Another Lost First Half

Although the comeback showed Virginia Tech's potential, another inexplicably slow start and a smorgasbord of unforced errors allowed Rutgers to pound away a 26-23 win in a game where the final score was closer than the on-field performance indicated. Despite three years to turn over the roster and improve the strength and conditioning program, the middle-of-the-pack Big Ten Scarlet Knights were bigger, stronger, and more disciplined. Even when the Hokies matched Rutgers' physicality, mental errors repeatedly knee-capped any attempt to generate positive momentum, as a deflated crowd watched in dismay.

Rutgers left plenty of opportunities for Virginia Tech to make plays, but a clearly shaken Kyron Drones couldn't hit key throws at critical moments — including two deep balls to Da'Quan Felton and a crucial fourth down to Jaylin Lane — to complete the comeback. Now, questions about the long-term viability of this coaching staff and roster are echoing through the Virginia Tech fanbase. This team represents a significant investment by key donors looking to make the Hokies viable in conference realignment. With this return, will the dollars be there to upgrade the coordinators, rebuild the offensive line through NIL, or continue to fund the arms race that college football has become? Or is this the final confirmation that Virginia Tech has regressed to where programs with their financial profile and location outside an ideal recruiting footprint should be? Middle of the pack. These are scary times for fans accustomed to success.

A Lack of Trust Defensively

Perhaps nothing was more disappointing than watching the compete-level of the defense in a game where they were outgunned. When the Hokies won last season, it was against teams with horrific offensive lines and the defensive line feasted. This performance may have been the best effort by the front-seven against a good offensive line. And even with that level of effort, they still were physically dominated. I thought this 2nd-and-2 inside zone was indicative of how much better the Hokies were fundamentally in defending the run, and yet still couldn't match the physicality of the Scarlet Knights.