The 2024 season has been a disaster for the Virginia Tech football team. Consistently plagued by slow starts, defensive lapses that allow explosive plays, poor offensive line performance, and questionable coaching decisions, the Hokies now sit at 5-6 after a narrow 31-28 loss to Duke on Saturday night.
With more questions than answers surrounding the program, here are two truths and a lie about their latest setback in what’s shaping up to be a forgettable season in Blacksburg.
Truth: Pop Watson needs to start against Virginia
Kyron Drones was unavailable against Duke, forcing UCLA transfer Collin Schlee into the starting role. However, Schlee’s night ended after just one quarter due to a likely head injury sustained on a tackle during a run. This opened the door for freshman Pop Watson, a Springfield, Mass., native, to take the reins—and he delivered a promising performance.
Watson showed poise in the pocket, made key throws, and used his mobility to compensate for poor offensive line protection. He nearly orchestrated a comeback from a 14-point deficit. While he made some mistakes typical of a young quarterback in his first significant college action, his overall performance was impressive. It’s time to let him take the lead against Virginia.
Truth: This was a very winnable game
Big plays have become a hallmark of the Hokies’ struggles in 2024. Time and again, the defense allows explosive moments that shift momentum to their opponents. Against Duke, two major plays on the Blue Devils’ opening drives set a poor tone for Virginia Tech, a team already prone to self-inflicted mistakes.
Maalik Murphy tried to give the Hokies a fighting chance, with Dorian Strong’s two first-half interceptions helping Virginia Tech secure a 17-14 lead in the second quarter. However, Duke struck back with another big play to reclaim the lead before halftime.
Murphy’s struggles continued throughout the game, marked by underthrown passes, dropped balls from receivers, multiple three-and-outs, and a late-game fumble with under two minutes remaining. The Hokies ultimately couldn’t overcome these issues, leaving them to reflect on another missed opportunity.
Lie: Don’t worry, the Hokies will steamroll Virginia again
Around this time last year, the Hokies marched into Charlottesville and dominated the Cavaliers with a 55-17 blowout, securing bowl eligibility after entering the game at 5-6. This year, the stakes are similar, but the circumstances feel very different.
Virginia also sits at 5-6 and needs a win to clinch bowl eligibility. Given the Hokies’ inconsistency in 2024, anything feels possible. The vibes surrounding this year’s Virginia Tech team are far less confident than in 2023, giving Tony Elliott and his Cavaliers a golden opportunity to come into Lane Stadium and potentially end their rival’s season during Thanksgiving Weekend.
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