CBS Sports question for Virginia Tech football in 2024 is one that fans are hoping comes true

Entering the 2023 season, there were a lot of questions surrounding the Virginia Tech football team, and rightfully so. As the season went along, they answered a lot of them and it ended with them surprising a lot of people by going 5-3 in the ACC and becoming bowl-eligible.

Going into the the 2024 season, there are still some questions, but not as many as the Hokies have had a lot of retention and bring back most of their roster. CBS Sports college football writer Chip Patterson does have one question facing all 17 ACC teams going into the spring and his for Virginia Tech is one that a lot of people are eager to see.

Patterson's question for the Hokies is, Can the on-field product match the off-field buzz?

"The dark horse conversation in the ACC heading into 2024 includes Virginia Tech because there's proof of concept in Brent Pry's plan and the schedule sets up favorably to enter November with a spot in the ACC title race. The Hokies have loads of skill talent back from a group that exceeded expectations in 2023 with a 5-3 conference record and a bowl win, making Virginia Tech a team that everyone is keeping an eye on this spring. It's been a while since Virginia Tech has entered a season with some legitimate hype, but if the on-paper strengths play out on the field, this is one of the most dangerous teams in the league. "

- Chip Patterson

There is no doubt that the Hokies are bringing back a lot of key contributors on offense and defense, while adding some depth and needs in the tranfser portal. Quarterback Kyron Drones along with running back Bhayshul Tuten return, as does most of the offensive line and four wide receivers. They put up some points late in the season and if healthy, there is no reason they can't again.

Defensively, they bring back Antwaun Powell-Ryland and his 9.5 sacks along the line, while adding some key pieces in the portal. Mansoor Delane and Dorian Strong return to anchor the secondary and some of the incoming freshmen have an opportunity to push the veterans for playing time next fall. So yes, there is a lot of hype around Virginia Tech and I do think that most fans are hoping that the offseason hype going into the season with on-field products can make them a sleeper in the ACC in 2024.