Inside HOKIE SPORTS | Vol. 12 No. 4 | March 2020

inside.hokiesports.com 9 by Jimmy Robertson Nearly three months following a stinging loss to Kentucky in the Belk Bowl, Virginia Tech’s football coaches and players were supposed to enter the second quarter of the offseason—spring practice. Unfortunately, as of press time, spring practice and basically every athletics-related event was suspended “until further notice” by the ACC because of complications related nationally with the coronavirus, and no word as to when, or even if, practice would take place. That stinks for those players—and the many others in other sports who saw their careers end when the NCAA cancelled winter and spring championships. Hasn’t March Madness taken on a much different meaning this year? Still, looking ahead, there is so much for Hokie Nation to be optimistic about with this football program. Quarterback Hendon Hooker went 6-2 in eight starts in 2019, and he returns, along with 17 other starters. The Hokies’ roster appears to be in as good of shape as ever under head coach Justin Fuente’s watch. Tech enters this spring practice with 17 seniors and 27 juniors and a lot of high-upside potential in numerous other players. Speaking of those players, here is a list of ones to watch going forward: Amaré Barno —Barno, a junior college transfer, played in three games in 2019 before ultimately taking a redshirt season. Tech’s staff continues to talk about him as someone to watch, particularly after closely analyzing him during pre-Belk Bowl practices. He certainly brings size to the Hokies’ defense at 6-foot-6 and 235 pounds and also an uncanny ability to run well for someone that size. Tech’s staff now needs to find what position best suits his skill set. The thoughts of him blitzing, either as a linebacker or stand-up defensive end, seem enticing, especially with that tall frame and long arms. Jaylen Griffin —The Hokies need to get more of a pass rush from their defensive line. A year ago, nearly half of the team’s sacks came from linebackers and the secondary. Last August, the staff moved Griffin from linebacker to defensive end, and he showed promise, finishing with 3.5 tackles for a loss, 2.5 sacks, and two fumble recoveries in limited reps. At 260 pounds, he is the biggest defensive end and hopefully can emerge as a pass-rushing threat. The Hokies need for him to be just that. Nick Gallo —Gallo is another player whom the coaches rave about, especially after working him into the lineup as a true freshman this past fall. He learned the ropes from Dalton Keene and James Mitchell, and now with Keene gone, Gallo figures to be used extensively this spring. He resembles Keene at 6-4, 240 pounds and with unlimited toughness, and he may just possess a little more athleticism. Tech’s staff saw several receivers depart after the season, so expect offensive coordinator Brad Cornelsen to showcase Gallo in a more prominent role this spring. He appears to have the goods to handle whatever he gets asked to do. Darryle Simmons/ Jaden Payoute —Speaking of receivers, both of these two find themselves listed here because the Hokies need to for someone to emerge opposite of Tré Turner. Cornelsen plans to work Tayvion Robinson more on the outside this spring, but Robinson may be a better fit for the slot, where he excelled last season. The staff likes the size of Simmons (6-2, 212) and Payoute (6-1, 206) and their skills, but both are unproven—Simmons played in five games this past fall as a redshirt freshman, while Payoute took a redshirt season. Both need to develop quickly and rise to the challenge. Marco Lee —Tech’s staff went with the running back-by-committee approach again in 2019, though Deshawn McClease became the leader toward the end of the season and enjoyed a good fall. McClease elected to declare for the NFL Draft, and now a cluster of tailbacks are vying to become the lead back. That includes Lee, a junior college transfer who enrolled in January. Lee brings size at 5-11, 225 pounds—something the Hokies need at the position—and his highlight video reveals a running back who is a load to bring down. He also displays nice vision in traffic, and he adjusted well on several poorly thrown passes to make catches. Could he be the answer at tailback? It’s a great question. Others certainly merit watching. Can another cornerback emerge before August? Who else factors into the tailback discussion? What about depth at defensive end? Only time will tell. Hopefully, those answers—eventually—will come at some point this spring. Tech football players to watch, as Hokies navigate a turbulent March It’s grill season!! Best selection and best price is now!! Since 1969, Nobody Does it Better!!! 1290 Roanoke Street, Christiansburg, VA 24073 • 540-382-7500 • www.gandhappliance.com Find us at G&H Appliance