ACC Football - 2021 Virginia Tech Hokies Preview
Our Virginia Tech Hokies preview 2021 notes that last season, this team went 5-5 in the ACC, which put them in a three-way tie for sixth place with Boston College and Pittsburgh. The Hokies were 5-6 overall, which was one game less than the Eagles and Panthers won in 2020. Last season, the team’s rush attack was ranked first in the ACC and 10th nationally, while they were sixth in the conference in scoring and total yards. Where the Hokies fell short was on defense. Their pass defense was especially weak, as they were 13th in the conference and 107th in the nation, while their scoring D ranked 12th and 103rd. This season, VT’s offense looks to be the issue, while their defense appears to be stronger than they were last season.
Virginia Tech Offense
The issue for the offense this season has to do with key losses. Running back Khalil Herbert and left tackle Christian Darrisaw both went to the NFL, while quarterback Hendon Hooker, a dual threat, transferred to Tennessee. Junior QB Braxton Burmeister will start. Although he’s bee plagued by injuries and inconsistent play, near the end of last season, he proved to be a genuine playmaker. Like Hooker, he’s a potential double threat. Two-of-three starting wideouts return. Last season, as a freshman, Tayvion Robinson led the team with 38 receptions and 592 yards while Tre’ Turner grabbed 34 passes for 529 yards. They each averaged 15.6 YPC and scored three TDs. James Mitchell, who caught 26 passes for 435 yards and scored four times, is an NFL-quality tight end.
Jalen Holston and Raheem Blackshear get a crack at the prime running back spot. In 2020, Holston averaged 4.7 YPA, while Blackshear posted 3.8 YPA. The O-line looks to be average. For this team to excel on offense, they will need to think out of the box.
Virginia Tech Hokies Preview 2021 - Defense
The frontline will be helped by Clemson transfer Jordan Williams. He’s a big guy with speed and dexterity and could be an anchor for the Hokies. At defensive end, junior Amare’ Barno is big and dominating. In 2020, he had a breakthrough season, leading the team in sacks (6.5). The LB unit features Dax Hollifield and Alan Tisdale. Together, they are an impressive duo.
The secondary looks solid, as All-ACC-caliber CB Jermain Waller comes back healthy. He’s joined by Dorian Strong who proved to be solid in 2020, which was his first season. Nickle back Chamarri Conner is the cornerstone of this group. Last season, he led the team with 81 tackles. Vanderbilt transfer Tae Daly offers depth at strong safety, while freshman Keonta Jenkins brings promise to the free safety area.
Specialists
The return game was a disaster last season. In 2020, fumbles were a big issue. Whoever runs back punts and kicks must hold onto the ball. Our Virginia Tech Hokies preview 2021 sees veteran kicker Brian Johnson and punter Oscar Bradburn leave. John Parker Romo, who’s been solid on kickoffs, will handle the field-goal chores, while Peter Moore is the likely heir to the punting position.
Virginia Tech Hokies Preview 2021 - Projection
Our Virginia Tech Hokies preview 2021 observes that this team will undergo a major test when they meet Notre Dame on October 9. They then play Pittsburgh on October 16. That is a game that will heavily influence where they finish in the division. Their final contest at Virginia looks to have major ramifications too. This is a good team, but it certainly has many question marks. Third, fourth, or fifth place are all possible. We’re saying fourth in the ACC Coastal.
ACC Football - Virginia Tech Hokies 2021 - Predictions:
Fourth Place - ACC Coastal
Gasparilla Bowl vs. UCF