Virginia Tech football: Two statistics the Hokies have to improve on in 2021

The Virginia Tech football team has a lot of pressure on them to improve during the 2021 season. Last season was disappointing from an outsider’s perspective in many ways regarding the football program.
The Hokies have a big test this season with some tough opponents on the schedule. Virginia Tech will have a tough season that starts with them playing North Carolina in the opening match. This is a game that could set the tone for the Hokies season.
There are areas on both sides of the field that Tech needs to improve on this season to be successful. We take a look at two of those spots.

Passing offense

The aerial game last season was lacking at times for the Hokies. With Khalil Herbert in the backfield and a solid offensive line, it was easy to rely on the rushing game to produce points and get the ball moving, but that won’t be the case this season.

They finished the 2020 season ranked 12th in the ACC in terms of the passing offense. Braxton Burmeister and Hendon Hooker combined for 158 completions out of 254 attempts and a 62.2% passing accuracy. The Hokies had 2,207 yards and 13 touchdowns through the air. Things will have to improve this season if they hope to compete in the ACC.

Luckily for the Hokies, they have a starting quarterback in Braxton Burmeister, who got time last season and has proved to have a big arm. At the wide receiver position, Tre Turner and Tayvion Robinson remain as the No. 1 and 2 on the outside. Both receivers could have a big season. Turner and Robinson can be utilized in short and deep routes, so they should have a ton of success playing off each other. In addition, they also have tight end James Mitchell who is possibly the best TE in the ACC who will play a big part in the offense.

The running game will still play a big part in this offense, but this season it the offense should be more balanced especially if the passing offense will have a chance to be dangerous in 2021.

Passing defense

The defense struggled last season to stop high-powered offenses through the air. The Hokies, however, dealt with a lot of injuries, opt-outs, and COVID protocols which made it difficult to put a consistent defense out each week.

They were 13th (next to last) in the ACC in terms of passing defense. The defense allowed a 61.7% passing accuracy, 2,926 yards, and 19 touchdowns during the 2020 campaign. The defensive backfield has got to tighten their coverage and shut down the opposing teams’ receivers. They’ll have a big test to go up against in week one with Heisman Trophy favorite in North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Sam Howell.