OFFENSE DEFENSE

Multi-faceted quarterback Brennan Armstrong has taken off for NC State leaving the Cavaliers with transfer Tony Muskett from Monmouth at quarterback. Muskett is a veteran starter, makes few mistakes, but is nothing flashy. The offensive line lost the left side to the transfer portal (Logan Taylor and John Paul Flores), but gained Ugonna Nnanna and Jimmy Christ in the same manner. That’s basically a push, so the line that struggled mightily last season may not be much better this season. The leading running backs all return, but Clemson transfer Kobe Pace will get the most carries. The receiving corps was depleted, but help has arrived in Malik Washington, a two-year starter at Northwestern. Washington had 109 catches for 1,272 yards over the past two seasons. Tight end Grant Misch is the only returning player with more than five catches last season.

The Virginia defense wasn’t bad at all last season, especially considering how little the offense pitched in to take pressure off of the defense. Opponents averaged just 3.8 yards per carry, five yards per play and converted just 37 percent on third down. The unit returns virtually intact, other than the two corners and linebacker Nick Jackson. Josh Ahern, who played significantly in the rotation last season, takes over for Jackson. Transfers Malcolm Greene (Clemson) and Tayvonn Kyle (Iowa State) will be the new corners. The front seven should be a strength, especially the line. Kam Butler and Chico Bennett Jr. were able to apply pressure off the edges last season, and Jahmeer Carter and Aaron Faumui provided a healthy push in the middle. James Jackson makes plays all over the field, and safety Jonas Sanker was the second-leading tackler.

Special Teams

Special Teams

2023 Schedule Newcomers

Jaden Gibson, WR — With ample opportunity to show off his skills, Gibson has played his way onto the depth chart and will get some reps early in the season. He could also become a factor in the return game.

Kamren Robinson, LB — Given the low numbers at linebacker, freshman Robinson will likely be thrown into the fire at some point this season.

Malik Washington, WR — The dependable receiver became a go-to player for Northwestern last season.

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA

HEAD COACH: Brent Pry

OC: Tyler Bowen

DC: Chris Marve

2022 RECORD: 3-8 (1-6)

FOUNDED: 1872

STADIUM: Lane (65,632)