The Virginia Tech Hokies are charging into the 2025 college football season with renewed energy, a revamped coaching staff, and a dramatically overhauled roster. Under the leadership of head coach Brent Pry, now entering his fourth season at the helm, the Hokies are signaling a bold new era in Blacksburg.
Pry, determined to elevate Virginia Tech back into ACC contention, has made sweeping changes to both the offensive and defensive units. The most striking transformation: more than 30 new players have joined the program through transfers and recruiting, setting the stage for a drastically different team from last year.
Among the offseason’s biggest moves is the hiring of Philip Montgomery as offensive coordinator. A seasoned play-caller known for explosive, uptempo offenses, Montgomery brings creativity and urgency to a Hokies offense that struggled with consistency in 2024.
On the other side of the ball, newly hired defensive coordinator Sam Siefkes arrives with a reputation for toughness and discipline. He’s expected to bring an aggressive defensive identity, emphasizing pressure and turnovers to disrupt opposing offenses.
The team’s first test will come under the bright lights of a primetime season opener against South Carolina — a nationally televised clash that will serve as a litmus test for how far Pry’s overhaul has come. The matchup promises to be a battle of contrasting styles, with the Hokies’ fresh schemes facing off against an established SEC opponent.
At quarterback, Garret Rangel, a transfer from Oklahoma State, could make his Hokies debut if Kyron Drones isn’t fully recovered from injury. Rangel brings experience and composure, while Drones remains the more mobile and dynamic option — a decision that could shape the early weeks of the season.
Offensively, fans should keep a close eye on the wide receiver room. Despite the transfer of freshman Jayden Anderson, Pry remains confident in returning talents like Ayden Greene and Donavon Greene, who are expected to play key roles in stretching the field and creating explosive plays.
On defense, the arrival of linebacker Antwone Santiago (from Temple) and defensive lineman Elhadj Fall (from Georgia Southern) adds needed depth and experience to a front seven looking to make an immediate impact in the ACC.
Virginia Tech’s culture under Pry continues to evolve, focusing on accountability, toughness, and development. The drastic roster changes aren’t just about talent — they’re about building a team that reflects those core values and can execute at a higher level.
Expectations remain cautious yet hopeful among Hokie Nation. Analysts predict a possible 7–5 season, with the South Carolina opener viewed as a key momentum game that could tilt the team toward bowl eligibility or another rebuilding year.
Adding to the buzz is Lane Stadium’s ever-intense environment, bolstered by the iconic “Enter Sandman” entrance that never fails to ignite fans and players alike. That energy will be crucial as the Hokies look to make a statement right out of the gate.
As the countdown to kickoff begins, one thing is clear — Virginia Tech isn’t just rebuilding. They’re redefining what Hokie football can look like in 2025 and beyond.