Last season, Virginia Tech’s offense benefited greatly from the transfer portal. Much of the Hokies’ performance came from players that head coach Brent Pry brought in from other schools. The defense also saw some reinforcements, and one of them played a big role in the turnaround in the final eight games of the season.

Virginia Tech’s offense got going as Baylor transfer Kyron Drones got comfortable along with running back Bhayshul Tuten and wide receivers Jaylin Lane and Da’Quan Felton. On defense, the term “Sacksburg” was used a lot as the defense was under pressure and racked up a lot of sacks. No one had more sacks than Florida transfer Antwaun Powell-Ryland, who led the unit with 9.5.

Powell-Ryland was one of many Hokies to announce their return for the 2024 season, and that was big news for a few reasons. Now that the edge rusher is back, there’s no reason to believe he can’t record the most sacks in the ACC this fall.

Last season, Louisville’s Ashton Gillotte led the conference with 11 sacks, with Powell-Ryland finishing second. Yes, Gillotte is back for Louisville this season, too, but it’s not out of the question that Powell-Ryland could lead the ACC in sacks.

Virginia Tech made some key defensive line additions in the transfer portal, and none are bigger than Duke transfer Aeneas Peebles. His signing will create some holes for Powell-Ryland, as the offensive line won’t be able to double-cover both players. Peebles was a big player for the Blue Devils last year, finishing with 44 tackles and five sacks; both of which should improve this season in Blacksburg.

The Hokies also added Kelvin Gilliam from Oklahoma, Kemari Copeland from Iowa Western Community College and Khurtiss Perry from Alabama to provide additional depth. Of that group, Copeland could be the real wild card.

Not only have the additions in the transfer portal made the defensive line one of the better in the ACC, but it’s also given opposing offenses problems when it comes to blocking. That opens up an opportunity for Powell-Ryland to put more pressure on the quarterback this season and improve his stats and production. Don’t be surprised if he ends the season leading the ACC in sacks.