One national CFB writer thinks Virginia Tech can be a "Cinderella'' team in 2024

When the 2024 college football season begins, the playoff system goes from four teams to 12, which opens the door for more schools to play meaningful football in late October and November. There are high expectations for Virginia Tech after the strong finish to the 2023 season that ended with a Military Bowl victory over Tulane.

Another reason for optimism around Blacksburg is the retention that head coach Brent Pry got from key players and some key additions in the transfer portal. Some teams could make a Cinderella run to the CFP next season and one national college football writer thinks the Hokies could be one of those teams.

"You need to squint to see the path for Virginia Tech next season. But it's there.

The Hokies quietly took a step last year, finishing 7-6 after a disastrous 1-3 start. Much of that growth came on the offensive side of the ball, where Virginia Tech turned to Kyron Drones who emerged as one of the top running QBs in all CFB (818 yards, 5 TDs).

The offense's improvement and a top-25 defense gave the Brent Pry era some legitimate juice entering 2024.

The reason for 2024 bullishness is almost the entire team returns. Virginia Tech leads the FBS with 86% returning production. That's a ton of experience, which gives the Hokies a chance to make a run against what is a generally friendly ACC schedule. "

- Chris Hummer 247Sports

Hummer also went on to say that if Drones takes the next step and the offensive line in front of him plays well, the Hokies will be a team to watch. He is right about one thing, Virginia Tech does have a friendly ACC schedule with no North Carolina State, Louisville, or Florida State to name a few. Clemson is at home and Miami will be in South Florida. Syracuse could be a tough November road game.

The playoffs are not out of the question for the Hokies in 2024 if they stay healthy and people outside of Blacksburg will see it as a Cinderella run, but inside Hokie Nation, it wouldn't be surprising.