As the Virginia Tech Hokies gear up for their upcoming matchup against the Duke Blue Devils, the latest practice updates have left some uncertainty hanging over the team’s preparations. Coach Brent Pry and his staff are facing a few key player injuries that could significantly impact their game plan. Quarterback Kyron Drones’ status is questionable, running back Keshawn King will likely miss the game, and star linebacker Dax Hollifield is listed as day-to-day. With a critical ACC showdown on the horizon, here’s what fans and analysts need to know about Virginia Tech’s practice report leading up to their game against Duke.
Kyron Drones’ Status Remains Uncertain
One of the most pressing concerns for Virginia Tech fans heading into the Duke game is the status of starting quarterback Kyron Drones. Drones, who has shown flashes of brilliance this season, has been dealing with a nagging injury that has left his participation in practice limited. Coach Pry described Drones’ condition as “iffy,” meaning the Hokies could be without their starting signal-caller unless he makes significant progress in the coming days.
If Drones is unable to play, backup quarterback Grant Wells would likely take over the reins. Wells, who has seen significant action this season, would bring a different dynamic to the offense, with a more experienced and traditional pocket presence. However, the Hokies will be hoping that Drones can recover in time, as his dual-threat ability has been a major asset to their offensive game plan.
The decision on Drones’ availability will likely come down to a gametime decision, with Pry indicating that they are monitoring his recovery closely. For Virginia Tech, losing Drones for this important ACC matchup could be a blow, especially with the Blue Devils’ tough defense posing a major challenge.
Keshawn King to Sit Out
In addition to the uncertainty at quarterback, Virginia Tech will be without one of its key running backs in Keshawn King. The junior running back has been a steady contributor to the Hokies’ ground game this season but is expected to miss the Duke game due to injury. This loss will likely place more pressure on the remaining running back options, such as Malachi Thomas and Jalen Holston.
The Hokies’ running game has been inconsistent at times, so not having King in the backfield makes it even more important for the offense to establish a rhythm early in the game. Expect to see more from Thomas, assuming he’s cleared to play, and Holston, who will have to step up in King’s absence. With the Hokies’ offense already facing a potential quarterback change, they will need a strong showing from their running backs to keep Duke’s defense on its heels.
Dax Hollifield Day-to-Day
On the defensive side of the ball, Virginia Tech is also facing a key injury to one of its most important leaders, linebacker Dax Hollifield. The senior linebacker, who has been a cornerstone of the Hokies’ defense, is currently listed as day-to-day with a lingering injury. Hollifield has been one of the most consistent players on the team this season, and his leadership in the middle of the defense will be sorely missed if he is unable to go against Duke.
While it is still unclear whether Hollifield will be able to suit up, his status will be closely watched as the game approaches. If Hollifield is unable to play, Virginia Tech will likely rely on other linebackers such as Alan Tisdale or Keshawn Artis to step into a bigger role. However, replacing Hollifield’s experience and leadership would be a tough task for the Hokies defense, particularly against a well-coached Duke offense led by quarterback Riley Leonard.
Tuten a Game-Time Decision
Another injury concern for Virginia Tech involves running back Bhayshul Tuten. Tuten has shown flashes of potential this season, and his ability to make explosive plays out of the backfield has been a bright spot for the Hokies’ offense. However, Tuten’s status is still uncertain, as he has been dealing with an injury that has kept him limited in practice.
Coach Pry has listed Tuten as a game-time decision, and his availability will depend on how he feels in the lead-up to the game. If Tuten is able to go, his presence could provide a much-needed boost to the Hokies’ backfield, particularly with King out and the offense potentially turning to Wells at quarterback. Without Tuten, Virginia Tech will need to rely more heavily on Thomas and Holston to carry the load in the running game.
The Road Ahead for Virginia Tech
With a pivotal ACC game against Duke on the horizon, the Hokies are facing a challenging road ahead, with several key players dealing with injuries. The Blue Devils, under the guidance of head coach Mike Elko, have been playing tough football this season, particularly on defense, and will not be an easy opponent for a Virginia Tech team that could be missing several starters.
For the Hokies, the ability to adapt and make adjustments on the fly will be crucial. If Drones is unable to play, the coaching staff will need to devise a game plan that maximizes the strengths of Wells, the running backs, and the defense. Even with injuries to key players, Virginia Tech has enough talent to compete, but the health of Drones, King, Hollifield, and Tuten could ultimately determine the outcome of this crucial game.
Fans will be watching closely for any updates as game day approaches, hoping for good news regarding the health of these key players. While injuries are a part of the game, Virginia Tech’s resilience and ability to overcome adversity will be tested as they face off against Duke in a game that could have significant implications for both teams’ ACC standings.
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