offensive coordinator Tyler Bowen left in February to join Ohio State as the new offensive line coach for the reigning national champions. These departures opened key positions in the coaching staff and added pressure on Pry to make the right hires.
The 2025 NFL Draft dealt another blow, as Virginia Tech lost several key players. All-ACC talents such as Bhayshul Tuten, Jaylin Lane, Antwaun Powell-Ryland, and Aeneas Peebles were selected, further depleting the roster and raising questions about how the team would fill those gaps.
Coach Pry responded decisively. He was aggressive in the transfer portal and made two bold coordinator hires that have turned heads. For the defense, he brought in Sam Siefkes from the NFL—a move that surprised many but came with strong endorsements from respected NFL coaches. Early indications suggest the defense is trending upward.
On offense, Pry hired veteran coordinator and former Tulsa head coach Phillip Montgomery, known for developing top-tier quarterbacks and running high-powered offenses. With Montgomery’s proven offensive mind and Siefkes’ fresh approach on defense, it’s fair to say Virginia Tech might have upgraded both coordinator spots.
Despite the shakeups, the Hokies might be in better shape than expected. According to ESPN’s preseason Football Power Index (FPI), Virginia Tech ranks fourth in the ACC. That’s a surprisingly optimistic outlook, especially considering last season’s mediocre results.
While many Hokie fans remain cautiously skeptical after recent disappointments, this preseason ranking offers a glimmer of hope. It signals national analysts see potential in Pry’s revamped staff and retooled roster.
For Brent Pry, this season may be his most important yet. With the pressure mounting, upgraded coaching leadership, and a chip on the team’s shoulder, the Hokies have a chance to rewrite the narrative—and perhaps exceed the low expectations from a frustrated fan base.