The Virginia Tech football team has three games left in the 2024 season and needs one win to become bowl-eligible. Injuries are piling up at vital spots, putting their depth to the test. A home game against Clemson is only two days away, so here are some views on the Hokies’ last month of the regular season.
Win No. 6 is no guarantee in 2024
This season, Virginia Tech has shown flashes of a team capable of competing in the College Football Playoff, but they’ve also had moments that raise questions about their ability to even reach bowl eligibility. With three games left against Clemson, Duke, and Virginia, the question remains: where will their sixth win come from? On paper, Virginia seems like the best shot, but relying on that rivalry game during Thanksgiving Weekend in Blacksburg is risky.
Could the Hokies win all three matchups? Absolutely. But there’s also a real possibility they drop each one. Until they resolve their on-field and sideline challenges, the lingering uncertainty around their bowl eligibility will remain a concern for everyone.
Are changes coming with the coaching staff?
No matter how this season concludes, Brent Pry will need to take a hard look at his coaching staff. Some changes may be necessary. While it seems unlikely that Whit Babcock would part ways with Pry at this point, the same can’t be said for the assistants, many of whom received raises last season and could find themselves under scrutiny.
Offensively, Tyler Bowen’s play-calling has notably improved after September for the second year in a row. He has effectively mixed things up, getting the ball into the hands of key playmakers like Jaylin Lane with good results. On the defensive side, however, Chris Marve’s unit has struggled, especially during their four losses, failing to make critical stops when needed. As the season winds down, it will be interesting to see what changes, if any, are made. Should new coaches be brought in, Pry will need to prioritize adding experienced assistants to his staff.
Will we see Bhayshul Tuten again in a Hokies uniform?
Bhayhsul Tuten’s injury against Georgia Tech on Oct. 26 appeared to be serious, potentially a high ankle sprain. While I’m not a medical professional, these injuries typically require a lengthy recovery period. Tuten was initially listed as probable for the Syracuse game but is now considered questionable for the upcoming matchup with Clemson. This isn’t an encouraging sign, though he did participate in practice on Wednesday night, leaving open the possibility of playing this weekend.
There is a legitimate question about whether we’ll see Tuten in a Virginia Tech uniform again this season. With the team at 5-4 and no shot at competing in the ACC Championship or the expanded College Football Playoff, Tuten has to weigh the risks of further injury against his NFL Draft prospects, especially with the draft only five months away. While it’s possible he could suit up soon, each passing week without a return may increase the likelihood that he shuts down for the remainder of the season. If he does make that decision, it would be completely understandable.
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