Even after a tough loss in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl, Virginia Tech coach Brent Pry remains optimistic about the future of his program. Wrapping up his third year as head coach, Pry led the Hokies to a 6-7 record this season, just a notch below the 7-6 finish in 2022. But what does this mean for the team moving forward?
Looking Ahead with Optimism
Pry expressed a sense of excitement about the direction in which the Hokies are headed. “I’m excited about the guys returning,” he said. “I’m excited about the class we signed. I’m excited about the transfer portal.” His enthusiasm is palpable, and he believes the team is in a much better place now compared to last year.
It’s not uncommon for teams to experience growing pains, especially when a new coach is trying to instill a fresh culture. Under Pry, Virginia Tech has a cumulative record of 16-21, with only one winning season since 2017. However, he emphasizes that building a successful program takes time.
Building a Strong Foundation
Next season marks a pivotal point for Pry as he approaches his fourth year. This means that most of the players on the roster are those he personally recruited. He has consistently brought in solid recruiting classes, ranking at least in the top eight within the ACC each year. This foundation is crucial for long-term success.
Pry is not just focused on high school recruits; he is also making strategic moves in the transfer portal. The Hokies’ transfer portal class currently ranks No. 24 according to On3’s Transfer Portal Team Rankings. This combination of young talent and experienced transfers is a recipe for growth.
Confidence from Bowl Preparation
Despite the disappointing bowl game result, Pry found confidence in how his team prepared. “I thought this bowl prep gave me confidence in watching these young guys and what they did, how they worked and their practice habits,” he noted. This preparation showcased the potential of the team and highlighted the progress made throughout the season.
Pry’s belief in his players is evident. He pointed out that the core of the football team consists of the recruits he signed, emphasizing that these young athletes have embraced the culture he is building. “The majority of those guys have stuck with us. They understand the culture and they laid the foundation,” he stated.
The Importance of Senior Leadership
While Pry is excited about the future, he also took a moment to acknowledge the contributions of the seniors who played in the bowl game. “I’m so proud of and thankful for them,” he said. “You’ve got eight or nine guys that hung in there with us and played in that game. In today’s times, to me, that speaks volumes.” Their dedication and resilience are key to setting a positive example for the younger players.
This blend of youthful energy and seasoned leadership is what makes college football so compelling. It’s a journey of growth, and every player contributes to the team’s narrative.
Challenges Ahead
Of course, the path to success is rarely smooth. Virginia Tech faces challenges ahead, especially in a competitive ACC landscape. The Hokies will need to continue improving their depth and performance on the field. But with Pry at the helm, there is a sense of hope.
As Pry looks to the future, he understands the importance of nurturing talent and fostering a winning mindset. “We’re just closer in so many areas, whether it’s in our locker room, whether it’s on the field, whether it’s depth,” he explained. This holistic approach is essential for any program aiming for success.
Final Thoughts
As the Hokies move forward, the excitement surrounding the program is palpable. With a solid recruiting strategy, a focus on player development, and a commitment to building a strong culture, Virginia Tech is poised for growth. The combination of returning players, new recruits, and transfer portal additions could be the catalyst for a turnaround.
In college football, every season brings new challenges and opportunities. For Virginia Tech, the future looks bright under Brent Pry’s leadership. As fans, we can only wait and see how this journey unfolds. Will the Hokies rise to the occasion? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the foundation is being laid for a promising future.
