Coaching changes are underway across the college football landscape as the postseason approaches. Following a 6-6 finish under third-year head coach Brent Pry, Virginia Tech has announced a series of staff changes.
In 2024, the Hokies’ defense ranked tied for 44th in the FBS in scoring defense, allowing 22.8 points per game, and 75th in total defense, surrendering 379.8 yards per game. Despite some solid performances, the defense gave up 20+ points in seven games and 30+ points in four, all of which ended in losses.
The Hokies released a statement revealing the dismissal of several key staff members, including defensive coordinator and linebackers coach Chris Marve, offensive line coach Ron Crook, and senior director of strength and conditioning Dwight Galt IV. Marve, who previously coached at Florida State in 2020-21, was in his third season as Virginia Tech’s defensive coordinator.
“I appreciate the work Coach Marve, Coach Crook, and Coach Galt have put into Virginia Tech football,” said Pry in a statement. “They are great men who, alongside their families, have dedicated themselves to our university and our student-athletes. However, our on-field results have not met our standards. As head coach, it is my responsibility to make the necessary changes to restore this program to its rightful place among college football’s best and deliver the success Hokie Nation deserves.”
The moves signal a commitment by Pry to elevate the program and meet the expectations of Hokie Nation.
Just a season ago, Virginia Tech boasted a top-20 total defense nationally and recorded 39 sacks, the second-highest in the ACC. Defensive coordinator Chris Marve, who played a significant role in that success, had signed a contract extension earlier this year worth $875,000 annually through 2027.
Marve, 35, joined Virginia Tech after two seasons as linebackers coach at Florida State, where he was part of head coach Mike Norvell’s inaugural staff. During his time with the Seminoles, Marve helped develop standout linebackers Kalen DeLoach and DJ Lundy, both of whom posted career-best numbers in 2021. DeLoach tallied 69 tackles, seven tackles for loss, a sack, and an interception, while Lundy contributed 68 tackles, five tackles for loss, a sack, and a fumble recovery, ranking third and fourth on the team in tackles, respectively.
After Marve left for Virginia Tech, Florida State promoted Randy Shannon to co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach. Shannon has held that role for the past three seasons but is not expected to return in 2024 as the Seminoles revamp their coaching staff. Recent hires include defensive coordinator Tony White, defensive line coach Terrance Knighton, and safeties coach Evan Cooper. Additionally, program legend and former defensive line coach Odell Haggins has transitioned to an off-field role to continue supporting the team.
Before his time at Florida State, Marve built his coaching résumé at Vanderbilt and Mississippi State. Following a standout playing career at Vanderbilt, he returned to his alma mater in 2014 as a defensive quality control coach. He progressed to graduate assistant and then inside linebackers coach before spending a year at Mississippi State as linebackers coach and defensive run game coordinator.
Marve’s coaching journey reflects his strong defensive acumen, though Virginia Tech’s decision to part ways suggests a desire for fresh leadership on the defensive side after a middling 2024 campaign.
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