Virginia Tech’s Brent Pry Previews Hokies’ Week 1 Clash Against South Carolina
Virginia Tech head coach Brent Pry met with the media on Tuesday to discuss the Hokies’ upcoming season opener against South Carolina. The game kicks off Sunday at 3 p.m. on ESPN from Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta as part of the Aflac Kickoff.
Opening Statement
Pry began by offering thoughts for South Carolina defensive line coach Travian Robertson, who was recently involved in a serious car accident.
“I want to take a moment to send our prayers down to Coach (Travian) Robertson, South Carolina’s D-line coach,” Pry said. “He was in a pretty bad accident. Messaged with Shane (Beamer) a few days ago. It could have cost him his life. So they’re very thankful right now that he’s in recovery. We wish him our best, and certainly to his family.”
He went on to praise his team’s preparation through camp, but acknowledged the challenge ahead.
“Our team is in a good place right now. We had a great camp… But we certainly have a huge challenge with this South Carolina bunch. They’re explosive, they’re fast, they’ve got good size. I would liken them to some of the LSU teams I’ve seen.”
Pry also highlighted the stage, pointing out the exposure for his program.
“The opportunity to be on national television, the opportunity to play in an NFL stadium at a prime time slot, the only game on… that’s why guys come to Virginia Tech,” he said.
On South Carolina and LaNorris Sellers
Pry noted South Carolina’s overall talent, especially at quarterback.
“First of all, I think the hype surrounding LaNorris [Sellers] is accurate… he’s very hard to tackle, he’s got great field presence, he’s a great competitor, and he’s got tremendous size. He’s pretty special.”
He added that the Gamecocks’ roster is deep thanks to transfers and highlighted names like Rahsul Faison and Nyck Harbor on offense, as well as Dylan Stewart and DQ Smith on defense.
“I think their talent level is one of the best in that league,” Pry said. “It’s going to be one of the better teams we’ve seen, period.”
Player Updates and Depth Chart Notes
On Caleb Woodson’s status following recent off-field matters, Pry confirmed:
“There’s certainly internal program consequences at play… As far as his play this weekend, that’s yet to be determined. We removed his captain status with the opportunity to earn it back.”
Pry praised several players who emerged during camp, including receiver Takye Heath, who earned a starting role.
“He’s had his absolute best cycle since we’ve been here… He’s always been talented. He just couldn’t put it together one phase after another… but he’s earned the right to be listed as a starter.”
He also touched on transfers such as Caleb Brown, who’s battling Dante Lovett at cornerback, and new linebackers Michael Short and Antwone Santiago, who have added needed depth.
Offensive Line and Running Backs
Virginia Tech is still fine-tuning its offensive line, with Tomas Rimac and Montavious Cunningham taking starting spots at guard and tackle, respectively. Pry also addressed the running back room, noting there is no clear-cut third option yet behind Marcellous Hawkins and Terrion Stewart.
“They all just bring a little something different,” he said. “I doubt that we have the opportunity to play them all, but you’ll see at least three, if not four of those guys in the ball game.”
Defensive Adjustments
On defense, Pry emphasized flexibility with multiple packages, including safety rotations and nickel looks. “We’ve had some packages that make sense for our personnel,” he explained. “To be able to utilize extra front guys or safety packages, I think it can be an asset for us.”
Situational Football and Program Growth
Pry also noted improvements in situational football, particularly in the red zone, clock management, and two-minute drills.
“We’ve doubled down on red zone. We’ve doubled down on two minutes before the half and before the game… When you think about how important red zone is, and you think about how important two minute is, to spend more time there made too much sense.”
Finally, he acknowledged Virginia Tech athletic director Whit Babcock’s recent push for more football investment.
“I’m very appreciative of Whit, the Board of Visitors… the opportunity to double down on football and the investment there is exciting to me and energizing to a lot of folks around this program.”
