How good can the Virginia Tech Hokies be in 2024? While some projections have the Hokies finishing fifth or sixth in the ACC in 2024, preseason accolades continue to pile up for several Virginia Tech players.

ESPN recently released its top 100 college football players for 2024, and two Hokies made the cut. Both are defensive players, starting at No. 63 with defensive end Antwaun Powell-Ryland.

Powell-Ryland transferred from Florida to Virginia Tech last season and had big success in his first year with the Hokies, recording 40 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss (fifth in the ACC) and 9.5 sacks (second in the ACC). Powell-Ryland had multiple sacks in four games last season and hopes to be more consistent in 2024.

Powell-Ryland had his best year after transferring from Florida to Virginia Tech last year. He was dominant in parts of last season and should have been selected to the All-ACC first team. The Hokies could have one of the best defensive lines in college football with impressive depth at the defensive end and defensive tackle positions, which could give Powell-Ryland more opportunities to increase his sack numbers.

Senior cornerback Dorian Strong came in at number 88.

Virginia Tech likes to boast about its reputation as a DBU, but it’s been a while since the Hokies have produced a true star at the position. Strong will change that. Last season, Strong was as dominant as any cornerback in the country. Quarterbacks completed just 25% of their throws to him and allowed just 2.8 yards per target (third in the FBS) and just 0.29 yards per coverage snap.

Strong had a terrific season last year and it was a surprise that the Hokies convinced him to return for another season.

With so many starters returning in 2024, the Hokies have a chance to have a special season. Quarterback Kyron Drones, running back Bhayshul Tuten and wide receiver Dae’Quan Felton led an offense that looked completely different in the second half of last season.