Virginia Tech announces hire of new defensive coordinator

Virginia Tech football is solidifying the new coaching staff since the hiring of former Penn State assistant coach and defensive coordinator Brent Pry.

On Tuesday, the Hokies announced the hiring of Virginia Tech’s new defensive coordinator, Chris Marve.

Marve comes to Virginia Tech after serving as defensive run game coordinator/linebackers coach at Florida State for the past two seasons. Marve helped the Seminoles make dramatic strides in their run defense in 2021. Florida State allowed 147.6 rushing ypg game this past season, a 51.6 ypg improvement compared to the 2020 campaign

In 2020, Marve helped the Seminoles linebacker corps flourish as the group combined for 218 total tackles, including 17.5 TFL.
 

Virginia Tech has a long-standing tradition of playing hard-nosed defense and with Pry’s expertise from his time at Penn State, it’s clear he will have say on that side of the ball with Marve leading the way.
 
Marve has been recognized as a rising star in the coaching profession for several years. He earned a spot on the American Football Coaches Association 35 Under 35 list in 2017, in addition to the 247 Sports 30 Under 30 coaching squad in both 2017 and 2018. He also earned a spot on ESPN’s 40 Under 40 list of ascending coaching stars in 2018.

Virginia Tech determined to become national contender

Like many college towns, Blacksburg, Va. has a distinct feel. Most everything, from restaurants, to banks and local stores are attached to Virginia Tech football.

For so many years, the Hokies rode behind legendary former Hokies’ front man Frank Beamer. There’s a reason his name if plastered everywhere on campus and his statue

When Virginia Tech athletic director Whit Babcock–who has been praised for his track record of landing great coaches for all programs– landed Justin Fuente? Much like Pry now, there was optimism from everyone associated with the program and both local and national media tabbed it as a great hire.

Fuente thrived early and was touted by programs like Baylor just a few seasons ago. But a multitude of reasons led to a shift. The fan base was tired of Fuente and the team was declining in his 6th year.

Is Pry the guy? Time will tell, but he’s starting to round out his staff and soon, will get to work to turn the Hokies into a national contender.