After just over a month between games, the Virginia Tech football team finally plays their bowl game on Friday night at Bank of America Stadium against Minnesota in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl. Win or lose, this is a stepping stone for Virginia Tech into what feels like a very big 2025 campaign for Brent Pry and the program.
The Hokies will be shorthanded against the Gophers, but again, win or lose, this is a golden opportunity for some of the younger players to get some primetime playing time. Despite losing several players to the portal, and the portal remains open for Virginia Tech until five days after the bowl game, they have added some pieces through the portal and even got some retainment from some younger players. As the Hokies play the final game of the season, here are some staff picks from Fighting Gobbler.
Scott Roche: Site expert
This is a very tall task for Virginia Tech with the number of key players not playing in the game. It will be interesting to see how some of the younger players perform and use it as a springboard for 2025. In the end, the Gophers are one of the tougher teams that the Hokies could have drawn this bowl season under P.J. Fleck and they will get the win and cover the 9.5-point spread according to DraftKings.
Prediction: Minnesota 31, Virginia Tech 16
Paul Petera: Contributor
The Hokies have less than half of their starters from the Virginia game available for the Duke’s Mayo Bowl, and are down three of their five starting offensive linemen against a seasoned Minnesota front seven. Tech can hang in there with a spirited defensive effort, but points may be hard to come by against a Gopher defense that allows a paltry 17.5 points per game.
Prediction: Minnesota 20, Virginia Tech 13
Adam Firebaugh: Contributor
Minnesota this season has looked like numerous Tech squads over the years, relying on a stout defense to overcome underwhelming, but adequate offensive performances. Consequently, the Hokies must find a way to excel behind Pop Watson, who probably will struggle more than he did against UVA. To compensate for the loss of key starters to the transfer portal and injuries, young players on both sides of the ball will be pivotal to the Hokies’ success. Barring a perfect performance, I don’t see Tech being able to “next man up” its way to a win.
Prediction: Minnesota 27 Virginia Tech 17
Roy Hatfield: Contributor
I can’t seem to get a clear picture of this one. If Virginia Tech was full strength, I would be all over the Hokies. With so many key opt-outs, however, I’m not sure how Virginia Tech is going to put up enough points in this one. I’m sure the Hokies will see a steady diet of ground and pound from the Gophers, and that does not bode well. I’m calling for a good old-fashioned rock fight, with the Gophers pulling away late.