The Virginia Tech Hokies concluded their 2024 football season with disappointment after suffering a 24-10 loss to Minnesota during the Duke's Mayo Bowl at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. With the season closing on such a note, questions abound about the future of the program under head coach Brent Pry, who faced challenges with injuries and roster depletion throughout the season.
During the game, officiate decisions were notable. Coach Pry expressed frustration, particularly about two missed defensive pass interference calls and roughing the passer on Minnesota. After being pushed to the limit, he received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. "To me, there were a few minor things early they [referees] missed. Then the back-to-back no calls. I didn't see it. I didn't understand it. We're going to fight for every inch we can get," he later remarked. This incident marks another chapter of the season where officiate calls influenced the game's outcome.
Pry also reflected on his team’s performance, especially their lack of execution. Many players were sidelined, and the youthful roster struggled against the bigger and tougher Big Ten Minnesota team. "Disappointed in the loss. Had our chances. Didn't make plays. They made more plays than we did," Pry said, which embodies the frustration felt by the coaching staff and the fan base.
One bright spot during the game emerged from kicker John Love, who made history with a stunning 60-yard field goal, tying the record for the longest field goal kick at the Duke's Mayo Bowl. This achievement surpassed the previous record set by another Hokie kicker, Brian Johnson. Love's feat was bittersweet, as it brought the Hokies within eleven points, yet they managed to score no more, ending the game with no additional points.
It wasn't just the kicking game where the Hokies faced challenges. Quarterback Pop Watson started the game strong but ended with just 81 passing yards on eight completions and one interception. His backup, Collin Schlee, also struggled to find the end zone, completing just two out of six attempts. The offensive struggles, paired with missed opportunities to score within Minnesota's territory, proved costly as the Hokies exited the game without maximally capitalizing on pivotal moments.
Brent Pry indicated this game offered valuable experience for younger players, hinting at optimism for the future. "I'm excited about the guys returning. I'm excited about the guys we signed. I'm excited about the guys from the transfer portal," he said. With players like Watson and fellow quarterback Kyron Drones returning, competition is expected to ramp up heading toward the 2025 season.
While there are glimmers of hope, the Hokies enter what can be perceived as a make-or-break season. With the need to hire a new defensive coordinator looming overhead, fans and critics alike will watch closely to see if Pry can replicate past successes like the hiring of Matt Moore for the offensive line. Given the gravity of the upcoming season, the pressure is on both Pry and his staff to deliver results.
Overall, the Hokies' season encapsulated numerous highs and lows, underscored by the team's ability to fight through adversity, yet fell short of ensuring a promising postseason. With the lowest attendance recorded for the Duke’s Mayo Bowl and the team's disheartening arch, only time will tell how Virginia Tech navigates the pivotal 2025 season.