Virginia Tech Releases Depth Chart Ahead of Matchup Against Vanderbilt

As the 2024 college football season approaches, excitement is building around Virginia Tech’s season opener against Vanderbilt. The Hokies have recently unveiled their official depth chart, offering a glimpse into the lineup and strategy that will define their season. With a roster packed with returning talent and some fresh faces, Virginia Tech is poised to make a significant impact this year.

The depth chart announcement is always a moment of intrigue for fans and analysts alike, as it reveals how the coaching staff, led by head coach Brent Pry, plans to approach the new season. This year’s chart showcases a blend of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating season.

Offensive Line:

The offensive line, a crucial component of any successful football team, sees some clear decisions with Layth Ghannam earning the starting position at left guard. Ghannam, a redshirt freshman, will be pivotal in protecting the quarterback and establishing the run game. Behind him, Montavious Cunningham, Bob Schick, Brody Meadows, and Johnny Garrett are listed as reserves, providing depth and flexibility to the line.

Quarterback:

At quarterback, the battle has been settled with Kyron Drones securing the starting role. The redshirt junior stands at 6-2 and 234 pounds, offering a strong, athletic presence under center. Drones, known for his dual-threat capability, will be backed up by Collin Schlee, a redshirt senior who brings experience and a steady hand to the position.

Running Back:

The running back position features two standout players: Bhayshul Tuten and Malachi Thomas. Tuten, a senior, is expected to be the primary back, thanks to his proven ability to gain yards and make plays. Thomas, a redshirt junior, will provide valuable support and is poised to see significant action throughout the season.

Wide Receiver:

Virginia Tech’s receiving corps is a blend of size and speed, with Da’Quan Felton and Stephen Gosnell leading the charge. Felton, a graduate with a tall and imposing frame at 6-5 and 216 pounds, is expected to be a key target in the passing game. Gosnell, also a graduate, brings a solid presence at 6-2 and 198 pounds. Alongside them, Jaylin Lane and Takye Heath offer additional options, with Lane being a graduate and Heath a redshirt freshman. Ali Jennings, another graduate, and sophomore Ayden Greene will further bolster the receiving group, providing a mix of reliability and potential.

Tight End:

The tight end position features Benji Gosnell and Nick Gallo, with Gosnell, a redshirt sophomore, and Gallo, a graduate, expected to be primary contributors. Harrison Saint Germain, also a redshirt sophomore, is listed as an OR, indicating a competitive position where either player could see significant time on the field.

Offensive Line:

The depth chart reveals a strong offensive line lineup, with Xavier Chaplin and Johnny Garrett competing for the left tackle spot. Chaplin, a redshirt sophomore, stands at an imposing 6-7 and 323 pounds, while Garrett, also a redshirt sophomore, offers a solid 6-5 and 315-pound frame. At right tackle, Parker Clements, a redshirt senior, and Montavious Cunningham, a redshirt junior, will vie for the starting role. The guard positions see Layth Ghannam and Brody Meadows as the primary options, with Kaden Moore and Bob Schick anchoring the center and right guard spots.

Defensive Line:

On the defensive side, the Hokies have a formidable lineup. Defensive end Antwaun Powell-Ryland, a redshirt senior, will be a key figure, alongside C.J. McCray. At defensive tackle, Josh Fuga and Kelvin Gilliam Jr. are listed as OR, reflecting a competitive battle for the starting spot. Aeneas Peebles, a graduate transfer, and Wilfried Pene, a redshirt senior, provide additional depth, with Kemari Copeland, a junior, also in the mix.

Linebackers:

The linebacker corps features some of Virginia Tech’s most experienced players. Jaden Keller and Keli Lawson are listed as OR for the Will linebacker position, indicating a strong competition for this crucial role. Sam Brumfield and Jayden McDonald are the primary candidates for the Mike linebacker spot, bringing a mix of experience and youth to the position. At the STAR position, Keonta Jenkins, a graduate, and Caleb Woodson, a sophomore, will look to make significant contributions.

Defensive Backs:

In the secondary, the Hokies have a mix of experienced and emerging talent. Mansoor Delane and Dante Lovett are listed as the starting cornerbacks, with Delane, a junior, and Lovett, a sophomore, providing a solid combination of size and skill. At safety, Jalen Stroman and Jaylen Jones are the primary options, while Mose Phillips III and Quentin Reddish offer additional depth and potential.

Special Teams:

Special teams are critical for field position and scoring opportunities, and Virginia Tech has a competitive lineup here as well. John Love and Kyle Lowe are the primary kickers, with Love being a redshirt sophomore and Lowe a redshirt junior. Peter Moore and Nick Veltsistas are the punters, providing options for controlling field position. Kickoff duties will be shared by Lowe and Love, while Moore and Veltsistas will handle holding responsibilities. In the return game, Bhayshul Tuten and Malachi Thomas will handle kick returns, and Jaylin Lane and Ali Jennings will take on punt return duties. Christian Epling and Tate Kendall are the long snappers, ensuring accurate snaps on special teams plays.

The Big Picture:

As Virginia Tech gears up for its opener against Vanderbilt, the depth chart provides valuable insights into the team’s strategy and player expectations. With a roster full of experienced players and talented newcomers, the Hokies are well-positioned for a successful season. The depth chart not only highlights the team’s strengths but also indicates areas of competition and potential for growth.

For fans and analysts, the release of the depth chart is a key moment in the preseason, offering a glimpse into how the coaching staff envisions the team’s lineup and strategy. As the season progresses, this depth chart will undoubtedly evolve, with players emerging and roles shifting based on performance and injuries.

The matchup against Vanderbilt will serve as a significant test for Virginia Tech, providing an early opportunity to gauge the effectiveness of their lineup and strategy. With a strong roster and high expectations, the Hokies are set to make a statement in their season opener and beyond. The depth chart is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and memorable season for Virginia Tech football.