Defense fuels Hokies’ hot start, but October challenges loom

Virginia Tech Head Coach Justin Fuente’s new look offense may have grabbed all the offseason headlines in Blacksburg, but a much-improved defense led by coordinator Bud Foster and seven returning starters from 2015 has provided Hokies with their best start since 2013.

After four games, the Tech defense is surrendering just 264 yards per game–good enough for 9th best in the nation out of 128 FBS schools–compared to a year ago where they were allowing 375 yards per game through their first four contests. The Hokies are also allowing a mere 19 points per game–tied for 28th–compared to 26 points per game at this point last season.

That said, October will provide much tougher tasks for Virginia Tech than September did. During their first four contests, the Hokies didn’t face an offense ranked higher than 85th (Tennessee, who handed VT their only loss) and played an FCS foe, Liberty, who only has one win. Meanwhile, Virginia Tech’s next two opponents, defending ACC Coastal Division Champion North Carolina and Syracuse, are both ranked in the top 40 nationally in total offense.

There’s been a lot to like about the start of the Justin Fuente era if you’re a Hokie fan, but as the calendar turns and the leaves change, will the momentum continue on in Blacksburg?