It wasn't all that surprising that Virginia Tech struggled to emerge victorious in the Duke's Mayo Bowl against Minnesota. The short-handed Hokies had a tall order against a veteran Minnesota squad, and as a result the mayonnaise bath went to Gophers head coach PJ Fleck instead of Brent Pry.
But the game was an audition for many younger Hokies who got an opportunity for a larger role, and a glimpse at what they may be able to contribute in 2025. The following are just a handful of players who acquitted themselves well and should leave Tech fans excited about their future.
Offense
Ayden Greene is certainly a name fans know, as he was a fixture in the receiver rotation all year. But the sophomore who logged ten receptions for 117 yards in the first 11 games of the season grabbed nine for 151 in the last two. He'll be a leader in the receiver room next year.
Keylen "Brodie" Adams got his first reception (for 14 yards) and first carry (for 47) in the bowl game and absolutely looked like he belonged.
Although the Hokies have help on the way via the transfer portal at running back, it was great to see Tyler Mason get his first real action (seven carries, 33 yards). The freshman ran with purpose and looks like he can be counted on to at least provide solid depth next season.
Defense
We've seen sophomore Dante Lovett get extensive play this year, but the bowl game in Charlotte Friday night was just his second start. He responded with six tackles and a fourth quarter interception. The secondary also has help on the way, but Lovett has established himself as a leader on this team and a huge contributor in 2025.
Also in the secondary, we got an extended look at redshirt freshman Thomas Williams, who got his first start of the season. Williams was around the ball all night, and picked up six of his 14 tackles in the 2024 season against the Gophers. It was a night to build on for the Greenville, SC native.
Tech fans were excited to get their first extended look at DL Emmett Laws. After getting a few snaps against Virginia, the freshman out of DeMatha Catholic picked up his first two tackles of the season. With his redshirt preserved, Laws and his tremendous work ethic have another offseason to get stronger and the door is open for him to really contribute next year.
These are just a handful of players on each side of the ball whose names should be called more frequently next year. There were definitely more, and their exposure in the bowl game as well as the month of bowl practices leading up to Friday night will serve them well.