Virginia Tech OL Gunner Givens has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal, a move confirmed by On3. This decision marks a significant moment for the Hokies as they navigate a challenging offseason.
Another Departure from the Hokies’ Offensive Line
Givens is not alone in this transition; he is the third Hokies offensive lineman to enter the portal on Monday, joining teammates Braelin Moore and Xavier Chaplin. With these departures, Virginia Tech faces a substantial reshuffling of its offensive line as it prepares for the upcoming season.
A Look at Gunner Givens’ Journey
Givens, a former four-star recruit, was highly regarded coming out of high school. According to the On3 Industry Rankings, he was the No. 275 overall player in the 2022 recruiting class and ranked as the No. 20 interior offensive lineman (IOL). However, his journey at Virginia Tech has seen its share of ups and downs. During his true freshman season, Givens utilized his redshirt, which meant he did not see any game action. In 2023, he made an unexpected switch to the defensive line, where he participated in three games and recorded one tackle. It wasn’t until 2024 that he transitioned back to the offensive line, a move that many hoped would reignite his career.
Virginia Tech’s Rushing Attack in 2024
Despite the changes on the offensive line, Virginia Tech showcased one of the most formidable rushing attacks in the ACC this season. The Hokies’ offensive line played a pivotal role in propelling a rushing offense that accumulated over 2,000 yards during the regular season. This impressive feat speaks volumes about the team’s ability to adapt and perform, even amidst personnel changes.
Finishing Strong Against Rivals
The Hokies concluded the regular season with a 6-6 overall record, a respectable finish that included a triumphant victory against in-state rival Virginia in their final game. In a commanding performance, the Hokies defeated the Cavaliers 37-17, rushing for 202 yards and scoring three touchdowns as a team. This win not only secured their bowl eligibility but also showcased the potential of their offense when firing on all cylinders.
The Impact of the Transfer Portal
The NCAA transfer portal officially opened on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, and it has already seen a significant influx of talent. More than 2,800 FBS scholarship players entered their names into the NCAA’s transfer database during the 2023-24 school year. After accounting for those who withdrew or opted for the professional ranks, the final total of transfers stands at 2,707. This staggering number reflects a trend where roughly 25 percent of all FBS scholarship players are hitting free agency in just one year, as noted by On3’s Pete Nakos.
Looking Ahead: The Duke’s Mayo Bowl
As the Hokies prepare for their upcoming matchup against Minnesota in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl on Friday, Jan. 3, they find themselves down in numbers across the offensive line. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET, and fans can catch the action live on ESPN. The Gophers are early favorites in this contest, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the game. How will the Hokies adjust their game plan to compensate for the recent departures?
Staying Updated on Player Movements
For college football enthusiasts eager to keep up with the latest player movements, On3’s Transfer Portal wire is an invaluable resource. Additionally, the On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and their Twitter account provide timely updates on the ever-changing landscape of college football rosters.
As the offseason progresses, the Hokies will need to regroup and strategize effectively. With significant changes on the horizon, the coaching staff faces the challenge of rebuilding the offensive line while maintaining the momentum from a solid season. The upcoming bowl game will serve as a critical opportunity for the team to showcase its resilience and adaptability.
With the excitement of the transfer portal and the anticipation of the bowl game, the college football world is buzzing. Will Virginia Tech rise to the occasion and solidify its standing in the ACC? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the passion for college football remains as strong as ever, and fans are ready for the next chapter.
