Assuming the composition of the ACC remains as it is now (not a sure thing), I do expect VT to be back in that upper group (regularly among top 4 or 5 teams, ACC title contention) within the ACC relatively soon. No reason why they shouldn't be, IMO.I think James will do well at VT in year 1, because it will basically be the Nittany Hokies (or Blue Ridge Lions?) vs. the ACC.
They will be a factor in the ACC in 2026, imo. They'll likely take a loss or two, but they'll be in it.
After that, it will depend on Fla. State and Clemson bouncing back to their usual selves, and Miami continuing to rise, and side-stepping ND in a conference game.... If all that, then they may settle in to the same CJF ceiling as we've witnessed in the B1G. But, those teams aren't the collective equivalent of Ohio State, Oregon, and the weaselrines. Imo.
But I do think it will take a bit longer than "2026" for that to happen. (former)HCJF inherits a not very good roster. Barring huge effective portal impact (and that has never really been a HCJF thing/strength) I expect a few years before things return to upper-tier outcomes for VT in the ACC.
