The Hokies could be getting some key players back against Clemson this weekend.
In recent weeks, the Virginia Tech football team has been hit hard by injuries. Last Saturday at Syracuse, they were without two key offensive players—quarterback Kyron Drones and running back Bhayshul Tuten—and also lost cornerback Mansoor Delane during the game.
Heading into this week’s matchup against Clemson at Lane Stadium, head coach Brent Pry expressed some uncertainty about the availability of these players. At his weekly press conference on Tuesday, he listed Tuten, Delane, and Drones as questionable for the upcoming ACC showdown. However, by Wednesday, Pry’s outlook seemed more optimistic.
David Cunningham of Tech Sideline reported that Drones, Tuten, and Delane were all moving around well at practice that afternoon. Following practice, Pry provided a more positive update to the media.
“I think all three of them have a good chance [to play Saturday against Clemson] after yesterday and today,” Pry said.
Getting these key players back would be a major boost for the Hokies, especially Drones and Tuten on offense. While Collin Schlee, Malachi Thomas, and Jeremiah Coney all performed admirably in their absence during the loss to Syracuse, the Virginia Tech offense is a different unit when Drones and Tuten are on the field.
Despite the solid play from those filling in, the Hokies were undone by a defensive collapse in the second half, which prevented them from securing the win.
With every team dealing with injuries at this point in the season, Virginia Tech getting Drones, Tuten, and Delane back would provide a significant lift. The Hokies need just one more win to become bowl-eligible, and Saturday’s game against Clemson presents their first opportunity. Having these players healthy and ready to go could be key to achieving that goal.
