There are high expectations for the Virginia Tech Hokies football team of 2024. The Hokies, who went 7-6 last season and won a bowl game, return 20 starters this season. Along with acquiring several key players through the NCAA transfer portal and signing a solid freshman class, expectations are the highest they've been in Blacksburg in years.
One of those returning players is third-year quarterback Kyron Draughns, who took over as Virginia Tech's starting quarterback in Week 3 and dramatically improved the offense. Offensive coordinator Tyler Bowen implemented a strategy that took advantage of Draughns' dual-threat abilities, and the Hokies won five of their final seven games.
With Draughns back and all of his weapons back, running back Beischul Teuten and wide receivers Quan Felton, Ali Jennings and Jaylin Lane all returning, and most of the starting defense returning, Virginia Tech is poised to have its best season in years.
If the Hokies win nine or 10 games and compete for the ACC title, will the Drowns gain national recognition?
On3's Jesse Simonton recently ranked the top five ACC players who could be Heisman Trophy candidates in 2024. Draughns came in fourth.
Since Brent Pry turned his attention to Draughns, the Hokies offense has woken up and is now outproducing any team in the country offensively in 2024. Draughns is a true dual talent, throwing 17 touchdowns with just three interceptions and rushing for nearly 1,000 yards.
If he starts a full season, he could potentially gain over 4,000 total yards. In most years, it's unlikely that Draughns would be competing for the Heisman, but what if he puts up big numbers in a crowded race and leads the Hokies to an incredible 10-2 season?
For Virginia Tech, winning is everything. If the Hokies win, the quarterback will get all the accolades. If the Hokies have a successful season, Draughns will be a big factor in that success. So while he shouldn't go into the season expecting to be a Heisman Trophy candidate, the hope is there.
The fact that we're even talking about this as a possibility is a positive for Virginia Tech football.
