As we move into the 2025 college football season, Virginia Tech football head coach Brent Pry finds himself at the top of a rather dubious list. Despite coming to Blacksburg with high hopes and the promise of revitalizing the Hokies’ program, Pry’s tenure so far has been marred by disappointing results and mounting pressure from both fans and administration alike.
Pry, who took over as head coach in 2022, inherited a program that was on a downward trajectory after the firing of longtime head coach Frank Beamer’s successor, Justin Fuente. The Hokies had been struggling to maintain the competitive edge that had once made them a staple in the ACC and a consistent contender for bowl games. However, Pry’s first two years at the helm have left much to be desired.
In 2023, Virginia Tech finished with a 5-7 record, falling short of bowl eligibility. While the Hokies showed some improvement in certain areas, inconsistency plagued their performance across the board, and many of their losses came in heart-wrenching, close games. A lack of offensive identity and defensive breakdowns were recurring issues that hindered any potential growth.
Heading into the 2025 season, the Hokies are still searching for their identity under Pry’s leadership. His inability to produce consistent wins and elevate the program has led to growing skepticism about his long-term prospects at Virginia Tech. While it’s true that rebuilding a program takes time, expectations have been tempered as fans and analysts question whether Pry is the right man to return Virginia Tech to its former glory.
For many coaches, 2025 will be a make-or-break season. If Pry cannot show significant progress and achieve a bowl game appearance, his seat will undoubtedly become much hotter. The Hokies have traditionally been known for their tough, disciplined play, especially under Beamer’s leadership, and the fan base is anxious to see whether Pry can recapture that spirit and restore success.
Though the challenge is great, it is not insurmountable. With some key recruits coming in and a possible improvement in coaching strategies, the 2025 season could be the turning point for Pry. However, the mounting pressure to succeed makes it clear that failure is no longer an option.