The spring transfer portal for college football is set to open on Wednesday, presenting an opportunity for teams to reassess and improve their rosters. For Virginia Tech, this timing is especially significant following Saturday’s spring game, which resembled more of a glorified scrimmage. In a unique format that rewarded defensive plays with points, the defense came out on top in a dominant 50-21 victory. The scoring system clearly favored the defense, and they capitalized on it from start to finish.
One of the major storylines coming out of the game was the absence of the team’s two top quarterbacks.
Starting quarterback Kyron Drones was sidelined due to a medical procedure that he underwent the previous Wednesday. Head coach Brent Pry had already ruled him out a week earlier in anticipation of the surgery. With Drones unavailable, fans and analysts expected to see backup quarterback Pop Watson take on a larger role. However, Watson was also held out due to a soft tissue issue. Pry explained that the coaching staff felt it was in Watson’s best interest to avoid playing and focus on recovery.
Without their two most experienced quarterbacks, the Hokies turned to three younger and less experienced players to run the offense. Davi Belfort, A.J. Brand, and Kelden Ryan were given the opportunity to lead the offense during the scrimmage. Unfortunately for them, the game turned into a struggle, particularly because of the overwhelming pressure from the defensive line. The defense consistently disrupted plays, keeping the offense off balance and preventing any real rhythm from developing.
This dominant performance by the defense also highlighted a major ongoing concern: the state of the offensive line. Even before Saturday’s game, the offensive line was considered one of the weaker units on the team. Saturday’s scrimmage only reinforced that belief. Despite a new hire in Matt Moore, the offensive line coach brought in over the winter, there has yet to be a noticeable improvement in this area.
Virginia Tech’s offensive line has been a source of concern dating back to previous seasons, and the lack of stability or effectiveness continues to be a problem. During the spring game, the unit struggled to protect the quarterbacks and create space for the offense to operate. With Drones and Watson unavailable, the line’s deficiencies were magnified as the young quarterbacks couldn’t find much success against the relentless defensive pressure.
Coach Brent Pry now faces a critical decision-making period with the spring transfer portal opening. The team needs reinforcements, particularly on the offensive line, where experience and talent are lacking. Pry will likely use the transfer window as a chance to bring in new linemen who can provide immediate help and stabilize the offense. Strengthening this area is essential if Virginia Tech wants to be competitive in the upcoming season.
In summary, Virginia Tech’s spring game served more as a showcase for the defense than a balanced team performance. While the defense excelled under a scoring format that rewarded them, the offense—hampered by injuries and a struggling offensive line—was largely ineffective. With both primary quarterbacks out, the younger players had a tough time, further exposing the gaps in protection and offensive execution. As the spring transfer portal opens, Coach Pry has a clear priority: bolstering the offensive line to give his team a better chance of success in the fall.
Leave a Reply