Virginia Tech has a long-standing tradition of excellence on special teams, a reputation rooted in the program’s famed “Beamer Ball” era. Known for aggressive play, especially in blocking punts and field goals, the Hokies have consistently produced standout performances in this third phase of the game. Most recently, players like Joey Slye, now kicking for the Tennessee Titans, have continued that legacy. While the Hokies were once synonymous with punt-blocking prowess, the focus today includes evaluating punters, kickers, and return specialists to understand how the unit compares to previous seasons.
This year, Virginia Tech will need to adjust after losing standout punter Peter Moore. Moore was a reliable performer who earned All-ACC recognition, delivering 18 punts inside the 20-yard line last season and averaging over 44 yards per punt. His departure leaves a notable gap in the special teams unit. Filling his shoes is redshirt senior Nick Veltsistas. Though he joins as a preferred walk-on, Veltsistas chose Virginia Tech over scholarship offers from service academies like Air Force and Army, and walk-on opportunities at schools like Liberty and Nevada. Despite his less traditional path, he now has the opportunity to prove himself as the team’s primary punter.
At the kicker position, Virginia Tech will rely once again on redshirt junior John Love. Love emerged as a key contributor for the Hokies last season, providing consistency during offensive struggles. He finished the year converting 16 of 18 field goal attempts and was perfect on all 42 of his extra point tries. Love’s standout moment came with a 57-yard field goal against Miami, demonstrating his range and reliability. His efforts have earned him All-ACC Honorable Mention recognition twice, and he’s expected to continue being a strong asset for the team this fall.
The return game is also seeing significant shifts. Tucker Holloway is poised to reclaim his role as the team’s primary punt returner, though his return follows a challenging period. Holloway missed the 2024 season due to a knee injury suffered during spring training. Head coach Brent Pry acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Holloway’s availability at the time, noting that the player might take a redshirt year, depending on his recovery. Ultimately, the injury sidelined Holloway for the full season, but he is now preparing for a comeback.
Holloway was an essential part of the 2023 Hokies squad, finishing in the top ten nationally in punt return yards. His speed and vision gave the team a strong advantage on special teams. With Jaylin Lane, who filled in as returner in 2024, now off to the NFL, Holloway is expected to step back into his role and potentially provide a spark similar to his All-ACC Third Team season a couple of years ago.
Looking at the unit as a whole, Virginia Tech’s special teams appear to be slightly improved over last year. While the punting position may take a step back without Moore’s experience, other components seem to be trending upward. Love is likely to build on his success and grow even more confident with long-range field goals. Meanwhile, Holloway’s return, assuming full recovery, could reestablish the Hokies’ dominance in the return game.
In summary, Virginia Tech’s special teams unit is undergoing some changes but retains a strong core of talent. With key contributors like John Love and Tucker Holloway, and potential emerging players like Nick Veltsistas, the Hokies continue to uphold their tradition of impactful play on special teams. The 2025 season will be pivotal in determining whether they can maintain or elevate that legacy.
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