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2/7/2010 9:29a		Spring Schedules for VT Football Virginia Tech Football Upcoming Dates Virginia Tech Spring Break Ends - 3/14/10 Virginia Tech Football 6 a.m. Conditioning Begins - 3/15/10 Virginia Tech Football 6 a.m. Conditioning Ends - 3/26/10 Virginia Tech Football Spring Practice Session #1 - 3/31/10 Virginia Tech Football Spring Game - 4/24/10, 2 pm, Lane Stadium, Free Admission Spring Practice Schedule Wed. 3/31/10 - Session 1 Fri. 4/2/10 - Session 2 Sat. 4/3/10 - Session 3 Mon 4/5/10 - Session 4 Wed. 4/7/10 - Session 5 Fri. 4/9/10 - Session 6 Sat. 4/10/10 - Session 7 Mon. 4/12/10 - Session 8 Wed. 4/14/10 - Session 9 Fri. 4/16/10 - Session 10 Sat. 4/17/10 - Session 11 Mon. 4/19/10 - Session 12 Wed. 4/21/10 - Session 13 Fri. 4/23/10 - Session 14 Sat. 4/24/10 - Session 15, Spring Game, 2 pm, Lane Stadium, Free Admission
2/4/2010 2:35p		NEW RULES Effective August 1, 2010, in NCAA football, an institution can sign no more than 28 student athletes to a National Letter of Intent. The limit of 25 initial enrollees remains unchanged. In addition, an institution's subvarsity team (JV) can no longer compete against any team that includes prospective student athletes - (i.e., games with Hargrave and Fork Union are now prohibited).
2/3/2010 3:16p		HOKIES LAND SUPER PREP ALL AMERICAN New Orleans Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams was notified today that his youngest son, Chase, was named to the Super Prep All American Football Team. Chase Williams, a linebacker, has committed to Virginia Tech, where he is currently enrolled and attending classes. "We are proud of him," Gregg Williams said. "Let this be the start of good news to the Williams family during Super Bowl week!" Chase Williams, 6 feet 3 and 240 pounds, runs the 40 in 4.61 seconds and bench-pressed 225 pounds 25 times in the combine for college-bound players. During his senior season of high school, he had 173 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, 12 forced fumbles, 11 sacks and four interceptions. He finished his prep career with double-digit tackles in 27 straight games.
2/2/2010 1:03p		PUT IT ON THE CALENDAR The Hokies will report for fall practice on Thursday, August 5, 2010.
1/31/2010 4:16p		L-O-I SIGNING DAY - Wednesday, February 3rd ! Whew! Since returning from Virginia Tech’s win over Tennessee at the Chick-fil-A Bowl in Atlanta, the staff here at BeamerBall.com has been hard at work putting together the Recruiting Profiles that our Coaches Club members will enjoy this Wednesday. We think Virginia Tech fans will be highly impressed with what these new Hokies have already accomplished to this point, both on the field, and, in the classroom! We also strive to spotlight the “person” as well as the “player” in our interviews. Securing video highlights, pictures, signee interviews (just tracking these young men down is quite the undertaking), coaching staff comments and much more, can be compared to “herding cats.” But it is well worth the effort because we know how popular Signing Day is on BeamerBall.com and we’re glad to do it. We’re in the process of putting the finishing touches on each and every profile and we very much hope that you enjoy getting to know Virginia Tech’s Class of 2010 on Wednesday. Thank you for your continued support! BeamerBall.com
12/31/2009 3:07p		RYAN WILLIAMS “I’m having no fun! Just the way I like it!” Virginia Tech’s talented tailback, Ryan Williams, has been all business in his first bowl trip. Here’s what Williams told us about his week in Atlanta: “Straight focused. From the minute I arrived, I’ve been completely focused. I haven’t been out once. Not once. I haven’t been anywhere. All I’ve done is practice, go to my meetings, watch videotape, lift weights and then get ready to do it all over again. I’m not down here to party. I’m not down here to take in the sights. I’m down here for one thing, and that’s to try and win a football game and do the absolute best that I can do. It’s the way I have to do things. It’s just the type of person I am. If I don’t pour 100% of everything I have into it, then I’ll have regrets. I don’t want regrets. I don’t want to be distracted. It’s nothing different. This is my routine. This is how I approach each and every game week. I’m sticking with the way I operate.” BeamerBall.com: So, what has been the highlight of your week here at the Chick-fil-A Bowl? Ryan Williams: Ask me that question again after the game.
12/31/2009 2:55p		HOKIES EXPECTED TO START CRIS HILL The speedy Hill starts in place of ineligible Stephan Virgil TORRIAN GRAY - Secondary “My plan is to start Cris Hill (R-Soph, Richmond, VA). But, Jayron Hosley (True Freshman, Delray Beach, FL) will see plenty of playing time. I think I’m going to alternate those two every couple of series. So, I’ll start Cris, alternate Jayron in, see how that goes, how each responds, and go from there. I think that Cris is strong in his man coverage. That’s why we want to put him at boundary. He’ll see more man in that area. That allows Rock (Rashad Carmichael) to handle the field and he’ll be able to handle the adjustments there. Jayron is just a true freshman, but he’s shown the ability to make plays. He really breaks on the ball well. I trust Jayron, but you can’t forget that he’s young. So, if he does make a mistake, he needs to learn from it, fight through it and not let it happen again. I really love the way that both of these guys have practiced. They’ve really been competing. They’ve really pushed and supported one another. And I hope that between the two of them, I’ll be able to get a good game out of them. It's their time.”
12/31/2009 11:45a		SET YOUR WATCH Here’s a look at Tech’s Game Day itinerary: 12pm - 5pm - Meetings and Team meal 5:00pm - Depart for Georgia Dome 5:30pm - Arrive at Georgia Dome 6:30pm - Snappers, Holders, Kickers, Punters, KO - Punt Returners, QB’s, take field 6:47pm - Rest of dress squad takes the field 6:52pm - Team Break 6:53pm - Individual Groups 6:58pm - Pass Skeleton 7:04pm - Perfect Plays 7:09pm - Everyone In 7:32pm - Final Instructions 7:34pm - Take the Field 7:34pm - Coin Toss: Captains - Nekos Brown, Kam Chancellor, Cody Grimm & Ed Wang 7:37pm - Kickoff
12/30/2009 2:06p		IS JASON WORILDS PLAYING HIS FINAL GAME WITH THE HOKIES? Like many elite juniors across the country, Worilds wants a draft evaluation from the NFL This time last year, Kam Chancellor informed the Virginia Tech coaching staff that he wanted “to test the waters” by requesting a draft evaluation from the NFL. After receiving his feedback, Chancellor ultimately decided to return to the Hokies for his senior season. This bowl season, the Tech player who wants to know what the NFL thinks of him, is dynamic defensive end, Jason Worilds. We tracked down his position coach, Charley Wiles, for reaction: CHARLEY WILES - Defensive Line “The first thing that I want to make absolutely clear, is that I want what’s best for Jason Worlids. Period. He’s a fantastic young man who has been very good to our University, this football program and to me personally. Now, is his mind made up? I don’t think we have the answer to that and obviously Jason is a smart young man and he wants all the information he can get to make the decision that’s going to be best for him and his family. Jason is one of the top underclassmen in the country and this is going to happen with players of his caliber. It really is a good problem to have. It tells you that you’re recruiting the right type of young man and you’re helping them become better people and better players and that hopefully can open doors to the NFL for him. He has really enhanced our football program, he’s a terrific kid and I want to see good things happen for him. If it’s the right thing for him to do, I’m all for it. If he doesn’t hear the things he wants to hear, then we’ll work hard to help him have that monster senior season and we’ll be thrilled to have a player with his skill and leadership back on our football team. I’m very proud of Jason. I honestly think Jason can be a first or second round guy. That’s what I believe. Now, the question is, does that happen this April, or next April? And, that’s what Jason wants to find out. BeamerBall.com: If Jason likes what he hears from the NFL and decides to make himself eligible for the upcoming draft, that would mean that both of your starting defensive ends (Nekos Brown & Worilds) are moving on. So, what does that leave you? Charley Wiles: Well, you have to prepare for any and all situations. This is a business of turnover and transition. If Jason doesn’t come back, that leaves Steven Friday and Chris Drager. Then behind those two, I have some young guys in Isaiah Hamlette, Duan Perez-Means, J.R. Collins and James Gayle. Now, those kids have been getting a lot of work. They’re raw, but they have ability and they can run. They’re missing that playing experience. So, whether Jason stays or goes, it’s an extremely, let me repeat that, an extremely important winter and spring for that group. I need some guys to step up and bring it. And right now, that’s the group of guys I’m counting on.
12/30/2009 11:19a		ANY SECOND THOUGHTS FOR DAVID WILSON? Take a look at David Wilson’s rushing stats for the year: 12 games - 301 yards rushing & 3 TD’s. And, when you factor in that over half of that rushing total was accumulated in one game (Marshall, 165 yards rushing), it means that in the other 11 games Wilson played for the Hokies, he averaged 12 yards rushing per game. Thus, the ultimate question: Would Wilson, a true freshman, have been better served by redshirting in 2009? Good question. So, let’s ask the man himself! BeamerBall.com: Now that the regular season is over and done with, do you have second thoughts? Back in the summer you said you wanted to play right away. If you had it to do over again, would you have decided to redshirt? David Wilson: I don’t have any regrets. None. The way I look at it, is by playing this year, I’m much further down the road to becoming the type of tailback that I want to become. If I had ended up on the scout team, I don’t think I’d know the offense like I know it now. At the beginning, it was hard. I was trying to learn on the fly and that’s difficult. But now, I know the plays, I know what I’m doing, I know who I’m blocking and if I’m called upon, I think I can contribute. So, I don’t see this as a wasted year. Not at all. Plus, I always have that redshirt year available if I need it or if the coaches think I should use it. BeamerBall.com: Okay, let’s talk about that. Right now, Virginia Tech has some talented tailbacks coming back for 2010. Ryan Williams, Darren Evans, Josh Oglesby and yourself. So, are you saying that if the coaches ask you to redshirt and be ready to go in 2011, you’re good with that? David Wilson: Sure. But you just never know what’s going to happen, so, you have to be ready. What if one, or a couple of those guys get hurt in the spring or summer. Or, what if I get hurt. I’m just saying that having that redshirt available is a good thing. And, I think if we have to use it, we’ll use it to benefit everybody. Plus, if Ryan and Darren have big years next year, they’re most likely going to be able to jump to the NFL. That would mean that in 2011, I’d have a chance to win the starting job. I’m going to continue to battle for the starting job and try to be the best player I can be, but, I’m also going to take a realistic look at the situation. I just stay focused on trying to be the best I can be and let the chips fall where they may. BeamerBall.com: One of the tough things about playing as a true freshmen is that it can hurt you in the classroom. Adjusting to college academics is hard enough in itself for incoming freshmen, but add on a full sport and it can be too big of an adjustment and simply too demanding. How’d your first semester go grade wise? David Wilson: I know I can improve, but I’m off to a solid start. I’m right at a 3.0 grade point. It’s really all about time management. You just don’t have any time to waste. It’s football, then academics, right back to football and right back to academics. BeamerBall.com: I know you come from a tight family. How excited was everybody to get you home for Christmas for a few days? David Wilson: There’s no place like home. It was great to be home. That was my first time home since we started camp back in late July. It’s always great to be able to spend some quality time with the people you love, especially if you haven’t been home in a long time. BeamerBall.com: What are you most looking forward to in this bowl game? David Wilson: Seeing my brother (Ronald, who’s in the Navy). He’s coming all the way in from California to see my first bowl game and I hope I can do something positive in this game just for him.
12/30/2009 10:25a		2009 PERMANENT CAPTAINS At the end of each regular season, the Virginia Tech football team votes to select the “Permanent Captains.” This is an extremely high honor! The voting has concluded and the results are in. The Virginia Tech Captains for the 2009 seasons are: Nekos Brown Kam Chancellor Cody Grimm Ed Wang Congrats gentlemen!!!
12/30/2009 10:14a		FANS ROLL IN, TEAM ROLLS OUT We’re starting to see more and more orange and maroon here in Atlanta. Especially at the team hotel. As fans pour in to support the Hokies and begin their New Year’s celebrations, the Hokies demeanor turns more serious. Frank Beamer will move his team to an “undisclosed location” for the night (nothing new). Here’s a look at how Virginia Tech football will spend the day: 10am - Coaches Meeting 11am - Coach Beamer - Head Coaches Press Conference Lunch - Scholarship Luncheon “Chalk Talk” 3pm - Team Meeting & Individual meetings until 5pm 5pm - Meetings end. Team departs for Georgia Dome 6pm - Walk-thru at Georgia Dome ends 6:30pm- Team departs for Team Hotel #2 7pm - Dinner 7pm - Radio Show (Jim Weaver, Billy Hite) 7:30pm - Offense, Defense meetings until 9pm 9pm - Team Meeting 11pm - Lights out
12/29/2009 5:02p		SUPER STACK HEART ATTACK Jake Johnson has already made a big impression in Atlanta...at a nearby restaurant. Johnson ordered the sandwich that “nobody can finish” and finished it! “We saw it on T.V. on Man vs. Food on the Travel Channel,” says the Tech linebacker. “It was called the ‘Double Bypass.’ That’s what we were looking for, but, when we looked on the menu, they had something even bigger than that, the ‘Super Stack Heart Attack.’ It was a grilled cheese on the bottom, then a half pound sirloin burger with five pieces of bacon, four pieces of cheese and an egg. Then, another grilled cheese in the middle with another sirloin burger, bacon, cheese and egg. And, it was topped with another grilled cheese. They brought it out with about two pounds of fries and tater tots covered in nacho cheese. The waitress said she’s never seen anybody eat one. So, I put it all down in about 20 minutes. And then, just to make sure she remembered me, I went ahead and ordered a big piece of Reese’s Pie and hammered that as well. It was good. It cost about $30 bucks, but I didn’t leave hungry.” If Johnson looks a little slower than normal on Thursday night, you’ll know why! Jake Johnson and his "Super Stack Heart Attack"
12/29/2009 4:47p		NOW THERE’S A FAMILAR FACE Some former Virginia Tech athletes dropped by today’s practice at the Georgia Dome to say “hello.” Ken Brown (linebacker), Ken Oxendine (tailback), Jeff Bolton (quarterback) and Brad Clontz (pitcher) attended today’s practice. Bolton, who was a quarterback for Bill Dooley in the late 70's and early 80's, is currently the Owner-General Manager of Royal Lakes Golf and Country Club in Flowery Branch, Georgia. “Tell all the Hokies to stop by and tee it up,” says Bolton, “I’d love to see ‘em.” Also, Clontz was a big hit with the kids (young and old alike). They lined up to get a look at his World Championship ring from his days as a reliever with the Atlanta Braves. Ken Oxendine and Ken Brown Brad Clontz, Bud Foster, and Jeff Bolton
12/29/2009 4:26p		SENIORS SAY GOODBYE Following this afternoon’s practice at the Georgia Dome, Frank Beamer allowed each of his seniors to address the team. These farewell speeches range from emotional, touching, hilarious, quirky, thoughtful and they’re always honest. Here are a couple things that caught our attention: (We recorded these speeches and will put the highlights on BeamerVision) Cody Grimm: “I’d really like to think Coach (Mike) Gentry and the weight staff for giving me this body. The girls really appreciate it. My washboard abs and guns are a big hit with the ladies. So, thank you Coach Gentry in helping me improve that area of my life.” Nekos Brown: “I just love you guys and I’m going to miss every part of this (Brown had to wipe tears from his eyes).” Richard Graham (Part I): “Well, first, let me say something about our game. When I was home for Christmas, people just flat out told me that we didn’t have a chance against an SEC team. I really felt disrespected. But, they just said it to me like it was a fact. That really (upset) me off. So, I’m asking each and every one of you to dedicate yourself to winning this game. I didn’t say much back, because talk is cheap. I just want to go out and show everybody what we’re all about. I want you mad like I am and I want you to feel disrespected like I do and I want all of us to do something about it.” Mark Muncey: “Guys, I’m from southwest Virginia and I’m telling you all I hear about is Tennessee. I mean they literally just shove it down your throat. I don’t think you guys who aren’t from down there understand how bad it is. It’s unbearable. So I’m asking you to give it all you got and let’s get this thing done.” Sam Wheeler: “I just want to thank Coach Beamer and all the coaches for not giving up on me. I know I was a big pain in the (rear) after I hurt my knee. I sincerely apologize for that. Thanks for hanging in there with me. Thanks for not quitting on me even though it looked like I was quitting on myself.” Cam Martin: “Wow, it really goes by fast. When I came here, I was a boy and I thought I knew it all. I can really say that this program and the people in it, have helped me become a man. This program has prepared me for life and I’m grateful. I’m getting ready to play my final football game. Ever. And, whether you go on to play 15 years in the NFL, or, if this is your final game like me, sooner or later you’re going to have to jump into the real world. I know that because of my time in this program, I’m ready for the real world. Not only am I ready, but I’m excited about the next chapter in my life. All you younger guys, get that degree. Don’t waste the opportunity. I hope you all have long NFL careers, but in reality, in case your football doesn’t go beyond college, that degree will open doors for you that otherwise would never open.” Sergio Render: “It’s been a blast. Just great. I love all you coaches and all my teammates. I especially love my Karaoke TOTS Crew (Top of the Stairs). Country music, rock, whatever, you guys are the best and I’ll miss those nights. Thanks for caring about me. And finally, keep God in your life. Whatever it is you do, no matter how high or low you become, keep God in your life.” Kam Chancellor: “Coach Beamer, I just want to thank you for offering me a scholarship and believing in me when no one else did. I’ll never forget that. I’ll never forget you or this program.” Richard Graham (Part II): “So, let's prove everybody wrong and let’s win this game. That’s why I came to Virginia Tech, to prove people wrong. They told me I couldn’t play Division I football. But, I wanted to show them I could. I could have gone to Harvard or Princeton and probably would have been a lot better off in my life (at which time the rest of the team broke into laughter).” Frank Beamer then chimed in, “hey, hold on, that degree you got from Virginia Tech is pretty good, too!”
12/29/2009 3:54p		TYROD HANGS WITH SHAQ Late last night word spread through the team hotel that “Shaq” was in the house (O’Neal and the rest of the Cleveland Cavaliers play the Atlanta Hawks tonight). Tyrod Taylor proclaimed, “I gotta meet him.” And that’s just what he did. Tyrod says his plan was simple, and effective, “we found out what floor he was on and just hung out until the big fella stepped out.” BeamerBall.com: So how did you get to hang out with Shaq? Tyrod Taylor: Some of the guys on the team actually went looking for him. I didn’t want to go stalk the man or anything like that. But, they found him on the 46th floor. We were just hanging outside him room talking, hoping we’d get a chance to meet him. And, before you knew it, he threw open his door and welcomed us into his suite. I just think he’s a classy guy and I like what he’s all about. Getting to hang out with him, talk to him one on one, was a great experience. It really makes me have even a deeper appreciation for him. BeamerBall.com: Of course you know about Shaq, but does Shaq know about Tyrod Taylor and Virginia Tech? Tyrod Taylor: Well, it was clear that he knew about the Hokies, but I don’t think he had any clue who I was. We really were just hanging out and joking around. We really didn’t want to talk about football and he didn’t want to talk about basketball, so we just kind of shot the breeze really. I know Shaq is a big, big star. I know he has people coming at him all the time. But, he talked to us just like he was a normal guy. BeamerBall.com: Did you get his autograph? Tyrod Taylor: No, but I did get a picture with him. Some of the other guys took some video of him when we were in the elevator on the way down to the lobby. He was headed out and we had to get back to our rooms for curfew. BeamerBall.com: As far as you’re concerned, you really looked in control of the offense down the stretch. And, you’ve looked sharp in the bowl practices. Is it safe to say that you’ve hit your stride? Tyrod Taylor: I think so. I’m just having a lot of fun. I really wanted to get back to having fun playing football. Those first two years weren’t any fun. There’s a big learning curve at this level. You can’t just step out of high school, right into college and expect to play at a high level at quarterback. It’s next to impossible. There’s just too much going on. But, this year, we have a very good team, I really understand the offense now, and with that, it just seems like I’m seeing things a lot quicker and a lot better and I think it’s showing up in my play. I’m really proud of this team and I’m really looking forward to this bowl game. BeamerBall.com: You’ve been working with Logan Thomas all season. It really looks like his body is changing. He looks, stronger, bigger and even taller. Would you agree? And, what are your comments on his progression? Tyrod Taylor: He’s been working hard in the weight room. And, I keep telling him that this redshirt year will really benefit him. It’s hard for any competitor to have to sit and watch and not be a part of it, but, his time will come. I really think that he’s going to be a big time player. He has all the tools, plus, he’s very bright. And, I’m not just talking about at quarterback. I think he could play a lot of different positions because he’s so athletic. BeamerBall.com: You’re a heck of a basketball player and so is Logan Thomas. Have you faced him on the court yet? Tyrod Taylor: A couple times. He’s good on the court too. I always welcome a challenge on the basketball court because I love that game too. I look forward to seeing more of him on the hard wood, ha ha ha.
12/29/2009 8:52a		"WHITE OUT" 2010 BeamerBall.com has learned this morning that the 2010 "White Out" game in Lane Stadium will be against James Madison University, on September 11, 2010. Once again, special "Herma's Readers White Out" t-shirts will be sold for the game with all proceeds going toward the Herma's Readers literacy program. Here's an advance look at the white out shirts that are already on sale in Atlanta for the bowl game. 2010 White Out T Shirt Back 2010 White Out T-Shirt Front
12/29/2009 8:33a		FCA BREAKFAST Tony Dungy was the guest speaker at this morning’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes breakfast. Virginia Tech had about 60 players attend along with coaches and other members of the program. Coach Beamer presented Dungy with a Hokie #21 jersey. Dungy wore #21 when he broke into the NFL as a defensive back (safety) and special teamer with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Dungy also had stops with the San Francisco 49ers and the New York Giants. He moved into coaching and eventually became head coach of the Tampa Bay Bucs and Indianapolis Colts, winning a Super Bowl with Indy. He’s currently a commentator for NBC. Did you know? Tony Dungy is the only NFL player (Super Bowl era, since NFL-AFL merger) to intercept a pass, and also throw an interception in a NFL game. Dungy was the emergency quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers in a 1977 game against the Houston Oilers when both Terry Bradshaw and Mike Kruczek went down with injuries on October 30, 1977. Dungy was a standout quarterback at the University of Minnesota. Tony Dungy's VT Jersey
12/28/2009 11:24p		SHAQ, LIKES THE HOKIES? The Virginia Tech team hotel is abuzz tonight as there have been numerous Shaquille O'Neal sightings. "I rode up the elevator with him," says one excited Hokie fan. "He told me that the Hokies 'were cool.' I told him he was right! Ha ha ha..." O'Neal and the rest of the Cleveland Cavaliers are in town to play the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night.
12/28/2009 7:33p		COMMENTS FROM THE COACH BeamerBall.com: You haven’t had success recently versus the SEC Conference. You’re (0-4) with losses to Auburn, Georgia, LSU and Alabama. Does that factor into this game with Tennessee? Frank Beamer: Well, yes, we did lose those games, but, I can assure you a lot of other people lost to those teams because those teams were special. You go back and look at our loss to Auburn. We played ‘em tough and lost by 3 points. That team went 13-0 and many people thought had a strong case for a National Championship. Then, we did lose to Georgia in this bowl game (Chick-fil-A). But, we lose to LSU and they were National Champions that year and we lost to Alabama and they could be National Champions this year. But, I think this, we understand how good the football is in the SEC and it’s a challenge to our program to play well and find a way to get a win over a team in that conference. BeamerBall.com: You grew up almost right smack in the middle between Blacksburg and Knoxville. You should have a unique perspective on just how big this game is in southwestern Virginia. Frank Beamer: Oh I promise you, I’ve been hearing from a lot of fans. They know it’s important and we know it’s important. I knew a lot about Tennessee early in my life. I actually had an uncle who taught at Tennessee. Back then, they had a better program than we did at Virginia Tech, but I’d like to think that we’ve made up a lot of ground as far as that’s concerned. Our players know that we’re going to have our hands full and our approach is exactly what I think it’s going to be, and, that’s, that we’re going to have to scratch and claw for every inch. That’s the type of game we’re getting ready for. Four quarters, right down to the wire. I know this, Tennessee is well respected. And, winning a game like this can only help put your program on the map. BeamerBall.com: The last time that you played Tennessee was in the 1994 bowl game. That’s been a long time ago. But, despite the fact that you rarely play, this game really feels like a rivalry game. Why is that? Frank Beamer: Well, the schools really aren’t that far apart. And, it is a bit of a border war and our fan bases overlap. There fans are proud of what they’ve done and what they’re doing and I think our fans are proud of what we’ve done and what we’re doing. So, you have fans on both sides that know their football, are proud of their football and very much want to win this game. This is just one of those games that doesn’t come around that often, but means a lot to a lot of people. And this Tennessee team is talented. You look at their offensive line and they have four seniors. You look at that tailback and he’s a load. That defense is good. I don’t have to tell you guys that. You know the tradition of Tennessee football. You know how much pride they have and what they put into it. We’re going to have our hands full. You saw what they did against Florida and Alabama. So, if you don’t trust what I’m telling you, just turn on the tape and watch for yourself. BeamerBall.com: You show Tennessee great respect, but, don’t you think that you’re program has arrived. Don’t you think Virginia Tech football is at the same level as Tennessee? Frank Beamer: Well, I hope people respect us. We try to do things the right way. It’s important to us. But, in this business, nobody’s interested in what you did last year. Or what you did 10 years ago. This is a “what have you done for me lately” deal. This business is all about “right now.” That’s just the way it goes. And what that means, is you can never get complacent. I hope people talk about Virginia Tech in the same breath as Tennessee because I would take that as a very big compliment. BeamerBall.com: Urban Meyer is having health issues down at Florida and it’s obvious that he’s very concerned. You had some heart issues in the past. Do you have a feel for what he’s going through, and, do you have any advice? Frank Beamer: Well, you can’t take your health for granted. This job requires very long hours and that’s hard enough as it is. Then, you throw a lot of stress in on top of those very long hours and it can really take a toll on your body. Yes, I had heart issues and you really have to pay attention to it, listen to your doctors, make sure you’re getting your exercise, watch your diet and try to find ways to deal with and eliminate the stress. Different people handle stress in different ways. For me, I’m lucky. Do I feel the stress? Sure. Do the long hours take there toll? Of course. But, I have a great, supportive wife who really goes out of her way to help alieviate stress, rather than add to it. I’m very grateful for her and for that. I also have great family support and great support from close friends. Then, I have a coaching staff that I really trust and can really rely on. When you have a group like that, when you hit those pot holes, and you know you’re going to hit em, they can really help reduce the damage and the impact. I’ve been thinking about Urban a lot. He’s a bright guy and I’m confident that he’ll do what’s best for his family and for himself. I think he’s a classy guy who cares about his kids and I applaud that. BeamerBall.com: You’re keeping a close eye on Jayron Hosley and Cris Hill. They only have one start between them and one of them will have to start in place of Stephan Virgil. Unnerving? Frank Beamer: Anytime a guy gets in there for really his first time, that concerns you. But, don’t forget that we were in pretty much the same boat last year. We had Jaymes Brooks stepping in for Nick Marshman. And, Blake Warren went down at linebacker and Barquell Rivers jumped in there. And both of those guys did a good job. I can think of others. Brandon Frye stepped in for Jimmy Martin. Brandon Flowers for Jimmy Williams. So, we’ve been down this road before. And, that’s why you practice hard and that’s why you keep yourself ready. You know the saying, “you’re always just a snap away.” I’ll tell those guys that it’s their time to step up. Jayron Hosley was feeling bad yesterday and didn’t practice the whole time. But, I see a little more pep in his step today. We’ll see how it goes. I’m confident in those guys and I want to make sure that they’re confident in themselves.
12/28/2009 6:48p		HOKIES PRACTICE IN THE DOME December 28, 2009 Here’s the latest from Atlanta: The Hokies held today’s normal “Wednesday” practice (Monday to all of us), inside the Georgia Dome. The team wore helmets, shoulder pads and sweats. No full contact this afternoon. The only contact that was allowed was from the waist up. “It’s more mental,” says Bud Foster. “We’re trying to put in a lot of the defenses that we plan to use against Tennessee and we just needed to make sure everybody was in the right place at the right time doing the right thing. I thought our guys were sharp. I thought they made the right checks and adjustments. We still have a couple things that we can clean up and we’ll address those in our meetings and in tomorrow’s practice.” Head Trainer Mike Goforth reports that “I really don’t have any worries right now. I certainly don’t want to jynx us, but I think we’re a healthy football team. Of course you’re always going to have this and that nagging at you, but, as far being really concerned about any particular player, I’m not.” Cris Hill and Jayron Hosley are battling this week to see who’ll get the start in place of Stephan Virgil in Tech’s secondary. Hosley is only a true freshman, but he showed flashes during today’s passing drills. On one play, Hosley broke beautifully on the football for an interception. But, on another, Hosley had another shot at an interception deep down the right sideline. He went up for the football to grab it at its’ highest point, had his body in perfect position shielding the receiver, only to have the pass go right through his hands. That drew a loud groan from his defensive teammates. Following the missed interception, Hosley immediately dropped and submitted 15 pushups. “We’re watching these guys,” says Bud Foster. “We’ll go back and look at the tape of today’s workout and we’ll see where we are. I can promised you that Cris Hill and Jayron Hosley are a couple of young guys who have a ton of talent. We know they’re going to have a lot thrown at them and we need to see who’s ready to handle it.” Frank Beamer is famous for his competitiveness. And, competing is competing, even if you’re going against a 7 year old. Luke Goforth (Mike’s youngest son) went bumper to bumper with Coach Beamer on the simulated driving game in the players lounge. (Beamer was “white knuckling” the wheel, trying to slam the younger Goforth into the wall in turn four). Beamer is a dedicated Nascar fan and takes his racin’ seriously. “Well, he and the others challenged me,” says Beamer, “and I’m not going to say they were talking trash, but they were pretty aggressive. And, don’t underestimate these kids and these video games. Us old guys are at a disadvantage, I promise you that. I ran as hard as I could, and just got him at the end. I think I like racing better this way. The last time I raced, I had to squeeze into that drivers suit and crawl through the window to get in the car. I think my “crawling” days have long since past.” After Goforth, Craig Weaver (Jim’s son) saddled up beside the head coach. The racing was intense. A lot of bumping and grinding. And, Weaver was first to the finish line. While Weaver celebrated wildly, Beamer proclaimed with a stare while pointing at Weaver, “okay, okay, you got me, but I have to go to my staff meeting, then do some media but then I want a rematch!” Weaver never slowed down long enough to hear the request for a rematch. He circled the room screaming, “I beat Coach Beamer, I beat Coach Beamer!” Did you check out the back of Ed Wang's helmet in our pictures? You'll notice the orange mortarboard sticker on the back of his lid. All 16 seniors who have already graduated from Virginia Tech will be sporting those on their helmets in the bowl game. Thanks for upholding the "student" part of student-athlete!
12/26/2009 4:26p		CHICK-FIL-A BOWL UPDATE December 26th CHICK-FIL-A-NUGGETS All of the Virginia Tech players arrived in Atlanta without incident. The Hokies were required to report to the team hotel no later than 8pm Christmas night. "Well," begins Frank Beamer, "to be honest with you, I was very concerned about all of those players making it in safely. The forecast called for sleet and icy rain, and all of our players were coming in by car, so, I kind of crossed my fingers and hoped for the best." For the rest of us, it's Saturday, but for the Hokies, it's their "normal Monday." That means the players attended their normal special teams meetings, position meetings and team meeting, before heading to practice. The Hokies worked out from 3pm to 5pm at the Atlanta Falcons practice facility. The team outing tonight is at Dave & Buster's. The Falcons facility is a 45-minute drive from Tech's team hotel. "Yeah, it's a good distance out and back," say Beamer, "but we hope it's worth the effort. We want our players to experience the NFL practice facilities. Also, the surface is the same as the one we'll be playing on in the Georgia Dome, so, the more time we can get on the surface the better. Plus, it takes the weather out of the equation. Since our game is played indoors, there's no problem with us spending all of our practice time inside as well." Virginia Tech will practice at Flowery Branch (Falcons practice facility) today and tomorrow. Then, the Hokies will hold their Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday workouts at the Georgia Dome. QUESTIONS FOR THE COACH BeamerBall.com: We know that you're watching Cris Hill, Eddie Whitley and Jayron Hosely closely this week to determine who gets the start in the absence of Stephan Virgil. What are your comments on Virgil? And, does this also impact your special teams? Frank Beamer: The first thing that I want to say is that Virgil is a good young man. Having said that, I'm very disappointed that he didn't take care of business in the classroom. It hurts Stephan and it hurts this football team. I'd like to think that he'll have a bright future in the NFL and I know that he'll turn his attention toward that now that his college football is over. But, I also want to make sure that he finishes on the academic side. He's close and not only can he get it done, but he should get it done. As far as special teams, Virgil was a part of our field goal block, and, also got some time on Pride & Joy. I really don't think it hurts us that much on special teams, because we didn't use him that much there. But, he was a valuable part of our secondary and I hope our younger guys will take advantage of their opportunity and make a name for themselves. I'll be sure to tell them about Jimmy Williams. You'll remember a young man came in for him in a bowl game, and made a name for himself. That was Brandon Flowers. And, we all know how that turned out. Again, let me say that I'm proud of the person Virgil is, I'm just disappointed that he won't be with us for this big game with Tennessee. BeamerBall.com: Speaking of Tennessee, any comments on the Vols? Frank Beamer: The more I watch them on tape, the more impressed I am with them. We pride ourselves on being a tough minded program. Well, I can tell you that they're tough minded as well. Plus, we really have a lot to play for. We really want to get that 10th win. It would be our 6th consecutive season of winning 10 or more and that would put us in some very rare company. Also, personally, we've never won back to back bowl games at Virginia Tech. I'd like to put an end to that. And, I really think if we can find a way to win this game, that would leave us ranked in the Top 10 when it's all said and done. That would not only set the tone for this season, but it would also launch us into our recruiting, winter workouts and right into the spring. So, we have a lot to play for and we're making sure that our players know it. BeamerBall.com: I know how big your are about "family." Did you get a chance to spend some quality time with your kids and grandchild? Frank Beamer: Casey (daughter) was able to come home to Blacksburg for Christmas. That was great. But, this is the year that Shane and his wife and daughter go to her home in Mississippi for Christmas. They were with us last year, but, this year, they went to her parents. Shane is planning on coming to our game on New Year's Eve, then Cheryl and I are going to there game (UConn vs. South Carolina - Jan 2nd, Birmingham, AL).
12/15/2009 2:38p		ALL AMERICA HONORS: Ryan Williams - Sporting News, Third Team All America. Sports Illustrated, Honorable Mention All America. "It's just a blessing to receive an honor like this with the rest of the elite players in the nation. I just want to thank the whole team for making this whole experience possible for me." Cody Grimm - Associated Press, Third Team All America. Sports Illustrated, Honorable Mention All America. "I'm just really honored to be looked at that highly by members of the media. Coming in here as a walk-on and finishing things off by being named an All-American is a big accomplishment and I'm just really happy and honored for the recognition."
12/14/2009 5:55p		BEAMER SAYS BUD FOSTER IS STAYING WITH THE HOKIES Frank Beamer informed the team following this evening's practice, that although Bud Foster has been contacted by other schools concerning potential employment, Foster expressed to Coach Beamer that he will remain at Virginia Tech.
12/12/2009 10:20a		Scout Team Pre-Bowl Testing Numbers Front Squat Josh Call - 450 Jim Brown - 450 Telvion Clark - 430 Josh Eadie - 410 Joe Jones - 405 Jeff Wardach - 405 Bench Press Josh Call - 430 Jim Brown - 410 Dwight Tucker - 410 Telvion Clark - 390 Andrew Miller - 390 Power Clean Andrew Miller - 346 Joey Phillips - 336 Josh Call - 334 Josh Eadie - 326 Antone Exum - 316 Dwight Tucker - 316 Push Jerk Andrew Miller - 360 Jim Brown - 351 Joey Phillips - 320 Tim Richardson - 320 Josh Call - 320 Dwight Tucker - 320 Jeff Wardach - 320 Vertical Nubian Peak - 38.5" Joe Jones - 37" Jeff Wardach - 36" Josh Eadie - 36" James Hopper - 36"
12/8/2009 12:18p		VT IN WHITE JERSEYS AT THE GEORGIA DOME The Hokies will be the "visiting" team for their bowl game New Year's Eve in Atlanta versus Tennessee. Virginia Tech will wear white jerseys, maroon pants and maroon helmets. HAVE YOU HAD A FIVE GUYS BURGER LATELY? GET ONE!
12/5/2009 9:59a		WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR WILLIE PILE? Virginia Tech's John Ballein, Assistant AD-Football Operations, received this email from former Hokie standout, Willie Pile. We found it interesting and thought you would as well: Good afternoon Coach Ballein. First, congratulations to you and the team for finishing strong and putting yourselves in position for another 10 win season. I know it didn't go exactly as you planned, but it's still a great year and a big goal is still within reach. I'm writing because I have a few questions I hope you can answer. I'm currently in my 3rd year in the CFL but I've also begun taking courses towards a Masters in Sports Management with a concentration in Athletic Administration. The plan is to have your job! Well, not specifically the one you hold at VT, but a position similar to yours at a Collegiate institution, with a long range goal of becoming an Athletic Director. I'm 3 classes deep (out of 12) into the program and before I go any further, I was hoping you would provide some transparency into that side of college athletics. 3 things: What is a typical day like for you, including during this bowl season and recruiting contact period merging together? What do you like most about your job? What part of the job presents the most challenges? There's no rush to reply, I just figured if you had some down time to check e-mails that you could get back to me. I must say that part of the reason I'm choosing this career path is due to the relationship you held and still hold, with the VT staff, administration and most importantly, the current and former players. I've been contacted to be on the administration side within the NFL ranks but that's not for me at this point in my life. I'd coach in college if I had to in order to get a foot in the door, but I feel I'd have a much greater impact on the administration side in college and could provide valuable resources and insights to the players. So, thanks for taking the time to read this e-mail and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Please tell all the coaches and staff I said "hello" and that we'll be cheering for you guys in your bowl game. God bless, Willie P.
12/2/2009 1:12p		SENIOR BOWL INVITE: Ed Wang has received an official invitation to participate in the 61st Annual Senior Bowl, to be played in Mobile, Alabama, on January 30, 2010.
12/2/2009 9:56a		VT REMAINS UNDER CONSIDERATION FOR BCS BERTH Sixteen teams remain under consideration to play in one of the five Bowl Championship Series (BCS) games. One other team, Big Ten champion Ohio State, has already earned an automatic berth to the BCS. The teams were identified during a teleconference among the 11 Football Bowl Subdivision conference commissioners, the Notre Dame athletics director, and representatives from the FedEx Orange Bowl, Allstate Sugar Bowl, Tostitos Fiesta Bowl and the Rose Bowl Game presented by Citi, as well as Fox and ABC. The No. 1 and No. 2 teams in the final BCS standings will meet in the Citi BCS National Championship Game January 7 in Pasadena, Calif. The champions of the Atlantic Coast, Big East, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-10 and Southeastern Conferences automatically qualify for a BCS game. In addition, four at-large berths are available. The highest-ranked conference champion from among Conference USA, the Mid-American, Mountain West, Sun Belt and Western Athletic Conferences earns a guaranteed berth in one of the BCS games if that champion is ranked No. 12 or better in the final BCS standings or is ranked in the top 16 of the final BCS standings and its ranking is higher than that of a champion of a conference that has an annual automatic berth. No conference may place more than two teams in the BCS games, unless the conference has two teams in the National Championship Game, and neither team is its champion. Other than as set forth above, to be eligible for at-large selection by a bowl, a team must have nine regular-season victories and must be ranked in the top 14 of the final BCS standings, which will be compiled on December 6. The BCS bowl pairings will be announced at 8 p.m. Eastern time that day, on Fox television. The following is a list of teams still contending for their conferences’ championships: ACC: Clemson, Georgia Tech Big East: Cincinnati, Pittsburgh Big 12: Nebraska, Texas Pac-10: Oregon, Oregon State SEC: Alabama, Florida In addition to those 10 teams and Ohio State, the pool of teams remaining under consideration also includes (in alphabetical order): Boise State Brigham Young Iowa Penn State Texas Christian Virginia Tech Following is the schedule of the BCS games: January 1 – Rose Bowl Presented by Citi (ABC) January 1 – AllState Sugar Bowl (Fox) January 4 – Tostitos Fiesta Bowl (Fox) January 5 – FedEx Orange Bowl (Fox) January 7 – Citi BCS National Championship Game (ABC)
12/1/2009 1:24p		VT's RYAN WILLIAMS: ACC ROOKIE OF THE YEAR Record-setting Virginia Tech running back Ryan Williams is the Atlantic Coast Conference’s Rookie of the Year. Williams was chosen Tuesday as the league’s top newcomer following a vote of the Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association. He received 34 votes from 40 voting members to edge out Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly, who had 29. Separate votes were held for the Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year awards, and those vote counts were combined to determine the overall award winner. Williams worked his way into the starting lineup by Week 1, and wound up tying the ACC season record with 19 rushing touchdowns. His 20 overall TDs set the league's scoring record for freshmen. Williams has rushed for 1,538 yards this year, shattering the ACC’s freshman rushing record of 1,265 yards set last year by his teammate Darren Evens, who is sitting out 2009 with a knee injury suffered in pre-season practice. It is also the 4th-best single-season rushing total in ACC history. 2009 ACC Rookie of the Year Results as voted on the by Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association (ACSMA) Rookie of the Year Ryan Williams, rb, Virginia Tech (34) Luke Kuechly, lb, Boston College (29) Greg Reid, cb, Florida State (4) Kyle Parker, qb, Clemson (4) Steve Greer, lb, Virginia (3) Conner Vernon, wr, Duke (2) Kenny Okoro, cb, Wake Forest (2) Kevin Reddick, lb, North Carolina (1) Jacobbi McDaniel, dt, Florida State (1) Offensive Rookie of the Year Ryan Williams, rb, Virginia Tech (34) Kyle Parker, qb, Clemson (4) Conner Vernon, wr, Duke (2)
11/30/2009 3:58p		2009 ALL ACC FIRST TEAM Offense RB-Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech K-Matt Waldron, Virginia Tech FIRST TEAM Defense LB-Cody Grimm, Virginia Tech P - Brent Bowden, Virginia Tech SECOND TEAM Offense TE-Greg Boone, Virginia Tech OT-Ed Wang, Virginia Tech OG-Sergio Render, Virginia Tech SECOND TEAM Defense DE-Jason Worilds, Virginia Tech S-Kam Chancellor, Virginia Tech
11/30/2009 2:05p		ACC HONORS ROOKIE – Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech, RB, Fr. 5-9, 205, Manassas, Va. (Stonewall Jackson) For the seventh time this season, Virginia Tech freshman running back Ryan Williams had the top performance by a freshman with a season-high 183 rushing yards on 24 carries for a 7.6 yards per rush average in a 42-13 win at Virginia. Williams scored four touchdowns in the game for the second straight week to break the ACC freshman record for touchdowns with scoring runs of five, 20, four, and two yards and became just the second Hokie in school history to accomplish the feat. Williams’ 19 rushing touchdowns this season are tied for the most in a single season in ACC history and his 1,538 rushing yards leave him 110 yards away from breaking the school single-season record, and rank as the fourth most in ACC history.
11/27/2009 1:23p		THANKSGIVING THOUGHTS More Starters and Contributors: (Collin Carroll, Xavier Boyce, Brent Bowden, Jarrett Boykin, Danny Coale, Marcus Davis, Lyndell Gibson, Jayron Hosley, Kenny Jefferson, Zach Luckett, Cam Martin, Jusin Myer, Josh Oglesby, Dorian Porch, Matt Reidy, Stephan Virgil, Matt Waldron and David Wilson) I’m most THANKFUL for... Carroll: Family. Boyce: God blessing me and putting me where I am today. Bowden: All of my blessings. Boykin: For each and every day. Coale : Family. Davis : My family. Gibson: My family and blessings. Hosley : Family. Jefferson : Family. Luckett : My family and Coach Beamer giving me a second chance. Martin: My family. Myer: Family. Oglesby: My family and being a part of this team. Porch: The opportunities I’ve had and all of the positive people in my life. Reidy : Call of Duty. Virgil: My family. Waldron: My health. Wilson : Being blessed in so many ways and my family. My three favorite dishes at Thanksgiving are... Carroll: Turkey , sweet potatoes and apple pie. Boyce: Mac & cheese, stuffing and ham. Bowden: Sweet potato casserole, apple pie and mashed potatoes. Boykin: Broccoli and cheese casserole, country ham and stuffing. Coale : stuffing, turkey and mashed potatoes. Davis : Mac & cheese, turkey and stuffing. Gibson: Chitterlings, mac & cheese and ribs. Hosley : Ham, mac & cheese, and stuffing. Jefferson : Ham, greens and mac & cheese. Luckett : Ham, baked mac & cheese with bacon and collard greens. Martin: Mac & cheese, rolls, turkey & gravy. Myer: Turkey , mashed potatoes and pie. Oglesby: Banana pudding, Red Velvet cake and chicken. Porch: Chitterlings, collards and real mac & cheese. Reidy : Mom’s mashed potatoes, sister’s Dirt Cake and turkey. Virgil: Broccoli cornbread, mac & cheese, Broccoli-rice-cheese casserole. Waldron: Squash, stuffing and turkey. Wilson : Stuffing, macaroni and turkey. Which teammate would your family want you to bring home for Thanksgiving? Why? Carroll: Tyrod. My brother digs him. Boyce: Not sure. Bowden: Kenny Lewis. He’s an awesome guy. Boykin: Eddie Whitley. My family really likes him. Coale : Andrew Lanier. He loves to eat. Davis : Any of my 7-5-7 teammates. Gibson: Joe Jones. Good guy. Hosley : They’re all welcome. Jefferson : Anybody who needs a place to go. Luckett : Jason Worilds or Ben Barber.... Jersey Boys. Martin: Andre Smith or John Graves. Classy guys. Myer: Ryan Williams. My little brother is his biggest fan. Oglesby: Pat Terry. He’s hilarious. Porch: Anybody who’s really hungry because there’s too much food. Reidy : Cody Grimm. Because he knows how to party and would “rock” the house. Virgil: Sergio. He’d blend in well with the rest of my family. Waldron: Matt Baldwin. He likes to eat and hunt. Wilson : Anybody who wants to come to Danville is welcome. After practice on Thanksgiving Day, I plan to... Carroll: Eat. Boyce: Get ready for UVA. Bowden: Watch a movie with my guitar in hand. Boykin: Relas and eat. Eat and relax. Coale : Hopefully run home for a few hours. Davis : Chill. Gibson: Chill and play the game. Hosley : Hang with my teammates. Jefferson : Eat dinner with my family here in Blacksburg . Luckett : Eat and watch football. Martin: Go home. Myer: Eat. Oglesby: Not sure. Porch: Eat and sleep. Reidy : Eat at 7-11 because nothing else is open. Then play Call of Duty all night. Virgil: Eat with my family. Waldron: Watch football. Wilson : Eat. Who is the “Biggest Turkey ” on the team? Why? Carroll: Drager. He really kind of looks like a turkey. Boyce: Ha ha...I know, but I’m not saying. Bowden: Beau Warren . You just have to know him. Boykin: Courtney Prince. Coale : Beau Warren . Davis : Taco. Gibson: Taco. Hosley : DJ Coles. Jefferson : Taco. Luckett : Me....Gobble, gobble! Martin: Taco. Myer: Greg Boone. He runs the “Wild Turkey.” Oglesby: Taco. Because he’ll eat the most turkey. Porch: Courtney Prince. He’s bustin’ it wide like a stuffed turkey on Thanksgiving. Reidy : Beau Warren . Virgil: Hokie Bird. Waldron: Greg Boone. Wilson : No turkeys on this team!
11/27/2009 9:32a		THANKSGIVING THOUGHTS Offensive, Defensive Linemen & Tight Ends (Kwamaine Battle, Greg Boone, Jaymes Brooks, Randall Dunn, Steven Friday, Richard Graham, John Graves, Isaiah Hamlette, Greg Nosal , Vinston Painter, Sergio Render, Andre Smith, Rob Stanton, Demetrius Taylor, Michael Via, Ed Wang, Beau Warren & Sam Wheeler) I’m most THANKFUL for... Battle : My family. Boone: Family and friends. Brooks: Life. Dunn: My mother. Friday: Everything. Graham: Lanier’s extra body parts. Graves : Family and friends. Hamlette: Family. Nosal : Call of Duty. Painter: My family. Render: My family. Smith: My family and friends. The opportunity I have here at VT. C-O-D and MW2. Stanton : Family and C-O-D. Taylor : Family. Via: Friends. Wang: My family. Warren : Dick Graham. Wheeler: Family and friends. My three favorite dishes at Thanksgiving are... Battle : Ham, collards and mac & cheese. Boone: Turkey , mashed potatoes and ham. Brooks: Turkey , greens and macaroni. Dunn: Turkey , yams and apple pie. Friday: Candy yams, ham and dressing. Graham: Scalloped oysters, sweet potato casserole and deep friend turkey. Graves : Turkey , ham and dessert. Hamlette: Candy yams, mac & cheese and stuffing. Nosal : Turkey , mashed potatoes and apple pie. Painter: Stuffing, sweet potato pie and turkey. Render: Custard pie, dressing and chitterlings. Smith: Rolls, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie. Stanton : Turkey , spinach casserole and deviled eggs. Taylor : Turkey , mac & cheese and mashed potatoes. Via: Turkey , gravy and stuffing. Wang: Pumpkin pie, turkey and sweet potato pie. Warren : Mashed potatoes, deep fried ice cream and my brother’s plate that I stole. Wheeler: Mac & cheese, turkey and sweet potato pie. Which teammate would your family want you to bring home for Thanksgiving? Why? Battle : Darren Evans. He’s a great guy to be around. Boone: None. When I go home, it’s all about ME! Brooks: They’d like to have any of these guys. Dunn: Marcus and Vince. Friday: Greg Boone. They think he’s hilarious. Graham: Davon Morgan. He would “dazzle” them. Graves : Jason Worilds . They respect him as a person. Hamlette: Ju-Ju Clayton or Tyrod Taylor. Nosal : Probably Ed Wang. They get a kick out of him. Painter: Whoever would give me a ride home. Render: Anybody that would go hunting with us. Smith: They’d welcome any of them. Stanton : Andre Smith. My mom thinks he’s sweet and nice. Taylor : Ed Wang. They really like him. Via: Collin Carroll and Justin Meyers. Good dudes. Wang: Andre Smith. Respectful guy. Warren : Nobody. With all the big guys at our house, there’s barely enough food as it is. Wheeler: Ed Wang. He’s smart and would be interesting around the dinner table. After practice on Thanksgiving Day, I plan to... Battle : Go to the apartment and eat a great home cooked meal. Boone: Chill. Brooks: Sit around and wish I was at home. Dunn: Leave. Friday: Answer the call....C-O-D. Graham: Hopefully go to somebody’s house and eat. Graves : Play video games. Hamlette: Go home! Nosal : Hit the buffet at Ryan’s then C-O-D. Painter: Chill in my apartment. Render: Go eat with family and friends. Smith: C-O-D!!! Stanton : Eat at Sheetz with Drager . Just like last year. Now that’s a tradition! Taylor : Eat, sleep, PS3. Via: Eat with the family. Wang: C-O-D deep into the night. Warren : Eat dinner at Ryan’s. Wheeler: Relax and play XBox . Who is the “Biggest Turkey ” on the team? Why? Battle : Courtney Prince. He’s nice and fat. Boone: Taco ( Cordarrow Thompson). Brooks: Taco. Dunn: Ju-Ju . He’s got a turkey head. Friday: Taco. Graham: Allen “Thumper” Stevens. Graves : Taco. Hamlette: Taco. That’s pretty obvious. Nosal : Beau Warren . He even has a turkey neck. Painter: Taco. Render: Painter. He walks like a turkey. Smith: Tyler Barfield. Stanton : Cody Grimm. He is the Bird-Man. Taylor : Taco. Via: Taco. Wang: Barfield. Warren : Painter. He is one LARGE human. Wheeler: Taco. Thanksgiving is his favorite day of the year.
11/26/2009 10:36a		Virginia Tech senior Stephan Virgil has been invited to play in the 85th East-West Shrine Game in Orlando on January 23, 2010. Marty Schottenheimer and Romeo Crennel will serve as head coaches for the game.
11/25/2009 2:32p		Jake Johnson 1. Family and friends 2. Stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy 3. George George, so everyone can laugh at his name. 4. Eat my moms great food. 5. Tyler Barfield
11/25/2009 1:37p		THANKSGIVING THOUGHTS (Blake DeChristopher, Chris Drager, Tariq Edwards, Tony Gregory, Cody Grimm, Andrew Lanier, Barquell Rivers , Tyrod Taylor and Alonzo Tweedy) I’m most THANKFUL for... DeChristopher: My family, and the ability to get HUGE in the Iron Palace. Drager: Protein and barbells. Edwards: My family. Gregory: Being alive, my mom, my family, my teammates and this team. Grimm: Family and friends. Lanier: My family. Rivers: This opportunity to play football and go to school at Virginia Tech. Taylor: My family. Tweedy: My family. And, just waking up to another beautiful day in Blacksburg. My three favorite dishes at Thanksgiving are... DeChristopher: Ham, Texas toast and Creatine. Drager: Lasagna, deviled eggs and turkey. Edwards: Rolls, pie, mac & cheese... anything but pork. Gregory: Sweet potato pie custard, mac & cheese, and steak. Grimm: Turkey , pumpkin pie & stuffing. Lanier: Sweet potato casserole, ham and green beans. Rivers: Chicken casserole, collard greens and strawberry cheesecake. Taylor: Turkey with gravy, mac & cheese, and stuffing. Tweedy: Turkey with gravy, mac & cheese, and cornbread. Which teammate would your family want you to bring home for Thanksgiving? Why? DeChristopher: Ed Wang. Even though his “swag” is low, he’s still an interesting guy. Drager: Nobody. Because none of them are from the “Southside.” Edwards: James Hopper or Eddie Whitley because they’re cool. But, probably Tyrod (Taylor). After eating all that food, you want someone who’s accurate throwing the football in the back yard so you don’t have to chase it a lot. Gregory: Lyndell Gibson. Grimm: My family would be happy to host any of my teammates. Lanier: Dyrell Roberts. So they could get some of that “swag.” Rivers: Greg Boone. Because they want to meet him. Taylor : They’d welcome any of them. Tweedy: Ju-Ju (Clayton), because they’ve know him since we were little. After practice on Thanksgiving Day, I plan to... DeChristopher: Eat with the family that my girlfriend babysits for. Drager: Eat at Sheetz with Rob Staunton, just like last year. What a great Thanksgiving that was. Edwards: Hopefully go home and eat. Gregory: Eat, eat and eat some more! Joe’s mom is cooking! YEEESSSS! Grimm: Play “Call of Duty” with my 5-0-5 roommates! Lanier: Go to dinner with my girlfriend at her parents. Rivers: Go somewhere and eat. Taylor : Find somebody who’ll let me come and eat at their house. Tweedy: Eat, chill and play the Wii. Who is the “Biggest Turkey ” on the team? Why? DeChristopher: Jaymes Brooks. No explanation needed. Drager: Dick Graham. Because he has a pet snail. Edwards: Joe Jones. He’s a goofball. Gregory: Greg Boone. He’s built like a turkey and he sounds like one too. Grimm: Beau Warren . He just makes me laugh. Lanier: "Sloppy T." Tyler Barfield. Rivers: Courtney Prince. He’s always talking about food. Taylor : Taco (Cordarrow Thompson). He’s built like a turkey...ha ha. Tweedy: Courtney Prince.
11/23/2009 2:05p		T.V. UPDATE: The Atlantic Coast Conference announced that ESPN/ABC has made the following change in the networks for the Virginia Tech at Virginia and Miami at South Florida football games on Nov. 28. Virginia Tech at Virginia will now be seen on ABC regionally, at a minimum in Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, most of Georgia and the District of Columbia. The game will also be shown to the rest of the country on ESPN. Miami at South Florida will appear on ESPN in the areas where Virginia Tech at Virginia will be televised on ABC, and will be shown on ABC in its normal regional window. Both game times remain at 3:30 p.m.
11/23/2009 2:02p		ACC FOOTBALL HONORS: OFFENSIVE LINEMEN – Sergio Render, Virginia Tech, G, Sr., 6-3, 313, Newnan, Ga. (Newnan) Virginia Tech senior guard Sergio Render graded out at 82 percent and recorded a season-high 10 knockdown blocks in 16th-ranked Virginia Tech’s 38-10 win over visiting NC State. Render helped the Hokie offensive line lead the way for a Virginia Tech offense that piled up 397 yards of total offense, including 200 yards on the ground and 100-yard rusher Ryan Williams (120). DEFENSIVE BACK – Cody Grimm, Virginia Tech, OLB, Sr., 5-11, 202, Fairfax, Va. (Oakton) Virginia Tech senior outside linebacker Cody Grimm’s third Defensive Back of the Week honor came after he set an ACC single-season record and tied a Football Bowl Subdivision single-game record with three forced fumbles—all of which came in NC State’s first four plays—in the Hokies’ win over the Wolfpack. Grimm helped the Virginia Tech defense limit NC State’s high-powered offensive attack to just 259 yards of total offense by recording eight tackles, two sacks, a quarterback hurry, and a fumble recovery. Grimm leads the nation with seven forced fumbles.
11/23/2009 9:44a		SENIORS CHOOSE ALL WHITE FOR CAVALIERS: The Virginia Tech seniors have decided to wear their all white uniforms this Saturday against Virginia. This is the uniform combination the Hokies wore at Maryland. These uniforms are currently being auctioned off at Hokiesports.com. The auction ends today at 5pm. Nike has donated the proceeds of the auction to "Herma's Readers," a nonprofit organization that promotes literacy in the state of Virginia.
11/20/2009 12:23p		Interview with Sean Glennon BB.com: Well Sean Glennon, tomorrow in Blacksburg, the younger Glennon, Mike Glennon will be coming in with his NC State Wolfpack to take on Virginia Tech. So, a lot of people are wondering, is Sean Glennon a little conflicted with cheering for his school or for his brother? What are your thoughts on that? Sean Glennon: Ha, ha… well, I’m probably not going to give the answer that everyone will want to hear, but as you know blood is thicker than water. You can’t ever go against family. So I will be pulling for the Hokies in general, but if little brother gets into the game, I gotta stand behind him. BB.com: O.K., got it. Well, bring us up to speed on what you are up to these days. I know you were in camp with the Minnesota Vikings, and then I kind of lost track of what was happening. Can you fill us in on that? Sean Glennon: Well I was up there for about 3 months and then, I kind of just got called into the General Manager's office and they told me they were bringing in Brett Favre and they needed to clear a spot on the roster, and guess who’s spot it was? So I was sent packing for Brett. After that, I got a few workouts here and there, worked out with the Ravens, went down to Arizona and worked out there but I didn’t get any contract offers. So I started working for a mortgage bank up here in Fairfax to kind of stop myself from going crazy everyday waiting on a phone call. I’m still working out every morning and my agent is still working for me trying to set up work outs and try outs. I might have to wait until next year now given the season is already half over, but I am working and working out staying ready if needed. BB.com: It seems like you’ve never really expressed a lot of interest in the Canadian League, or the UFL, you’ve always been focused on the NFL. Would you consider the other leagues, or are you still set on the NFL, and trying to catch on with an NFL team? Sean Glennon: Yes, and yes. My sights are still set on the NFL. Being in Minnesota, although it didn’t work out, it gave me confidence, in that I felt I was just as good as some of the guys there. Of course they’re more experienced than me and I completely understand why I was the one chosen to be released, but at the same time it gave me confidence that I have the talent to play at that level, I just need to get into the right situation. Hopefully another Hall of Fame quarterback doesn’t come out of retirement this time ha, ha… but you know in regards to the CFL, that’s kind of a decision you have to make early on in the summer, due to their schedule, and at that time, I was still very involved with the Vikings. So I am very open to playing football somewhere, and those options are not out of the future, but we’ll just have to see where it goes this off-season. BB.com: Well, it’s kind of neat that you’ll forever be the answer to a trivia question, who did the Vikings release in order to be able to sign Brett Favre, and the answer is Sean Glennon. Sean Glennon: Yeah, well it makes for an interesting story or trivia, but it doesn’t exactly make me happy, ha, ha, ha. Interesting story, but at the end of the day, getting cut is still getting cut. BB.com: Have you had time to watch the development of brother Mike at NC State, and if so, can you bring us up to speed on him, and on your relationship and so forth? Sean Glennon: Well, I have five years worth of experience of playing against ACC teams so I kind of talk with him before games about personnel and what to expect, things like that. The coaching changes, and defensive coordinators change, but in general the programs are who they are, and I try to fill him in on what I know about them and what to expect. I watch all his games and he hasn’t played as much as we (the Glennon family) had all hoped for this season. I don’t think he’s played quite as much as he would have liked this year but he’s not getting discouraged. When he has played, he’s done fairly well, he did real well against Clemson when he went in, led them on an 87 yard drive for a score. He’s got the talent to play, he’s just stuck behind a guy in Russell Wilson who is good and is doing pretty well at the position for them. I’m hoping he’ll get a shot this weekend, that’s for sure. BB.com: So when I see you this weekend, you’re going to be sporting a Wolfpack sweatshirt and hat? Ha, ha, ha! Sean Glennon: Absolutely not, I wouldn’t want the dogs to get after me like that! Ha, ha, ha! That would put a bullseye on my back for sure! But like I said, no offense to the Hokie Nation, I’ve been pulling for VT in every game of course, and I’m still with them on this one, but if my brother gets into the game, I can’t go against family, so I will be pulling for him in that case. BB.com: Understood, and nobody can blame you for that! Thanks so much for the time, we appreciate it! Sean Glennon: No problem, my pleasure.
11/18/2009 12:43p		GRIMM GETS A VOTE FROM FRIDGEN Maryland head football coach, Ralph Fridgen, announced today on the ACC teleconference that he voted VT linebacker, Cody Grimm, First Team All ACC. "I'm good friends with his father (Russ Grimm) and actually tried to hire him when I was in San Diego(Chargers)," says Fridgen. "But that had nothing to do with my vote, I think Cody is an outstanding football player."
11/18/2009 12:22p		GOOD LUCK LADIES! Virginia Tech football was up early this morning to send off coach Kelly Cagle and the VT women's soccer team. The team left at 6:30 am, headed to the great northwest for a Friday, Sweet 16 matchup at Portland. VT is the 3rd-seed, while Portland is seeded 2nd. Coach Beamer made sure each member of the soccer team, coaching staff included, received a "goodie bag" for the trip. Also on hand for this morning's send off was baseball coach Pete Hughes and his entire team.
11/15/2009 11:01a		TECH’S FINAL TWO GAMES SCHEDULED FOR 3:30PM KICKOFFS Nov 21 - NC State @ VT (3:30pm ESPNU) Nov 28 - VT @ UVA (3:30pm ESPN)
11/12/2009 8:03p		WARREN NOT EXPECTED TO TRAVEL TO MARYLAND Michael Via is scheduled to make his second straight start at center this Saturday when Virginia Tech battles Maryland. Beau Warren continues to rehab his sprained knee and is not expected to make the trip to College Park.
11/12/2009 4:20p		VT INJURY REPORT FOR MARYLAND GAME: Beau Warren (Doubtful) Knee
11/12/2009 2:22p		WILLIAMS MAKES THE CUT DALLAS, Texas - The Guaranty Bank SMU Athletic Forum Board of Directors announced today the 10 semifinalists for the 2009 Doak Walker Award. The semifinalists (in alphabetical order) are: Donald Buckram (Jr.) UTEP Jonathan Dwyer (Jr.) Georgia Tech Toby Gerhart (Sr.) Stanford Mark Ingram (So.) Alabama Dion Lewis (Fr.) Pittsburgh Ryan Mathews (Jr.) Fresno State Jacquizz Rodgers (So.) Oregon State C.J. Spiller (Sr.) Clemson Ben Tate (Sr.) Auburn Ryan Williams (Fr.) Virginia Tech For Williams, he is one of two freshmen on the semifinalist list and one of three ACC players on the list. He has rushed for 1,109 yards and has 11 total touchdowns this year. He is ninth nationally in rushing yards per game.
11/11/2009 10:55p		STRENGTH OF SCHEDULE Through 9 games: 1. Florida 2. Alabama 3. TCU 4. Texas 5. Cincinnati 09. GT 11. VT 13. Miami 15. Clemson 27. BC Virginia Tech is the only team ranked in the Top 25 who's first nine opponents all have winning records.
11/9/2009 1:06p		ACC ROOKIE OF THE WEEK Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech, RB, Fr. 5-9, 205, Manassas, Va. (Stonewall Jackson) Virginia Tech freshman running back Ryan Williams earned his sixth Rookie of the Week accolade as he became the first running back in the ACC to eclipse the 1,100-yard mark this season with a season-high 179 rushing yards on 26 carries (6.9 yards per rush) against East Carolina. Williams’ sixth 100-yard rushing performance of 2009 was just the second against the Pirate defense this season. He also caught three passes for nine yards. This season, Williams is leading all ACC ball carriers with 1,109 rushing yards. Only two former ACC freshmen have won as many or more Rookie honors, as NC State’s Philip Rivers was named Rookie of the Week eight times in 2000, and North Carolina’s Darian Durant earned six awards in 2001.
11/7/2009 8:33a		FRANK BEAMER - Head Coach & Special Teams Comments on the win over East Carolina: “I’m really pleased with the way our football team and our coaches performed. You know, everybody had to hang in here and stay together last week. I thought our team was great about staying united and that comes from our coaches and the way they worked with our players. We went into a hostile environment and beat a very good East Carolina team. I think we beat them at their best. Their crowd was into it, ESPN was there and they had a very good atmosphere, they were hyped up and had everything working in their favor. Plus, ECU has a very good football team. Actually, I thought they were better in person than they were on the video tape, and they were very good on tape. I really appreciate how our team handled themselves. A word I like to use is, relentless. And I thought we were. I thought we played hard on every play of the ball game. On offense, we didn’t score as much as I’d like. We left some points out there. But, we moved the ball well at times. Then, we had things that keep you from scoring, a penalty, a missed block, a wrong route and things that knock you out of your offensive rhythm. But overall, we had some good plays, had some good yards and scored enough to win. On defense, I’m pleased that they held a good ECU team to only 3 points. That’s just impressive. Our defense played hard and we also played better fundamentally. Everybody just did their job. On special teams, Brent Bowden is doing a great job with punting. He had a 45 yard average and had 2 punts over 50 yards. He had a couple kicks I wanted him to down inside the 10 yard line. We’ll work on that this week. Matt Waldron continues to do a super job with our field goals. Jayron Hosley just has a knack for returning punts. Don’t get me wrong, he wasn’t alone, he had some people hustling and throwing great blocks. Like, Alonzo Tweedy. Tweedy had a big night with 4 tackles, 3 great efforts, 1 tackle inside the 10 yard line, 1 big hit and he continues to really be a play maker for us on special teams. He continues to impress. Overall, this was a big win for our football program. Now, we concentrate on Maryland and try to finish off this season strong. We want to continue to play better at the end of the year because that shows you’re making improvement. When November rolls around, and the weather turns, that’s when tough teams, both mentally and physically, make their move. I’d like to think we’re a tough minded and a physically tough program. We need another strong November finish.”
11/6/2009 1:58p		Nike to reveal Virginia Tech Football Rivalry Game Day Uniform on campus Don’t miss the on-campus celebration on Monday, November 9, 2009 when Nike reveals a new rivalry game day football uniform to be worn for Virginia Tech vs. Maryland, on November 14, 2009. Bill Roth, voice of the Hokies and master of ceremony for this event, will be joined by Hokie athletes, cheerleaders, athletic director Jim Weaver, and head coach Frank Beamer. Professional athletes who played for the Hokies will join us for the fun and sign autographs. A local DJ will spin tunes before and after the presentation on the Squires Plaza between the University Bookstore and Newman Library. Limited replica jerseys and rivalry game day t-shirts will be available for purchase at the University Bookstore and the mobile Nike retail center. The mobile Nike retail center will also make its way around the New River Valley throughout the week. Dates and locations are as follows: Sunday, November 8, 2009 – New River Valley Mall (Christiansburg, VA) Monday, November 9, 2009 – Squires Plaza and Drillfield Tuesday, November 10, 2009 – University Mall, University Center Blvd. Wednesday, November 11, 2009 – Tanglewood Mall (Roanoke, VA)
11/2/2009 3:02p		The Atlantic Coast Conference announced the following game times and networks for the games of Nov. 14th: Virginia Tech at Maryland, ESPN360.com, 1 pm Boston College at Virginia, ESPN360.com, 3:30 pm
11/1/2009 2:35p		From the Training Room: Virginia Tech starting center, Beau Warren, is currently listed as “doubtful” for Thursday’s game with East Carolina. Warren sustained a sprained knee in the game with North Carolina. Michael Via has been working with the first team offense in Warren’s absence.
11/1/2009 2:18p		The Atlantic Coast Conference announces game times and networks for the games of Nov 5th and 7th. Thursday, Nov. 5: Virginia Tech @ East Carolina, ESPN, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7: Virginia @ Miami, Raycom, 12 noon Maryland @ NC State, ESPN360.com, 1 pm Duke @ North Carolina, ESPNU, 3:30 p.m. Wake Forest @ Georgia Tech, ABC/ESPN2, 3:30 pm Florida State @ Clemson, ESPN, 7:45 pm
10/31/2009 7:23a		FRANK BEAMER - Head Coach & Special Teams “Our game with UNC, we just never got in sync. We just never got a rhythm for the total team. When our offense was going well, we had a tough time getting them off the field with our defense. Then, when our defense was going well, we had a tough time putting points on the board with our offense. However, I did see some good things on both sides of the ball, we just weren’t consistent enough with it. On special teams, I thought our kicking teams were pretty good other than the penalty on our punt return. We just have to lay off that guy because I’m not sure we even needed to get that guy blocked. Then, on the punt return we did set up, one more block and we take that one all the way. That’s just the way it went all night, close. We were close in all areas and that’s frustrating. Even on the last play where we fumbled, if we just block the defensive tackle better, that one has a chance to pop. So, give UNC credit. They’re very good on defense. Their quarterback played a very good game for them. They came in here and played hard and played well and I’m a believer in giving credit where credit is due. Our challenge is to get tighter as ever as a football team. Our challenge is work harder than ever. In my heart, I know that we have a good football team, but we have to show it. We have to make it happen. We need a great week of practice because going to East Carolina will not be easy. Being close is both frustrating and encouraging. It’s frustrating because you didn’t get it done, but it’s encouraging because you’re close enough that you know you can get it done. You just have to do it.”
10/28/2009 1:16p		Orange Effect... with Maroon Tossed in for Good Measure For the Orange Effect game Thursday night against UNC, the Hokies will wear orange jerseys and maroon pants. Here's a photo of tomorrow night's combination. Enjoy. Virginia Tech Uniform for UNC Game and Orange Effect
10/27/2009 7:26p		Virginia Tech has released its injury report for Thursday's game against North Carolina: Probable John Graves (ankle) Out Brandon Dillard (ankle)
10/21/2009 3:47p		ACC FANS, FYI: Ticket Information Released Today for 2010 Dr Pepper ACC Football Championship Game in Charlotte Charlotte, N.C. – The 2010 ACC Football Championship Game organizers today announced public ticket information for the 2010 game in Charlotte. In addition, the official website www.accfootballcharlotte.com, was launched in conjunction with the announcement. Ticket packages will go on sale to the public on February 1, 2010, and be sold through the official game website. Individual tickets will go on sale through TicketMaster on March 15, 2010. Prices begin at just $25 and $40 for Upper Level tickets while Lower Level tickets will be $70 and $90. Club Level tickets will be $150 and $175 and are only available through ticket packages. Fans can now visit the official website, www.accfootballcharlotte.com, to preregister for tickets and for more information about the game and surrounding events. The Atlantic Coast Conference Football Championship games will be played in Charlotte on December 4, 2010 and December 3, 2011. The games will be held at Bank of America Stadium, home of the NFL's Carolina Panthers and the Meineke Car Care Bowl. For more information, please visit www.accfootballcharlotte.com.
10/19/2009 1:32p		Atlantic Coast Conference Announces ACC Football Players of the Week: ROOKIE – Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech, RB, Fr. 5-9, 205, Manassas, Va. (Stonewall Jackson) Virginia Tech freshman running back Ryan Williams rushed for 100 yards for the fifth time this season—a Hokie freshman record—in a 28-23 loss to 19th-ranked Georgia Tech. Despite limited practice time during the week due to illness, Williams amassed an even 100 yards on 14 carries (7.1 yards per carry) and scored on a season-high 66-yard run in the third quarter to bring the Hokies to within four points of Georgia Tech at 14-10. Williams later caught a seven-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Tyrod Taylor that again put the Hokies within striking distance of the Jackets. In the process, Williams also scored his 10th and 11th touchdowns of the season, also tying a Virginia Tech record for first-year players.
10/19/2009 1:27p		ACC Announces Kickoff Times and TV for Oct. 29-31: Thursday, Oct. 29 North Carolina at Virginia Tech, ESPN, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31 NC State at Florida State, RAYCOM, 12 noon Coastal Carolina at Clemson, ESPN360.com, 1:30 p.m. Central Michigan at Boston College, ESPNU, 3:30 p.m. Duke at Virginia, ESPN360.com, 3:30 p.m. Miami at Wake Forest, ABC, 3:30 p.m. Georgia Tech at Vanderbilt, CSS, 7:30 p.m.
10/19/2009 9:52a		FRANK BEAMER - Head Coach & Special Teams “I thought our effort was fine. However, I don’t think our play was always as good as it needed to be. I give Georgia Tech a lot of credit because they played hard and they played well. With our defense, Coach (Paul) Johnson and their staff have run that offense for so many years that they’ve seen everything you can throw at them. We had a long defensive meeting following this game and I think we’ll have some different things that we can throw at them the next time around. It’s going to take some time to figure out exactly how to attack and adjust to an offense that you only see one time a year. But, give them credit. We made our adjustments and they were quick to counter that. They made some important adjustments of their own and their last touchdown came on a good adjustment by their staff. On offense, we have to take advantage of our field position. We had the ball on their side of the field early and didn’t get the points that we needed. You have to get points against this team. It’s very important to get the lead. Georgia Tech is a different team as opposed to what they do when they have the lead and when they don’t. So, it was unfortunate that we didn’t take advantage and grab the lead. That could have changed the complexion of the game. On special teams, we had some great plays in our kick returns. Othen than that, nothing really stood out. I still feel good about this football team. I feel the same about this group coming out of this game as I did coming out of the game with Boston College. I honestly think that we can do some outstanding things this season. These players fight to the very end. We just have to take care of the details and continue to improve as a team. We’re going to practice on Tuesday and Wednesday and then we’ll jump into our normal game week for the upcoming game with North Carolina. Of course I’m disappointed that we lost the game. But, I think we’ll be better prepared the next time we line up against their offense.”
10/17/2009 3:59p		Couple notes from Atlanta: Ryan Williams has been battling the flu all week. He did travel with the team and will attempt to play in tonight's game with Georgia Tech The Hokies have elected to wear their "maroon throwback" jerseys for tonight's game with the Yellow Jackets.
10/15/2009 7:35p		Per ACC guidelines, Virginia Tech has released its' injury report for Saturday's game against Georgia Tech: Probable Marcus Davis (ankle) Mark Muncey (knee) Sergio Render (pec strain) Eddie Whitley (ankle) Ryan Williams (illness) Out Brandon Dillard (ankle)
10/14/2009 10:15a		The Case of the Missing Jerseys: Roanoke, Virginia NBC affiliate WSLS-10 presents a look back at the "Case of the Missing Jerseys in 2007." Enjoy!
10/12/2009 1:08p		Atlantic Coast Conference players of the week announced: ROOKIE – Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech, RB, Fr. 5-9, 205, Manassas, Va. (Stonewall Jackson) Virginia Tech freshman running back Ryan Williams went over the 100-yard rushing mark for the fourth time this season to set a Hokie freshman mark with four 100-yard rushing performances. Williams rushed for 158 yards in 18 attempts (8.2 yards per rush) and a touchdown in a 48-14 win against Boston College in a rematch of the last two ACC Championship games. Williams totaled 138 rushing yards in the first half, while sitting out most of the second half. He also caught a 23-yard pass to finish the day with 182 total yards of offense. Williams owns three of the top-10 rushing performances in the league to date, and leads the ACC and is sixth nationally with 122.3 rushing yards per game.
10/8/2009 7:33p		Virginia Tech injury report for Saturday's game against Boston College in Blacksburg: Probable Nekos Brown (illness) Blake DeChristopher (ankle) John Graves (ankle)
10/8/2009 1:26p		Hokie Traditions Homecoming Spirit Rally Graduate Life Center Lawn near Squires Blacksburg- On Friday October 9, the Student Alumni Associates of the Virginia Tech Alumni Association will be sponsoring a Hokie Traditions Homecoming Spirit Rally. The rally will begin at 6 PM on the Graduate Life Center Lawn across from Squires Student Center. Highlights will include an appearance by men's basketball head Coach Seth Greenberg and his team as they begin the 2009-2010 basketball season. Homecoming highlights will include the Ranger Game Ball Run, the Flaming VT and introduction of the 2009 Homecoming Court. The rally will include the HokieBird, Cheerleaders, HighTechs, Highty-Tighties, Dance Company, and the Low Techs. Fans will have the opportunity to participate in a "Best Bud Foster Half-Time Speech" to win a VT lunch pail fan kit, as well as the opportunity to win a signed basketball by Coach Greenburg. Other highlights will include free giveaways and great prizes, and 2009 limited edition HokieZone "Top Ten" shirts (for sale for $10 and some will be thrown out to the crowd"). For more information contact the Virginia Tech Alumni Association at (540) 231-6285 or email at vtclass@vt.edu. Sponsored by the Virginia Tech Alumni Association, the Student Alumni Associates (SAA) is a student-run service organization that serves as a liaison between the students, alumni, and the Alumni Association. SAA participates in many activities across campus, including reunions at football game weekends, HokieZone shirt sales, Faculty Appreciation Day, and other spirited events.
10/5/2009 9:59p		Impressive, on and off the field: No, that's not a Virginia Tech professor, it's actually student-athlete David Wilson. We snapped this photo as Wilson was leaving the football complex on his way to class. The attire is nothing new for David, Wilson has been attending school in a shirt and tie and dress clothes since his high school days. "I've found that people tend to respect you more when you carry yourself in a professional manner," says Wilson. Hard to argue with that! Go Hokies! Virginia Tech Freshman Running Back David Wilson
10/5/2009 7:29p		Head Coach Frank Beamer has asked Darren Evans to represent himself, Tech's football program, and the University in Saturday's check presentation to Mark Herzlich of Boston College. Evans, the Orange Bowl MVP, will present Herzlich, the 2008 ACC Defensive Player of the Year, with a check for $9,494.94 (Herzlich's jersey number is #94). Coach Beamer would like to thank everyone who contributed in this project to battle cancer in Herzlich's honor.
10/5/2009 4:16p		In one depth chart move today, red shirt freshman Austin Fuller has moved up to 2nd team "Z" receiver. Fuller is behind Danny Coale and Dyrell Roberts who are tied for the first team spot. Fuller has been impressive with his work on the scout team thus far this season.
10/5/2009 11:27a		ACC Announces Kickoff Times and TV for Oct. 17th GREENSBORO, NC – The Atlantic Coast Conference announces the following game times and networks for the games of Saturday, Oct. 17th: Wake Forest at Clemson, RAYCOM, 12 noon NC State at Boston College, ABC, 3:30 pm Virginia at Maryland, ESPNU, 4 pm Virginia Tech at Georgia Tech, ESPN2, 6 pm Miami at UCF, CBSCS, 7:30 pm
10/2/2009 10:58a		Redshirt sophomore Andrew Lanier will get his first start at right tackle on Saturday.
10/1/2009 10:04p		Duke Bound Cadets Jorge Secada-Lovio (left), first sergeant in Echo Company, and Thomas Regnaud, a sophomore in Charlie Company, have been recognized as our Cadets of the Month for September, and their hard work is being rewarded by traveling with the Virginia Tech football team to Duke for Saturday's game. They will travel, lodge and eat with the team and will be on the field to receive the team flags from the football team. Go Hokies! Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets "Cadets of the Month" Jorge Secada-Lovio (lft), and Thomas Regnaud (rt) will receive the flags from the team at the Duke game Saturday
10/1/2009 8:54p		Per ACC guidelines, Virginia Tech has released its Thursday injury report for Saturday's game against Duke at Durham, NC: Probable Blake DeChristopher (ankle) Davon Morgan (shoulder) Dyrell Roberts (hamstring) Demetrius Taylor (calf)
10/1/2009 10:29a		GET ON THE BUS GUS One of the best attributes of being in the ACC, is the proximity of the other member institutions. The literal closeness builds stronger rivalries, not only through the continuity of the media coverage, but, by allowing fan bases to follow their schools with over-and-back, day trips. Of course that makes it a lot cheaper for the fans to follow their teams, but think about what it does for the schools. For example, the Chick-fil-a people will write a check big enough to cover all associated expenses for Virginia Tech’s game with Alabama in Atlanta. So, thanks to those good people, we’re not adding that game to the ledger. Now, let’s check the travel expenses for the remainder of the 2009 football season when it comes to moving the Tech football machine. In the other five away games, the Hokies will only travel by charter once (@GT). That’s incredible. All other trips will be made by bus (@Duke, @ECU, @MD & @UVA). And, the savings go straight to the Athletic budget’s bottom line. And the savings are significant! Of course, the Hokies catch a break this season, because the outer most posts in the ACC (Boston College and Miami) travel to Blacksburg. Tech’s only charter flight this season (again, the Alabama game is covered) will be to Atlanta to face Georgia Tech. A charter these days will run you between $80 - $100k. On the other hand, the going rate for four buses is between $15 - $20k. You do the math! There are tons of perks associated with being in the ACC, but reducing travel expenses is a big one! Unlike the days in the Big East, where EVERY away game involved the big expense of a charter flight.
9/29/2009 9:55a		ACC KICKOFF TIMES, OCT 10TH Saturday, Oct. 10 Boston College at Virginia Tech, RAYCOM, 12 noon Indiana at Virginia, ESPN360.com, 3:30 p.m. Georgia Southern at North Carolina, ESPN360.com, 3:30 p.m. Duke at NC State, ESPNU, 4 p.m. Maryland at Wake Forest, ESPN360.com, 6:30 pm Florida A&M at Miami, ESPN360.com, 7 p.m. Georgia Tech at Florida State, ABC, ESPN, or ESPN2, (time not set)
9/28/2009 11:50a		The Boston College game will kick off at noon on October 10.
9/27/2009 1:27p		ACC Announces Kickoff Times and TV for Oct 3rd: GREENSBORO, NC – The Atlantic Coast Conference announced Sunday that ESPN/ABC has selected the following games for the TV networks and game times listed below: Oklahoma at Miami, ABC, 8 pm Florida State at Boston College, ABC, 3:30 pm The Atlantic Coast Conference previously announced the following game times and networks for Saturday, Oct. 3: Virginia at North Carolina, RAYCOM, 12 noon Clemson at Maryland, ESPNU, 12 noon Virginia Tech at Duke, ESPN360.com, 12 noon NC State at Wake Forest, ESPNU, 3:30 pm Georgia Tech at Mississippi State, CSS, 7:30 pm **(ESPN360.com is ESPN’s video streaming platform)
9/26/2009 7:27p		Post Game Quick Hitters: Now that was a show of respect! Miami offensive coordinator, Mark Whipple, ran all the way across the field and into Virginia Tech's locker room immediately after the game and shouted the following: "I just wanted to come over here and congratulate your defensive line for whipping our *&%! Good luck the rest of the season." No post game news conference for Tyrod Taylor. Virginia Tech's QB bowed out of the interviews due to a chipped tooth and a mouth full of blood. Sergio Render said "I thought I was dead." That was following a blast to the sternum/stomach that took big #70's wind. "I'm serious, that dude hit me right in my gut, and I heard and felt stuff cracking, things started flashing in my eyes and I couldn't breathe. I honestly thought I was going to die. Finally, the trainer got out there and I started to get some air back in my lungs. That's the first time I've ever lost my air like that and I don't want it to happen ever again." Game Balls: Ryan Williams (Player of the Game) Tyrod Taylor (Offensive) Rock Carmichael (Defensive) Brent Bowden (Special Teams) VT Fans - for doing what they do!!!!!
9/25/2009 6:22p		Your Hokies will be in all Maroon tomorrow. Be loud and be proud!
9/24/2009 11:11p		Per ACC guidelines, Virginia Tech has released its Thursday injury report for Saturday's game against Miami at Blacksburg, VA: Collin Carroll (ankle) - probable John Graves (ankle) - probable Stephan Virgil (knee) - probable Eddie Whitley (pectoral) - probable Jason Worilds (back spasms) - probable
9/24/2009 1:38p		Virginia Tech football announces Herzlich fund raiser BLACKSBURG, Va. - Head coach Frank Beamer and the Virginia Tech Football team announced Thursday a fund raiser to aid Mark Herzlich, a linebacker for Boston College, in his fight with cancer. Team United wrist bands will be sold for $1 each this Saturday as the Hokies take on the Miami Hurricanes at 3:30 p.m. Members of the Virginia Tech football scout team will be circulating throughout the parking lots in an effort to sell wrist bands. Herzlich was diagnosed last spring with Ewing's Sarcoma a rare form of cancer that typically affects young men. The goal of this initiative is to raise $5,094 and present him a check prior to kickoff when Boston College visits Lane Stadium on Oct. 10. The 94 is in honor of the jersey number Herzlich wears on the football field. All funds donated will go directly to Uplifting Athletes. Uplifting Athletes is a national non-profit organization aligning college football with rare diseases and raising them as a national priority through outreach, research, education and advocacy. For more information on Uplifting Athletes log on to www.upliftingathletes.org. Wrist bands will also be available at the University Bookstore, Volume II and the Hokie Stadium Shops in Lane Stadium. Individuals or groups wishing to purchase a minimum of 100 wrist bands can do so by emailing the Virginia Tech Football Office at lepperly@vt.edu. Checks are to be made out to Uplifting Athletes and no credit card orders will be taken.
9/23/2009 11:38a		The Marines will perform an attack helicopeter fly-over before the Miami game on 9/26/09. Please click here to read about the amazing Super Cobra chopper this fly-by. Enjoy!
9/23/2009 9:46a		Head trainer Mike Goforth expects John Graves to practice in blue(limited) today with the remainder of the dress squad practicing full. Lorenzo Williams will not dress out for the first time this season. Williams will redshirt this season.
9/22/2009 10:25a		And we’re back...... Sorry about being off line earlier this morning, but, we had a raccoon chew through the power grid and that left us, and many others, fried! (Raccoon included - ouch!) Power has been restored and now the engineers are in the process of getting us back up to full speed. We appreciate your support!
9/21/2009 11:32a		Tech's game with Duke will begin at noon on ESPN 360.
9/20/2009 3:18p		Coach Beamer’s comments after watching game tape of the win over Nebraska: “Just a great win for our football program. We had a great deal of respect for this Nebraska football team before this game, and now, even more, that we’ve played them. I’m very impressed with Nebraska and that makes this victory even more special. However, we have to play better. On offense, we have to execute better. We have to carry out our assignments. We have to function more efficiently in our passing game. We have to pitch it better and we have to catch it better. On defense, we have to tackle better. We missed too many tackles. But, you really have to give the defense credit for holding Nebraska to field goals. For both our defense and offense, effort isn’t the issue. Our players go as hard as they can. Our issue is making sure we execute. In the kicking game, Matt Waldron continues to do a good job for us. And Brent Bowden, after his first punt, really helped us in this football game. Our head hunters, Zach Luckett and Alonzo Tweedy were very good all afternoon. And, Justin Myer came through with a big kickoff on his last one when we really needed it. Our coverage on that kick was outstanding as well, led by Luckett and Davon Morgan. I really think we have what we need to be a really good football team, we just need to put it together. We’ll continue to work to improve in all areas. That’s our challenge as we head into this big game with Miami. Also, I’d like to thank all the fans for hanging in there with us. We thought that game was going to be a wire to wire slugfest and that’s exactly what it was. We felt that whoever made the plays down the stretch would win it. It was exciting to see our guys make some plays at the end. I hope our fans bring their best again on Saturday to help us with Miami.”
9/17/2009 3:59p		Per ACC guidelines, Virginia Tech has released its Thursday injury report for Saturday's game against Nebraska at Blacksburg, VA: Greg Boone (SC joint sprain) - probable Stephan Virgil (knee) - questionable
9/15/2009 2:37p		In case you’re interested, the Hokies will wear their maroon jerseys with white pants this Saturday against Nebraska. Also, Pro Football Hall of Famer, Bruce Smith, will be on the sidelines for this weekend’s game with the Cornhuskers. And, Tech great Corey Moore, is scheduled to be with the Hokies for next Saturday’s game with Miami.
9/14/2009 7:14p		Injury update: Greg Boone (shoulder) and Stephan Virgil (knee) returned to practice this evening. The Hokies are hoping that both will be able to play this Saturday against Nebraska.
9/14/2009 2:19p		ACC T.V. Times: The ACC has announced the television time for Virginia Tech's home game with Miami coming up on Septemper 26th at Lane Stadium. Miami @ Virginia Tech, ABC/ESPN*, 3:30 pm
9/14/2009 10:19a		Frank Beamer comments on the win over Marshall: “I’m really proud of this football team. We made strides as a football team last week and it showed in our game with Marshall. That’s our goal, to get better each and every week. I’m also excited to see these freshmen having a big impact. Ryan Williams, David Wilson, Xavier Boyce, Jayron Hosley and others, are all really playing well. They’re making big plays and they’re only going to get better and it really gets you excited about the future as well. Also, I’m very pleased with Cody Grimm. Not only is he playing great on defense, but he’s also a play maker on our special teams. He made a couple tackles on punt coverage and on kickoff coverage. I’m proud of the way Justin Myer kicked the football against Marshall. I’ve been asking him to give me height on his kicks and he’s doing it. I think this was the exact game we needed for our football team. For the most part, the defense played extremely well. We gave Marshall a couple long plays, but other than those two, the defense was solid. And, the offense moved the ball and put points on the board. We blocked well, we ran it well and we threw it around and made plays in the passing game. And, our special teams put points on the board as well. Again, this was a team win. A total team win. So, everybody should be proud of that.”
9/10/2009 7:16p		Per ACC guidelines, Virginia Tech has released its' Thursday injury report for Saturday's game against Marshall at Blacksburg, Va: Greg Boone (SC joint sprain) - doubtful Stephan Virgil (knee) - doubtful
9/7/2009 1:18p		Hokies Concerned about Boone’s Shoulder: As expected, the game with Alabama was very physical. However, the Hokies only significant injury concern is over the status of tight end, Greg Boone. Boone suffered a gash above his eye, then later, hurt his shoulder while blocking. Boone’s injury is being described as a “shoulder sprain,” and it’s anticipated that his status will be listed as “day to day.” Linebacker Barquell Rivers had his nose stitched up during halftime of the Alabama game. He also had cuts to his mouth, but the medical team decided not to put stitches in his mouth. Middle linebackers have to be tough, and Rivers is. Also, Bruce Taylor (ankle) is expected to return to practice this evening, along with Courtney Prince (ACL). And, we’re told that Darren Evans is doing “great” things in his rehab following knee surgery.
9/7/2009 10:27a		Coach Beamer’s comments on Saturday’s game with Alabama: “I really think that our players played hard. They really gave great effort, battled, and I’m proud of that. I’m proud of how hard we played, but, our execution has to be better. You look at this game video, and on defense, there are five or six plays, that if we just execute better, we don’t give up long plays. Then on offense, we were about ready to have long plays on about five or six plays, if we just execute better. And, of course, if we get those plays on offense, that gives us some momentum and that affects the whole game. So, on one hand, I’m very encouraged, because I think we can be a very good football team. I think we have a talented group of players and I know they play extremely hard. Now it’s up to us to make sure we get them in position to succeed. When you play against the best, you can’t make mistakes. We made too many mistakes and we failed to execute in critical situations of this ball game. That’s disappointing. But, what’s encouraging is that both of those are correctable. Now it’s time to get back to work and make sure that we’re better in game two than we were in game one. Our goal is to get better each and every week. In the kicking game, I’m particularly pleased with our kickers. Justin Myer did a good job, for the most part, in putting some air under his kickoffs, allowing our guys to get down and give good coverage. Brent Bowden was excellent with his hang time and that kept a dangerous punt returner from cranking it up. And, Matt Waldron, in his first start, was very good. So, I’m really encouraged with these guys and that’s another reason I’m optimistic about this team. Right now, Greg Boone is the player I’m concerned about as far as injuries are concerned. We’ll see what the medical staff has to say before tonight’s practice. But, I can tell you that this was a very physical ball game, and I thought we played physical throughout. Alabama confirmed what we thought coming into this game. They’re very talented and very good. They have some outstanding talent and they executed. They made big plays, big runs, big catches, big blocks, big throws, big stops when they needed to. And, in this game, the team that executes is the team that wins. We’re all disappointed that we didn’t come out on top, but, I’m very encouraged with the young men we have in this program. We have a lot to play for this year and we’ll learn from this game with Alabama and we’ll get better.” (BeamerBall.com Note: We’ll have the rest of the coaching staff’s evaluation of the Alabama game in tonight’s “Daily Practice Report.”)
9/3/2009 3:51p		Lane Stadium Worsham Field will rumble even more than it normally does for a home game, when not one, but TWO B1-B bombers perform a fly-over before the Marshall game on 9/12/09. Please click here to read about the amazing B1-B Bombers and this fly-by. Enjoy!
9/3/2009 3:49p		Williams named starting tailback for Alabama game, Jefferson will not play in game BLACKSBURG - Virginia Tech head football coach Frank Beamer, along with running backs coach Billy Hite, announced Thursday that redshirt freshman Ryan Williams (Manassas, Va.) has earned the starting job at tailback for Saturday's season opener against Alabama in Atlanta. Hite added that all three tailbacks - Williams, redshirt sophomore Josh Oglesby (Garner, N.C.) and true freshman David Wilson (Danville, Va.) - will play "early and often." Beamer also announced Thursday that redshirt senior fullback Kenny Jefferson would not play in the Alabama game after being suspended on Aug. 16 for a violation of team policy. In making the announcement, Beamer said there would be no further comment on the situation.
8/31/2009 10:46a		It's official, wear CHICAGO MAROON! Organizers of the Chick-fil-A College Kickoff announced today that Virginia Tech will wear MAROON jerseys and Alabama will wear white when the two teams play in the Georgia Dome, this Saturday night. In conjunction with this announcement, the Chick-fil-A College Kickoff committee is asking all Virginia Tech fans to wear maroon shirts and Alabama fans to wear white for this game. What will the team wear? Although the Hokies have a couple of uniform surprises this season, Lester Karlin will outfit Tech in its standard maroon jersey with white pants combination.
8/28/2009 3:58p		Tech filled out it's roster of 120 players with the addition of Mark Carter, FS from Jefferson Forest, Brandon Keith, WR from Patrick Henry and Adam Dyer, RB from Cave Spring.
8/27/2009 1:17p		Prior to today's practice, Tyrod Taylor, Ed Wang, Cam Martin and Cody Grimm spent the afternoon reading to youngsters as part of Coach Beamers Herma's Readers program. The Hokies will hit the practice field at 5:15 this afternoon.
8/26/2009 7:48p		Coach Beamer had this to say following tonight’s Stadium Scrimmage #3: “Overall, the scrimmage probably turned out the way it needed to. The first offense scored 27 points against the second defense, and, the second offense didn’t score any points against the first defense. Tyrod Taylor was 12-of-19 for 168 yards and I thought he was sharp and very much in control. D.J. Coles had 3 catches for 52 yards and a touchdown. Andre Smith had 2 catches for 42 yards. They stood out. At tailback, I thought it looked like Josh Oglesby and David Wilson have been missing practice time. Also, I think Ryan Williams' ankle is still a little tender. We really need to get Oglesby and Wilson as much work as we can to try and get them back up to speed. We really need a great week and a half at our tailback position to try and get those guys ready to go against an outstanding defense. I’m proud of Matt Waldron. He hit two field goals, 43 and 27 yards. He’s been solid. Kam Chancellor came up with a big interception. That first defense really flew around. I really thought that this was a good aggressive scrimmage. I think all of our scrimmages have been that way. We also were able to get more conditioning under game like circumstances. Our coaches were able to communicate from sideline to coaches box and work out any bugs. Bottom line, this was a really good practice for us and now we turn our full attention to getting ready to go play Alabama.”
8/26/2009 7:16p		Tech just completed Stadium Scrimmage #3, the final Scrimmage leading up to the season opener in Atlanta. Only one minor injury occurred this afternoon with Bruce Taylor spraining his ankle. The coaches will grade the video this evening, then hold a staff meeting on Thursday to finalize the travel roster for game #1 with Alabama.
8/26/2009 11:40a		Seniors Kam Chancellor, Cody Grimm, Greg Boone and Ed Wang have been selected as team captains for the Alabama game.
8/25/2009 7:21p		Head trainer Mike Goforth was quite pleased with all of Tech's running backs today. Josh Ogelsby, Ryan Williams and David Wilson all completed practice this afternoon.
8/24/2009 2:03p		As the coaches begin to finalize the travel team for the Alabama game, it looks as though 5 freshmen may travel. D.J. Coles, Logan Thomas, Tony Gregory, Jayron Hosley and David Wilson all look to have an opportunity to travel this season. They will join 14 redshirt freshmen who look to make the trip to Atlanta. The final travel squad will be determined following Wednesday's closed scrimmage.
8/24/2009 9:56a		As a reminder, Wednesday's (8/26/09)previously announced open scrimmage has now been officially changed to a closed practice. We appreciate the support at the other open scrimmages and hope you enjoyed them, but Wednesday's practice is closed to the public. Thanks for your understanding and compliance.
8/23/2009 4:57p		Head Trainer Mike Goforth expects Coach Billy Hite to have his full stable of tailbacks for practice on Tuesday. Josh Oglesby and David Wilson will re-join Ryan Williams, Tony Gregory and Zac Evans in the backfield. As Virginia Tech begins the first day of classes tomorrow, the Hokies will not practice. Coach Beamer has awarded kicker Matt Waldron with a scholarship. The Tech senior has solidified his position as the number one field goal kicker this preseason.
8/23/2009 11:03a		Here's our set of photos from yesterday's scrimmage:Click here and enjoy!
8/22/2009 5:36p		BeamerBall.com Bits: Coach Beamer confirmed that Ju-Ju Clayton has won the job as #2 quarterback to backup starter Tyrod Taylor. The Hokies would like to redshirt Logan Thomas, but will travel the true freshman and continue to give him the reps necessary in case the redshirt has to come off and he’s needed to play. Also, the reason that Thomas didn’t participate in special teams is because he’s off those units in an effort to redshirt him. Mike Goforth says that both Josh Oglesby and David Wilson will return to “full contact” on Monday. He also says that Demetrius Taylor “cramped” during the scrimmage. The Marching Virginians did a great job entertaining the fans and providing crowd noise at today’s scrimmage. And, for their first “official” practice, they sounded in mid-season form!
8/22/2009 3:55p		END OF SCRIMMAGE
8/22/2009 3:54p		2 O vs. 2 D Ball at 3 yard line going in 1st & goal, from 3, Logan Thomas keeps, no gain 2nd & goal, from 3, Z. Evans carry for 1 yard 3rd & goal, from 1, Z. Evans carry for no gain 4th & goal, from 1, Kenny Jefferson carry for TD
8/22/2009 3:51p		1 O vs. 1 D Ball on 3 yard line going in 1st & goal, from 3, Gregory carry for gain of 1 yard 2nd & goal, from 2, Gregory carry for no gain 3rd & goal, from 2, Gregory carry for TD
8/22/2009 3:48p		3 O vs. 3 D Ball on own 20 yard line 1st & 10, Gregory carry for loss of 1 yard 2nd & 11, Clayton pass complete to Dunn for a gain of 6 yards 3rd & 5, Clayton pass complete to Ben Barber, gain of 8 and 1st down 1st & 10, Clayton pass to Nubian Peak, gain of 5 yards, tackled by Jayron Hosley 2nd & 5, FLAG. Holding offense. 2nd & 15, Z. Evans carry for gain of 13 yards Brian Saunders punt, returned 43 yards by Jayron Hosley
8/22/2009 3:42p		1 O vs. 1 D Ball on own 20 yard line 1st & 10, Gregory carry for gain of 7 yards 2nd & 3, FLAG, offsides defense. 1st down by penalty 1st & 10, Taylor pass complete to Dyrell Roberts for gain of 18 yards 1st & 10, Taylor pass complete to Marcus Davis for gain of 13 and a 1st down 1st & 10, Taylor pass to Gregory for gain of 5 yards 2nd & 5, Gregory carry for gain of 3 yards 3rd & 2, (2 O vs 2 D) Kenny Jefferson carry gain of 20 yards, 1st down 1st & 10, Thomas pass to Boykin, gain of 8 yards 2nd & 2, ball at 9 yard line going in, Z. Evans carry for no gain 3rd & 2, Jefferson carry for no gain 4th & 2, Thomas pass thrown away
8/22/2009 3:34p		2 O vs. 2 D Ball on 15 yard line going in 1st & 10, Clayton pass picked off by Cris Hill.
8/22/2009 3:32p		1 O vs. 1 D Ball at 15 yard line going in 1st & 10, Gregory carry gain of 15 yards, TD.
8/22/2009 3:31p		1 O vs. 2 D Ball on own 30, Ju-Ju at QB 1st & 10, Gregory carry for gain of 4 yards 2nd & 6, Gregory carry for gain of 3 3rd & 3, Gregory carry for gain of 4 1st down 1st & 10, Clayton pass to Boyce, gain of 25 yards. 1st down 1st & 10, ball on 31 going in, Flag - procedure 1st & 15, Clayton pass to Marcus Davis, gain of 8 yards 2nd & 7, Thomas pass to Sam Wheeler incomplete 3rd & 7, Logan Thomas keeps, gain of 8 yards, 1st down 1st & 10, ball at 19 going in, Z. Evans carry for gain of 2 yards, tackled by Davon Morgan 2nd & 8, FLAG, offsides defense 2nd & 3, Thomas pass deflected, picked out of the air by Barquell Rivers, Rivers returns 38 yards
8/22/2009 3:22p		1 O vs 2 D Ball on 5 yard line going in 1st & goal, from 5, Greg Boone carry for no gain, tackled by Steven Friday 2nd & goal, from 5, Ryan Williams on carry, TD.
8/22/2009 3:20p		3 O vs. 3 D 5 yard line going in 1st & goal, from 5, Gregory carry for gain of 1 yard. Tackled by Antone Exum 2nd & goal, from 4, Thomas keeps, tackled by Matt Reidy and Quillie Odom, no gain 3rd & goal, from 4, Thomas keeps, gain of 2
8/22/2009 3:16p		3 O vs. 3 D Ball on 50 yard line 1st & 10, Thomas pass to DJ Cole - incomplete 2nd & 10, Gregory carry for gain of 3 yards 3rd & 7, Thomas pass to Austin Fuller incomplete Brian Saunders punt blocked by Matt Reidy
8/22/2009 3:13p		2 O vs. 1 D Ball on 30 going in 1st & 10, Z. Evans carry gain of 4 2nd & 6, Z. Evans carry, tackled by Graves for loss of 1 yard 3rd & 7, Clayton keeps for gain of 5 yards 38 yard rield goal attempt by Cody Journell - good.
8/22/2009 3:10p		3 O vs 3 D Ball on own 45 yard line 1st & 10, Evans tackled in backfield, loss of 3 yards 2nd & 13, (1st O comes in vs. 2 D) Taylor pass to D. Roberts, gain of 13 3rd & 6, Taylor pass complete to Ryan Williams, gain of 5 yards 4th & 1, Kenny Younger, gain of 1 and 1st down 1st & 10, ball on 40 going in, Taylor sacked, loss of 3 2nd & 13, Taylor scramble, gain of 1 3rd & 12, Taylor complete to Andre Smith, gain of 13, 1st down 1st & 10, (Ju-Ju back in at QB), Z. Evans carry loss of 1 yard. Tackled by J. Worilds 2nd & 11, Clayton pass batted down by Virgil 3rd & 11, Clayton sacked by D. Morgan and Worilds. Loss of 9 Brent Bowden punt into end zone for touchback
8/22/2009 3:01p		3 O vs. 3 D Ball on 50 yard line 1st & 10, Z. Evans carry for gain of 6 yards. Holding, offense 1st & 20, Clayton pass to Austin Fuller, incomplete 2nd & 20, Clayton pass complete to Dunn. Gain of 5 yards 3rd & 15, Clayton sacked by Quillie Odom. Loss of 4 yards. Holding offense Brent Bowden punt - 39 yards, Ryan Williams breaks 3 tackles, returns 10 yards
8/22/2009 2:55p		2 O vs. 1 D Ball on 5 yard line going in 1st & goal, from 5 - Gregory carry for no gain. Stopped by Virgil 2nd & goal, from 5 - false start 2nd & goal, from 11 - Gregory carry for no gain. Tackled Graves and Thompson 3rd & goal, from 11 - pass to the enc zone incomplete 28 yard field goal attempt by Chris Hazley - good
8/22/2009 2:52p		1 O vs. 2 D Ball on 50 yard line 1st & 10, Williams carry for gain of 6 yds. Tackled by Lyndell Gibson 2nd & 4, Williams carry - gain of 8, 1st down 1st & 10, Taylor pass to Boyce, gain of 11, 1st down 1st & 10, Logan Thomas sacked by Cordarrow Thompson and John Graves. Loss of 6 yards 2nd & 16, encroachment defense 2nd & 11, Gregory carry for gain of 2 yards 3rd & 9, Logan Thomas carry for 5 yards 31 yard field goal attempt by Matt Waldron - good
8/22/2009 2:45p		1 O vs. 2 D Ball on 30 going in 1st & 10, Taylor pass to J. Boykin - incomplete 2nd & 10, Taylor pass to end zone to Danny Coale, knocked away by Eddie Whitley 3rd & 10, Tyrod scrambles for 4 yards 43 yard field goal attempt by Matt Waldron - good
8/22/2009 2:41p		3 O vs. 3 D 1st & 10, Gregory carry for no gain. Tackled by Kwamaine Battle. 2nd & 10, Thomas pass incomplete. Holding - offense. 2nd & 20, Thomas pass to R. Dunn incomplete. Punt on 3rd down - Brent Bowden 45 yard punt, returned 5 yards by Ryan Williams
8/22/2009 2:38p		3 O vs. 3 D 1st & 10, at 10 yard line going in. Z. Evans carry - gain 1 yd. 2nd & goal from 9 yard line. Logan Thomas pass to Randall Dunn in end zone, dropped. Offensive pass int on play. 2nd & goal from the 24 yard line. Thomas pass to DJ Coles incomplete. 3nd & goal from 24 yard line. Tony Gregory on carry - gain of 8 yards 33 yd field goal attempt by Matt Waldron - good.
8/22/2009 2:33p		2 O vs 1 D 1st & 10, Clayton completes pass to Brandon Dillard - 7 yds. 2nd & 3, Z. Evans carry - 2 yds. 3rd & 1, Z. Evans fumble caused by C. Thompson, Cody Grimm recovers and returns 20 yds.
8/22/2009 2:30p		1 O vs. 2 D 1st & 10,Ryan Williams carry - no gain, Cam Martin on the tackle. 2nd & 10, Zach Evans carry - 16 yd gain. First down. 1st & 10, Taylor pass complete to Danny Coale, gain of 5 yds. 2nd & 3, Tony Gregory on carry, stopped in backfield by Cordarrow Thompson, loss of 5 yds. 3rd & 9, Ju-Ju Clayton pass to Zach Evans incomplete. 31 yard field goal attempt by Matt Waldron - good.
8/22/2009 2:25p		WELCOME TO STADIUM SCRIMMAGE #2, LIVE FROM BLACKSBURG 1 O vs. 2 D Tyrod Taylor sacked by Eddie Whitley Ryan Williams carry - gain of 4 yds Taylor pass to Greg Boone - Incomplete, broken up Steven Friday Brent Bowden - punt 35 yds
8/22/2009 10:25a		Tech will be without TE Eric Martin, RB's David Wilson and Josh Oglesby for today's 2:30 scrimmage. Both Oglesby and Wilson are expected to return to practice on Monday.
8/21/2009 4:04p		Coach Beamer would like to pass along his thanks to David McKee and The Marching Virginians for attending the scrimmage tomorrow.
8/21/2009 2:15p		Heavy Lifters: The Virginia Tech players and coaches spent Friday morning helping students move into their campus dorm rooms. The players were paired with the assistant coaches and worked up and down Washington Street offering their fellow students assistance. Coach Beamer said "this is just another way of us saying 'we're all in this together.' Our students give a lot of support to our players and our program, and this is a chance for us to return some of that support." It's not hard finding the players, they're decked out in their maroon and orange tie-dyed t-shirts.
8/21/2009 10:22a		Jersey Auction 2009 update: all winners will be notified Sunday, 8/23/09, at the earliest. No need to email us, if you're a winner, we'll get in touch with you! Thanks!
8/16/2009 3:52p		As expected, it looks like David Wilson has suffered a shoulder sprain. Wilson is expected to practice, but not participate in contact until later in the week.
8/16/2009 1:55p		Profanity Becomes Pricey at Practice: If you attended yesterday’s Scrimmage at Lane Stadium, did you happen to pay attention to the coaches communicating with their players? Notice anything different? Well, just like the other practices this preseason, the Hokies went through the entire workout without a single slip-of-the-tongue. No profanity. Not a single s%&# or f&$#. And, it’s by design. Frank Beamer is now levying fines on any member of his staff who is caught using potty-mouth (improper language) while on the job, especially while in the company of the players. The fines are, $10, $20 and $50. So far, Beamer has levied three fines. Two for $10, and one for $50. “It’s just simply trying to do things the right way,” says Frank Beamer. “We’re supposed to be setting the example for our players here at Virginia Tech and if we, as coaches, make a conscious effort to try and always conduct ourselves professionally, I hope our players will see that and follow along. Also, we have accountability in this program. I personally don’t like to hear profanity and since we’re all college graduates on this staff, I’m confident we can come up with more suitable terms to communicate with. Bottom line, the football field is our workplace, our job, and just like at any other working environment, you want that to be as professional as possible. It’s something that happens rarely (profanity), but I’ve drawn attention to it because I’d like for it not to happen at all.”
8/15/2009 5:03p		Logan Thomas intercepted in the end zone by Martin Scales.
8/15/2009 4:52p		Logan Thomas looks very poised in the pocket. He also shows a big arm hitting deep seam routes down the field.
8/15/2009 4:49p		Matt Waldron connects on 25 yd fg.
8/15/2009 4:44p		David Wilson has pads off. Concerned about left shoulder.
8/15/2009 4:37p		Logan Thomas 30 yd td pass to Nubian Peak.
8/15/2009 4:36p		Cody Journell misses 33 yd fg.
8/15/2009 4:28p		Matt Waldron connects on 28 yd fg.
8/15/2009 4:24p		Matt Waldron connects on 46 yd fg.
8/15/2009 4:18p		Antone Exum with big hit on Tony Gregory, loss of 2 on carry.
8/15/2009 4:10p		Ryan Williams gains 20 yds on carry down to 8 yd line. Coach Beamer calls for fg, Matt Waldron good from 25 yds.
8/15/2009 4:06p		Matt Waldron, 55 yd fg attempt - miss left.
8/15/2009 4:04p		Darren Evans is one tough young! Surgery yesterday to repair a torn ACL, today he's at the scrimmage on crutches supporting his teammates.
8/15/2009 3:59p		Matt Waldron hits 42 yard FG.
8/15/2009 3:56p		Ryan Williams fields punt at 18 - returns it 82 yards for TD.
8/15/2009 3:53p		Live scrimmage highlights: Red Zone - Tyrod Taylor intercepted by Lyndell Gibson.
8/15/2009 11:22a		Scrimmage #1, Practice #10, August 15, 2009, Pre-Season 3:15 FLEX 3:25 CENTRAL 3:28 SPECIALTY Block Kicks, Punts, K.O. 3:33 K.O. vs. K.O. Return 3:35 INDIVIDUAL 3:45 SCRIMMAGE PLAYS 6 PLAYS 2 OFF vs. 1 DEF, ball starts -20 6 PLAYS 1 OFF vs. 2 DEF, ball starts +20 6 PLAYS 3 OFF vs. 3 DEF, ball starts -30 6 PLAYS 2 OFF vs. 1 DEF, ball starts +30 6 PLAYS 1 OFF vs. 2 DEF, ball starts -35 6 PLAYS 3 OFF vs. 3 DEF, ball starts +35 6 PLAYS 1 OFF vs. 1 DEF, ball starts 50 6 PLAYS 2 OFF vs. 2 DEF 6 PLAYS 3 OFF vs. 3 DEF 6 PLAYS 2 OFF vs. 2 DEF 6 PLAYS 3 OFF vs. 3 DEF 6 PLAYS 2 OFF vs. 2 DEF 6 PLAYS 3 OFF vs. 3 DEF 78 PLAYS Conditioning - 6 Perfect 40's 6 F.G. - where they occur 4 Pride vs. Pride and Joy - where they occur Offense gets to 8 yard line - Field Goal
8/15/2009 8:27a		The Hokies will conduct a 78-play scrimmage this afternoon on Worsham Field. Bruce Taylor, David Wang, Josh Eadie and Eric Martin will not participate in todays practice. The 13-series scrimmage will include at least 6 field goal attempts as Coach Beamer makes attempts to make a decision on his kicker. This morning, the teams educational meeting will be conducted by Michael Davis of the New York Jets. Davis will explain what NFL teams look for, off the field, in evaluating players.
8/14/2009 7:07p		The Hokies made it through practice number #9 with only one minor injury. Head Trainer Mike Goforth said that linebacker Bruce Taylor will be questionable for tomorrows scrimmage. Tonight, in the Hokies daily educational meeting, Carl Francis, from the NFL Players Association, will address the team. Francis' message will include, both seeking your degree and information on player agents. Tomorrow's scrimmage will be the first practice held on Worsham Field this fall.
8/14/2009 3:29p		Evans undergoes successful knee surgery: Virginia Tech tailback Darren Evans underwent successful knee surgery Friday afternoon at Montgomery Regional Hospital in Blacksburg. According to head athletic trainer Mike Goforth, Evans had the ACL in his left knee repaired and the lateral meniscus was trimmed. Dr. Marc Siegel performed the surgery. Evans, a redshirt sophomore from Indianapolis, Ind., will begin rehab immediately and is expected to be back full for spring practice.
8/14/2009 1:38p		Frank Beamer statement on Michael Vick: "I believe Michael Vick understands very clearly the wrong that he did, and is very intent on making things right. I think that this is an opportunity for him to help a lot of people to not go down the same path that he went down. I look forward to watching the Eagles this season."
8/14/2009 9:58a		As the Hokies prepare for practice number #9 today, there has been one move on the depth chart. Xavier Boyce has moved in front of Jarrett Boykin at one of the receiver spots. Only two players are expected to miss tomorrows scrimmage. Both David Wang and Eric Martin will be listed as "limited." TE George George, from Salem, Virginia, has replaced Darren Evans on the 105 man roster.
8/13/2009 6:23p		Practice number #8 just concluded and it was great to have Darren Evans back out at practice, smiling and being a part of our team. He will be in our thoughts as he undergoes surgery tomorrow (Friday).
8/13/2009 11:15a		In a couple depth chart moves today, Cam Martin, Lorenzo Williams and Greg Boone are all expected to return to practice. Logan Thomas has move into a second team tie with JuJu Clayton at the quarterback spot.
8/12/2009 1:39p		Head Coach Frank Beamer had this to say about Darren Evans this afternoon: "It breaks your heart that Darren suffered this injury. He has worked so hard this off season and he was ready to accomplish a great deal this year. This is a tough blow, for both Darren and our football team. He is a valuable individual who leads by example and is respected by his teammates and coaches. Every year you have setbacks, and it's important that our football team become closer than ever. We need to support Josh (Oglesby), Ryan (Williams) and David (Wilson). I know they will give our team their very best. And, I know that Darren will come back from this injury stronger and better then ever."
8/12/2009 1:23p		In an attempt to add depth to the tailback position, Tony Gregory was moved from receiver to running back this morning. Gregory worked at tailback at times this spring before being moved to WR for fall camp.
8/11/2009 7:03p		Darren Evans was unable to complete this evening's practice due to continuing knee issues. He was removed from practice and taken to the training room for further evaluation by the medical staff. HokieSports.com is preparing an official release concerning his status. That release should be posted shortly.
8/11/2009 8:18a		Here's our set of photos from Media Day:Click here and enjoy!
8/10/2009 7:01p		Can the Hokies sing? You bet they can. Today the Tech Football Team sang their birthday wishes to Mr. Wes Worsham before today's practice. Three players practiced in blue(limited)today. Darren Evans, Cam Martin and Lorenzo Williams. There were a couple depth chart moves, one on each side of the ball prior to today's practice number 5.
8/8/2009 3:40p		Funny moment: The Virginia Tech video department was busy recording “head shots” of the players introducing themselves and stating their hometowns to be used this fall on the videoboard in Lane Stadium. The defensive linemen were taking their turn when somebody said, “Whoa, stop, stop...let’s do that again.” Cordarrow Thompson, introduced himself as “Taco Thompson.” He was told that Coach Beamer probably wouldn’t like that, so go ahead and use his name, not his nickname. Thompson fired back, “Nobody calls me Cordarrow, everybody calls me Taco. Why can’t I say Taco? Coach Beamer doesn’t even call me Cordarrow. He calls me Taco all the time.” The video staff found a compromise and allowed Thompson two tapings, one with Cordarrow and one with Taco. It’ll be interesting to see which one pops up this fall.
8/8/2009 3:30p		The Hokies need help at defensive end, and Chris Drager was originally recruited to play that position coming out of high school. Even though Drager was one of the top tight ends this past spring, Tech is more than stocked at that position with: Greg Boone, Andre Smith, Sam Wheeler, Eric Martin, Randall Dunn, Rob Staunton and Prince Parker. Parker has really changed his body, packing on 25 pounds of solid muscle since the spring.
8/8/2009 3:24p		Add a name to the BRRRRRUUUUUCCCCCEEEEE list! We already told you that following this afternoon’s practice, Frank Beamer, Dr. Charles Steger, Jim Weaver, Billy Hite and Lester Karlin are flying to Canton, Ohio for Bruce Smith’s induction festivities at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Well, there’s one more name to add to the travel party, Ray Smoot. Sorry about the oversight Mr. Smoot!
8/8/2009 3:04p		Charley Wiles tells us that he’s “very impressed” with Steven Friday at defensive end. “Friday is up over 240 pounds and I’m really liking what I’m seeing in him. He has some strength to go along with that quickness.” Wiles also says that Jason Worilds “is good to go” following shoulder issues. “Jason looks great,” continues Wiles, “you give me him, Nekos Brown, Chris Drager and now Steven Friday, and I think we have something to work with at the end spot.”
8/8/2009 3:00p		Tech offensive line coach, Curt Newsome, has dropped 20 pounds since undergoing double bypass heart surgery. Curt says he’s “slowly but surely getting his energy and stamina back.” Newsome also says he’s “pacing” himself during these early practices. He says not to worry about him, he’s monitoring his blood pressure and taking all necessary precautions.
8/8/2009 2:52p		David Wilson is the reigning prep National Champion in the triple jump. That alone, tells you that he has some power in those legs. He certainly displayed that power and athleticism to the media this afternoon. Three players were goofing around and they lined up and did a standing back flip (Greg Boone was included in this high flying trio and watching his big body do a back flip was impressive in and of itself). David Wilson watched the threesome and then said “watch this” as he showed off his back flip that had much more height than the others. With that, an impressed observer asked Wilson, “how many of those can you do in a row?” To which Wilson replied, “I don’t know, let’s see.” And off Wilson went, toes over head, for EIGHT consecutive back flips without his hands ever touching the ground. Simply amazing! We caught Wilson’s flips on video and we’re editing it now and we’ll have it on BeamerVision as soon as it’s ready so you can see David in action for yourself. We were told that Wilson “is a freakish athlete,” when he was being recruited and now we’re starting to see for ourselves that he is indeed “freakish!”
8/8/2009 2:38p		A couple of injury items from Media Day: Both Darren Evans and Sergio Render will miss this evening’s practice. Evans, stepped on an ankle yesterday and went down with what everyone, at the time, thought was a torn ACL. Fortunately, it’s a knee sprain and not a tear. Evans says the knee “is sore” and projects he’ll be back in action next week. Sergio Render is nursing a sore lower back. He too, says he should be fine by next week.
8/8/2009 2:35p		Here's our first set of photos from day 1 of August pre-season practice:Click here and enjoy!
8/7/2009 3:29p		BBBBRRRRUUUUUUUCCCCCCCCEEEEE....goes in the Pro Football Hall of Fame tomorrow! Of course we're talking about former Virginia Tech and NFL great Bruce Smith. Frank Beamer, Charles Steger, Jim Weaver, Billy Hite and Lester Karlin will all be in Canton, Ohio for the enshrinement ceremony.
8/5/2009 6:53p		As the players checked in today with trainers Mike Goforth and Keith Doolan their height and weight were updated. Heaviest Hokie-Vinston Painter 322 lbs. Lightest Hokie-Jayron Hosley 170 lbs Tallest Hokie-Michael Via 6'7" Shortest Hokie-James Hopper 5'8.5" A total of 10 players weighed 300 lbs or more and 24 Hokies stand 6'4" or taller.
8/5/2009 6:17p		Tech players had to check in today prior to 6:30 PM. All 105 players are now on campus and making preparation for their first team meeting this evening.
8/5/2009 10:35a		2009 Strength and Conditioning Awards 2009 Iron Man Competition Results Overall Team Champion - Danny Coale Line of Scrimmage Group Champion - Blake DeChristopher Combo Group Champion - Jake Johnson Super Iron Hokie Award: Blake DeChristopher, Josh Oglesby, Joey Phillips, Danny Coale, Marcus Davis, Tyrod Taylor, Demetrius Taylor, Jake Johnson, Barquell Rivers, Ron Cooper, Dorian Porch Iron Hokie Award: Vinston Painter, Ed Wang, Darren Evans, Jarrett Boykin, Kwamaine Battle, Steven Friday, Cody Grimm, Stephan Virgil Hokie Award: Jaymes Brooks, Beau Warren, Zac Evans, John Graves, Nekos Brown, Bruce Taylor, Lyndell Gibson, Mark Muncey, Rashad Carmichael, Davon Morgan Orange Award: Austin Fuller, Ju-Ju Clayton, Antoine Hopkins, Dwight Tucker, Zach Luckett, Eddie Whitley Maroon Award: Sam Wheeler, Xavier Boyce, Isaiah Hamlette, Justin Myer
8/4/2009 12:44p		Official word from Coach Beamer: VT football will have three (3) open scrimmages for fans to attend. No video taping devices of any kind are allowed inside Lane Stadium during these scrimmages. The open scrimmage dates and times are as follows: Saturday, Aug. 15th, 3:15 - 5:30 pm Saturday, Aug. 22nd, 2:00 - 4:15 pm (The Marching Virginians will also be there to play!) Wednesday, Aug 26th, 4:45 - 7:00 pm All three open scrimmages will be in Lane Stadium, and Coach Beamer encourages fans to attend, but please respect the policy of no video taping devices of any kind. Thank you! All other Virginia Tech practices are closed to the public. Coach Beamer wishes to thank the Marching Virginians for planning on playing at the scrimmage on 8/22! Thanks, MVs, you're the best!
8/4/2009 12:24p		Freshman Tyrel Wilson will not be participating in preseason camp which opens on Thursday. Wilson suffered a shoulder injury that may require surgery. Fullback Josh Call will replace Wilson on Tech's 105 player roster for camp.
8/4/2009 8:39a		The players don't officially report until tomorrow (Wed, August 5th) at 6:30pm. However, Frank Beamer and his staff are already hard at work. The coaches held organizational meetings all day Monday, and again today. Yesterday, the staff covered Kicking, Pride, Pride & Joy, Kickoff return, Onside prevent, Field Goal block and Field Goal protection. Today, the staff breaks into offense and defense and meets for the entire day. Tomorrow, more meetings for the staff as the players report that evening. On Thursday, the players join the meetings and then the Hokies hold their first official practice that afternoon.
8/4/2009 7:52a		All Virginia Tech football practices are closed to the public as a standing rule. In regards to announced scrimmages, Coach Beamer will make the decision on opening those or not, and it will be announced both here and on Hokiesports.com at that time. Thanks for your compliance.
8/3/2009 8:17p		Saturday, August 8th is Virginia Tech Football's annual Team Photo and Media Day, and it means a full, long day for the team. Here's a look at the schedule for VT Media Day. BeamerBall.com will be on hand for full coverage, interviews, photos, and more. Stay tuned for that. 8:00 am - Media Training 8:45 - 9:45 am -Individual Meetings 10:00 am - Coaching Staff Brunch with the Media 11:00 am - Coach Beamer Addresses Media and Takes Questions 11:30 am - Tyrod Taylor Addresses Media and Takes Questions 12:00 pm - 2009 Hokie Team Photo, Lane Stadium 1:00 pm - Media Interviews with Coaches and Players End 1:30 pm - Individual Position Meetings 2:15 - 4:15 pm - PRACTICE # 3 (Helmets & Shoulder Pads), Closed to the Public
8/3/2009 8:04p		Wednesday, August 5th marks the date summer "voluntary" activities end, and mandatory team participation begins for pre-season practice. On Wednesday, all players (varsity upperclassmen and frosh) are required to report by 6:30 pm. The team will then have an "Organizational Meeting" with Coach Beamer at 8 pm. BeamerBall.com will attempt to have some video of what Coach Beamer has to say to the team. Stay tuned for that. Day 1 of August pre-season practice begins on Thursday, August 6th at 4 pm. Practice is closed to the public. The team will begin NCAA mandated "acclimation" practices in helmets, shorts, and practice jerseys over "shells," which are lighter-weight foam shoulder pads. Practice #3 and #4 on Saturday and Sunday, will see the team switch to full game shoulder pads. Monday's practice #5 will be the first day in full pads.
8/1/2009 9:01a		FINAL SET TESTING NUMBERS AND TOP PERFORMERS Varsity Squad Front Squat Top Performers Blake DeChristopher - 470 lbs Demetrius Taylor - 465 lbs (DT Position Record) Kwamaine Battle - 455 lbs Kenny Jefferson - 450 lbs Jake Johnson - 435 lbs Barquell Rivers - 430 lbs Darren Evans - 430 lbs Danny Coale - 425 lbs (WR Position Record) Tyrod Taylor - 400 lbs (QB Position Record) Varsity Squad 10 Yard Dash Top Performers Marcus Davis - 1.59 seconds Danny Coale - 1.65 seconds Brandon Dillard - 1.69 seconds Dyrell Roberts - 1.69 seconds Kam Chancellor - 1.69 seconds Varsity Squad Bench Press Top Performers Demetrius Taylor - 475 lbs (DT Position Record, 7th All Time School Record) Blake DeChristopher - 435 lbs Sergio Render - 430 lbs Greg Nosal - 430 lbs Vinston Painter - 430 lbs Steven Friday - 425 lbs Jake Johnson - 425 lbs (Inside LB Position Record)
7/31/2009 10:35a		Trainer Mike Goforth has listed both Kenny Lewis and Duan Perez-Means as inactive for the beginning of pre-season camp. Both players are expected to undergo surgery for injuries. Perez-Means who has a shoulder injury, will now enroll in January.
7/30/2009 8:44p		Looks like there may be a few changes to the 105 camp roster. A couple of injuries may require surgery for some Hokies. Trainer Mike Goforth will have a full report tomorrow morning.
7/29/2009 2:53p		We have listed the top 5 performers for the freshmen in the 40 yard dash. 6-10 in the 40 times are equally as impressive: 6. Antone Exum 4.47 7. James Hopper 4.48 8. Logan Thomas 4.58 9. James Gayle 4.62 10. Telvion Clark 4.64 MORE TESTING NUMBERS Freshman 40 Yard Dash Top Performers 1. David Wilson - 4.33 2. D.J. Coles - 4.44 3. Jerrodd Williams - 4.44 4. Jayron Hosley - 4.45 5. Nubian Peak - 4.45 6. Antone Exum 4.47 7. James Hopper 4.48 8. Logan Thomas 4.58 9. James Gayle 4.62 10. Telvion Clark 4.64 Freshman Bench Press Top Performers 1. David Wang - 400 lbs 2. Telvion Clark - 370 lbs 3. Andrew Miller - 360 lbs 4. James Gayle - 350 lbs 5. J.R. Collins - 330 lbs Varsity Team Vertical Jump Top Performers 1. Marcus Davis - 42.5" 2. Dorian Porch - 41" 3. Patrick Terry - 40.5" 4. Ron Cooper - 40.5" 5. Tyrod Taylor - 38.5"
7/24/2009 11:36a		More impressive numbers coming out of summer II workout sessions Power Clean Lift Dr. "Iron" Mike Gentry and the Strength and Conditioning department tested the team today on the Power Clean lift, and were again thrilled with some great numbers! Top TEN Power Clean Maxes 1. Demetrius Taylor - 380 lbs, 6th All-Time Program Record 2. Jake Johnson - 373 lbs, New Linebacker Position Record, 8th All-Time Program 3. Greg Nosal - 370 lbs, Offensive Tackle Position Record, 9th All-Time Program 4. Kwamaine Battle - 356 lbs 5. James Brooks - 356 lbs 6. Barquell Rivers - 351 lbs 7. Kam Chancellor - 346 lbs, Free Safety Position Record 8. Lorenzo Williams - 336 lbs 9. Jarrett Boykin - 336 lbs, Wide Receiver Position Record 10. Beau Warren - 336lbs
7/24/2009 11:34a		Impressive Push Jerk Numbers Dr. "Iron" Mike Gentry and the Strength and Conditioning department tested the team today on the Push Jerk lift, and were thrilled with some great numbers! Top Five Push Jerk Maxes 1. Demetrius Taylor - 410 lbs. #1 All-Time School Record, Defensive Tackle Position Record 2. Blake DeChristopher - 395 lbs. 6th Best All-Time School, Offensive Tackle Position Record 3. Ed Wang - 390 lbs. 8th Best All-Time School 4. Kenny Jefferson - 380 lbs. 5. Barquell Rivers - 375 lbs., Inside Linebacker Position Record
7/7/2009 12:32p		Coach Beamer will hold a meeting this afternoon to welcome his team back for the second session of summer school. 60 days from today, the Hokies will be playing the University of Alabama in Atlanta. All of the scholarship team members will be enrolled in summer school. They will be joined by a number of walk ons, who will be competing for the pre season roster spots. NCAA rules allow 105 players to begin practice on August 6. 15 additional players can be added to the roster when fall semester begins August 24. In some roster moves, two players will not be back with the Hokies this fall. Both William Alvarez and Khalil Latif have left the program. In addition, Zach Luckett will join the team as a walk on defensive player, working at the whip position.
7/6/2009 9:22p		Looking for that rare combination of “power” and “speed”? Well, we spoke with David Wilson this afternoon and he told us that he was timed at 4.31 in his last forty, and, benches 315 pounds, and squats.....ready?.....okay, here goes....squats 605! Six hundred five pounds!! No wonder he’s the National Champion in the triple jump! Wilson also tells us that he does NOT want to redshirt and will work hard to get himself “in the mix” for this fall. Wilson also says that it was “an honor” to represent his country in the Junior World’s. He said that had he not earned a D-1A scholarship to play football, he would have followed his older brother’s footsteps and joined the Navy “to serve the country.” Along with being named captain for Team USA, Wilson was also selected as the tournaments overall MVP!
7/6/2009 2:12p		When the second session of summer school begins tomorrow, 23 new Hokies will be working out with the team.(7 are currently attending the VHSL All Star Game). Jack Tyler, Jerome Williams and Ethan Dickerson joined Darian Fischer, Will Cole and Nick Sheehan as invited walk ons. Both David Wilson and Tariq Edwards returned from their All Star game in time for today's freshmen orientation meeting. Tech will hold it's first team meeting tomorrow afternoon.
7/1/2009 10:56a		Great news today, D.J. Coles will be enrolling for second summer session. We are looking forward to D.J. joining our incoming freshmen class next week.
6/30/2009 11:57a		The following incoming freshman players are set to enroll for Virginia Tech’s second summer session, beginning Tuesday, July 7th: Telvion Clark, D.J. Coles, J.R. Collins, Tariq Edwards, Antone Exum, James Gayle, James Hopper, Jayron Hosley, Cody Journell, Andrew Miller, Nubian Peak, Duan Perez-Means, Logan Thomas, David Wang, Jerrodd Williams, David Wilson, Tyrel Wilson, Will Cole, Darian Fisher, Jack Tyler, and Nick Sheehan. In addition to the freshmen, all upperclassmen on the team will also be enrolling for Summer II. The following freshmen players will also be participating in the Virginia High School Coaches Association All-Star football game on Friday night, July 10th at 7:00 pm at Darling Stadium in Hampton, Virginia: Antone Exum, James Gayle, Cody Journell, Andrew Miller, Duan Perez-Means, Logan Thomas, and Tyrel Wilson. The report date for the entire team for pre-season practice to begin is Wednesday, August 5th. All football players are required to report on this date.
6/23/2009 1:08p		Virginia Tech has two incoming freshmen participating in the upcoming International Federation of American Football (IFAF) Junior World Championship in Canton, Ohio, from June 27 to July 5. They are David Wilson (Danville, VA) and Tariq Edwards (Marlboro, SC). And, for those who know Wilson and his character and leadership abilities, it should come as no surprise that he has been selected Team Captain for USA Football, and, will carry the U.S. flag to lead the Americans onto the field. Good luck guys!
6/6/2009 3:04p		Just finished up the first of our one day camps and had a great day. It was beautiful in Blacksburg and we had the turnout we expected. A number of our current players were on hand to watch the campers. I really enjoy having our current team members around the campers. I believe they serve as good role models and they are just a good group to have around. We had a few unexpected visitors that brought good news with them, I can not go into detail as per NCAA rules, but it was a great day. Two of our signees were on hand as well, both Logan Thomas and Nubian Peak were on campus today. Our coaches will get a few weeks off before we have our next camp July 11. In addition, some of our former players were here to watch the camp. Greg Shockley(VMI), Chris Malone and J.C. Price(JMU) and Kevin Lewis(Richmond) were on hand.
6/4/2009 11:47a		My staff informed me today, that someone is impersonating me on TWITTER. I looked at the site, and that is my name, and that is my picture, but those are not my comments....and that IS NOT my account. We will ask TWITTER to take that down, in that it is a misrepresentation and could prove to be harmful. The NCAA is very strict about the verbal and written communications of coaches. Someone who fraudulently impersonates me on TWITTER, could create a lot of headaches for our football program and our department. Have a great day.
5/27/2009 9:50a		Summer session #1 started Tuesday, May 26th, and 59 Virginia Tech football players are enrolled for classes. They are: Ben Barber, Kwamaine Battle, Nick Becton, Greg Boone, Brent Bowden, Xavier Boyce, Jarrett Boykin, Jaymes Brooks, Rashad Carmichael, JuJu Clayton, Danny Coale, Marcus Davis, Blake DeChristopher, Brandon Dillard, Chris Drager, Randall Dunn, Darren Evans, Zac Evans, Steven Friday, Bo Gentry, Lyndell Gibson, Richard Graham, John Graves, Tony Gregory, Cody Grimm, Isaiah Hamlette, Antoine Hopkins, Kenny Jefferson, Jake Johnson, Joe Jones, Andrew Lanier, Kenny Lewis, Cam Martin, Eric Martin, Davon Morgan, Greg Nosal, Quillie Odom, Josh Oglesby, Vinston Painter, Dorian Porch, Joey Phillips, Courtney Prince, Sergio Render, Barquell Rivers, Andre Smith, Jacob Sykes, Bruce Taylor, Tyrod Taylor, Patrick Terry, Cordarrow Thompson, Dwight Tucker, Alonzo Tweedy, Michael Via, Stephan Virgil, Ed Wang, Beau Warren, Sam Wheeler, Eddie Whitley, Lorenzo Williams, and Jason Worilds. The remainder of the players are either at home for Summer session I, or are in Blacksburg but not enrolled in summer classes. The players who stay in Blacksburg for the summer, may work out on a voluntary basis in the weight room, and in conditioning drills with Asst. A.D. for Strength and Athletic Performance Dr. "Iron" Mike Gentry. The players may also conduct their own player organized non-contact football drills. However, no members of the football coaching staff are allowed to participate or observe these drills. Summer session II begins July 7th. In past summers, the majority of the team usually enrolls for summer II, as well as many of the incoming freshman signees from the recruit class. We'll have an update on those numbers and names later this summer. NCAA rules and regulations prohibit BeamerBall.com from covering or "publicizing" these player activities due to the voluntary nature of participation.
5/19/2009 10:11a		It's the off-season, Spring semester is done, graduation has come and gone, and many players are taking some well-deserved time off. However, some players (and coaches too) still want to be involved in the Herma's Readers project! This week, the following players and coaches are heading out to elementary schools to read to the children: Tony Gregory - Kempsville Elementary, Eric Martin - King Elementary, Joey Phillips - Harding Avenue Elementary, Tim Richardson - Forrest Elementary, Tyrod Taylor - Armstrong Elementary, Michael Via - Reedy Fork Elementary, Marcus Davis - Birdneck Elementary, George George - West Salem Elementary, Jaymes Brooks - R.O.Nelson Elementary, Chris Drager - McClelland Elementary, Coach Jim Cavanaugh - Tussing Elementary A special thank you to all for giving your time to such a worthy project!
5/14/2009 12:20p		Coach Beamer and his 2009 VT Recruit Signing Class: Coach Beamer was proud to host a large portion of his 2009 Virginia Tech recruit signing class at the Spring Game! Left to right: James Hopper, Cody Journell, Tariq Edwards, Jerrodd Williams, James Gayle, Tyrell Wilson, Coach Beamer, Logan Thomas (behind Coach Beamer), Telvion Clark, D.J. Coles, Antone Exum, Duan Perez-Means, Nic Sheehan, Theron Norman, David Wang, Darrian Fisher, and Nubian Peak. Small size photo: Photo One, Larger size photo: Photo Two, Largest photo: Photo Three Additionally, Coach Beamer with 2009 signee running back David Wilson at the Spring Game: Photo Coach Beamer with 2009 signee offensive lineman Andrew Miller at the Spring Game: Photo
5/14/2009 12:00p		Coach Beamer and his NFL and CFL Hokie Alumni: Coach Beamer was proud to host numerous former VT players who now pick up either NFL or CFL paychecks, at VT's Spring Game! Left to right: Chris Ellis, Vince Hall, Carlton Powell, Brandon Flowers, Willie Pile, Eddie Royal, Jason Murphy, Mike Imoh, Justin Harper, Coach Beamer, Andre Davis, Brandon Frye, Pierson Priloeau (and son), Jake Grove, Eric Green, DeAngelo Hall, and Will Montgomery. Small size photo: Photo One, Larger size photo: Photo Two, Largest photo: Photo Three
5/14/2009 11:58a		We've posted 71 photos from the Spring Game and various activities! Click here for all the Spring Game Photos and Enjoy!!
5/14/2009 11:57a		Here's a free version of our recent interview with former VT great Corey Moore. Click here and enjoy!
5/14/2009 11:53a		The 2009 Spring Practice Awards Are Announced: Click HERE for the 2009 Spring Practice Awards announced at the Spring Game on 4/25/09. Enjoy! Congratulations to all the winners on a job well done!
5/4/2009 1:46p		The Virginia Tech Athletic Department will hold their All Sports Banquet this evening. Receiving awards for the football team from this past season, will be the following: All Academic Team and Scholar Athlete of the Year Award-Chris Drager and Dustin Keys. Strength Award-Kenny Younger. Rookie of the Year Award-Darren Evans. Coaches Award-Cory Holt. Most Valuable Player Award-Orion Martin.
4/29/2009 3:50p		The Virginia Tech coaches completed their final personnel meeting earlier this afternoon. And, now the staff hits the road for spring recruiting. The Tech staff made one major move, involving redshirt sophomore, Chris Drager. Drager is switching from tight end to defensive end. Drager won the Coaches Award this spring for his exceptional play, and was listed as a co-starter at TE with senior Greg Boone. Chris is expected to compete with Nekos Brown and Jason Worilds at the defensive end position this summer. Worilds missed all of spring practice due to injury, while Brown was voted the Defensive MVP for the spring.
4/28/2009 3:41p		By popular requests from Hokie recruiting fans, we have been asked to identify all the 2009 recruits seen with Coach Beamer in the photo on the main free homepage of BeamerBall.com. They are, left to right: James Hopper, Cody Journell, Tariq Edwards, Jerrodd Williams, James Gayle, Tyrell Wilson, Coach Beamer, Logan Thomas (behind Coach Beamer), Telvion Clark, D.J. Coles, Antone Exum, Duan Perez-Means, Nic Sheehan, Theron Norman, David Wang, Darrian Fisher, and Nubian Peak. Also in attendance at the Spring Game, but unfortunately missed the photo, were 2009 signees David Wilson and Andrew Miller.
4/28/2009 3:24p		Another former Hokie is getting a shot at the NFL via Free Agency. Nick Marshman has been invited to join the Buffalo Bills for next week's mini-camp. Other Free Agents are: Sean Glennon (Vikings), Orion Martin (Dolphins) and Ryan Shuman (Packers).
4/25/2009 7:21p		How cool was that! Buffalo Bills defensive end Chris Ellis rolled into Blacksburg this weekend with tokens of appreciation. Ellis surprised Coach Beamer, Bud Foster, Charley Wiles, Jim Cavanaugh and John Ballein, when he gave each his Buffalo Bills jersey framed. “That was a very nice, and unexpected, gesture from Chris, “ says John Ballein. “I say it all the time. The further you get away from Coach Beamer, our fans and Virginia Tech, the more you appreciate your time here. Our goal is to make our NFL weekend even bigger and better next year. I really appreciate all the effort Bruce Garnes put into getting these players back on campus."
4/25/2009 7:11p		12 men in the huddle? It happened today. Just before kickoff, the medical staff decided to hold Darren Evans out of the Spring Game. But, that didn’t keep him off the field. With the game on the line, Evans joined the huddle in street clothes, to provide instructions to fill in, Tony Gregory. Gregory had worked exclusively at receiver all spring, but, was thrown into the mix at tailback for today’s game. Evans was literally on the field, showing Gregory how to line up.
4/25/2009 7:01p		It was a record setting crowd for the 2009 Spring Game. Over 41,000 turned out to support the Hokies! “Wow,” says Frank Beamer. “The fans were great, our NFL guys were with us, we had a ton of prospects on campus and it just couldn’t have gone any better. I really want to thank those fans. I’ve said it since day one and I mean it, we’re in this thing together and those fans continue to hold up their end of the bargain and we’re working as hard as we can to hold up ours. We accomplished a lot this spring, but there’s still a lot of work to do. I can promise you this, all those prospects saw those fans. All those prospects saw those NFL players back on campus. All those prospects saw the passion and how important it is. And, that’s why Virginia Tech is Virginia Tech. And I appreciate it.”
4/25/2009 1:11p		It's a gorgeous day here in Blacksburg! And, the campus is alive in anticipation of today's Spring Game. The staff is busy entertaining prosects. And, as the coaches work on the next round of Hokies, some former standouts (current NFL players) are in town in as well. Currently on campus are: Andre Davis (Texans), Chris Ellis (Bills), Brandon Flowers (Chiefs), Brandon Frye (Dolphins), Eric Green (Dolphins), Jake Grove (Dolphins), Vince Hall (Bills), Justin Harper (Ravens), DeAngelo Hall (Redskins), Mike Imoh (CFL), Jonathan Lewis (Jags), Will Montgomery (Redskins), Willie Pile (CFL), Carlton Powell (Broncos), Pierson Priloeau (Saints) and Eddie Royal (Broncos). Welcome home guys!
4/24/2009 11:54a		Head Athletic Trainer, Mike Goforth, has cleared both, Darren Evans and Ryan Williams for tomorrow's Spring Game.
4/23/2009 10:03a		It's going to be a big recruiting weekend in Blacksburg! The Hokies are expecting at least 60 prospects in town for Saturday's Spring Game.
4/23/2009 9:52a		Billy Hite was anxious to show off his talent and depth at tailback in Saturday’s Spring Game, but, things aren’t going according to plan. Kenny Lewis has been out the entire spring while recovering from Achilles surgery. Josh Oglesby is no longer available after spraining his left ankle. Oglesby is currently in a walking boot and on crutches. Darren Evans is questionable for Saturday’s action due to injuries to his ankle, knee and calf in his left leg. Ryan Williams has ligament damage to his hand, but is expected to see action. And, Zach Evans has an injured groin, but is expected to play. This is a perfect example of why you need extra depth at this position. Tailbacks take a pounding!
4/22/2009 6:10p		Virginia Tech just completed spring practice #13 with a mini-scrimmage in Lane Stadium/Worsham Field. Josh Oglesby suffered a sprained ankle that will cause him to miss the Spring Game this Saturday. Also, newly named #2 QB Ju-Ju Clayton hooked up with Marcus Davis on a touchdown pass to highlight the 2-minute portion of the scrimmage.
4/22/2009 11:27a		Virginia Tech defensive lineman Courtney Prince has unfortunately suffered an injury to his ACL. Head trainer Mike Goforth says the knee injury will require surgery. Goforth also reports a finger injury to running back Ryan Williams. Williams will miss today's practice (Wed 4/22), but, is expected to participate in Saturday's Spring Game.
4/20/2009 2:30p		The Virginia Tech coaches emerged from today’s staff meeting and have decided to elevate Ju-Ju Clayton to backup quarterback behind starter Tyrod Taylor. Clayton was competing with Marcus Davis for the #2 quarterback spot. Davis will work out at receiver for the final week of spring, allowing Taylor and Clayton to receive the majority of the snaps at quarterback. However, Davis has been instructed to spend the summer improving his arm strength, and, if that occurs, Tech will re-examine his possibilities at quarterback in August. “After what Marcus Davis showed in our last scrimmage,” says Frank Beamer, “it’s obvious that we need him on the field. Marcus is a tremendous athlete and we’re confident that he can help this football team in some capacity. This was a big move for our football program because Ju-Ju Clayton needs all the snaps he can get at quarterback, and, we need to find a place for a player like Marcus Davis to excel.” Also, Chris Drager is now listed as co-starter at tight end with Greg Boone.
4/18/2009 1:21p		Scrimmage Quick Thoughts: If anything, after the way Ju-Ju Clayton and Marcus Davis played, the choice of who the #2 quarterback will be behind Tyrod Taylor, may be more difficult than ever. Both Clayton and Davis had bright moments. Ryan Williams and Dyrell Roberts look to be the leaders as punt and kickoff returners. Xavier Boyce continues to progress after missing last season because of knee surgery. He was a favorite target today of Tyrod Taylor. Matt Waldron continues to solidify himself as Tech's field goal kicker.
4/18/2009 10:17a		Bruce Arians, Offensive Coodinator of the World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers, and a former Virginia Tech quarterback, is in Blacksburg this morning. Arians is in town for a follow up meeting with Tech's offensive staff. Coach Beamer has also asked Arians to evaluate the progress of Tyrod Taylor and the other Tech quarterbacks. Arians is scheduled to address the team before today's scrimmage in Lane Stadium.
4/18/2009 10:06a		Austin Fuller, who was progressing nicely at receiver, has been forced to shut it down for the remainder of the spring workouts. Fuller suffered a broken bone in his right wrist during Friday's practice.
4/15/2009 6:59p		Today's scrimmage consisted of 11 series, with two of those being 1 offense against 1 defense. The Tech defense limited the offense to three plays in each series. Nekos Brown was the defensive standout against Tyrod Taylors number one unit. Former Tech great Cornell Brown was joined on the sideline today by Tech signee Logan Thomas.
4/15/2009 6:50p		The Hokies just completed a nearly 50 play scrimmage, which was highlighted by the defense, which had 5 take-a-ways. Kam Chancellor led the defense, with a 34 yard interception return of a Marcus Davis pass for a touchdown. Log on to Hokiesports.com for a complete scrimmage wrap-up.
4/15/2009 1:48p		ACC MEDIA CALL Frank Beamer: “We’re right in the middle of spring practice. We have our 9th practice today. I think we’re making progress. The first 8 practices, we’ve been installing a lot with both our offense and defense and our mind has been kind of tying up our feet. But, I hope over these last few practices, we’ll know our assignments and our execution will improve and we can finish strong. That’s what we’re shooting for. Question: Now that this is Tyrod’s (Taylor) thing to drive, how has he responded to that? Frank Beamer: Tyrod has had a very good spring. He’s a leader. I think he’s been more vocal at times this spring and we want that. He understands that this is his football team, go lead us, and help this team win. I think he’s doing a great job. I was talking about your mind tying up your feet and that applies to Ju-Ju Clayton and Marcus Davis. There’s just so much going on for a quarterback. Not just on our side with movement and motion, but on the other side with the defense showing different coverages and so forth. So, there are a lot of things happening, but we’re trying to reduce that for them in these next practices to let their ability work for them. I think they both have good ability. I think Marcus Davis is very athletic and can be a good quarterback. I feel the same way about Clayton. So, we’ll let that play out and see how it works out. Question: How much time have you spent thinking about and preparing for Alabama? And, are you using it as motivation and have you started preparing for what Alabama does? Frank Beamer: No, we’re trying to get ourselves better right now. That’s key for us. Anytime you play a quality program like Alabama, a program ranked as high as they were last year, I think our fans are excited and I know our players are. I’ve been hearing good things about ticket sales there in Atlanta. We know we have a challenge, but right now, we’re concentrating on trying to get Virginia Tech better.
4/14/2009 9:31a		Comings and Goings: Coming: Coach Beamer has added George Herceg (pronounced Her-sick), a kicker from Clover Hill High School in Midlothian, Virginia, to the roster. Herceg attended an open tryout and caught Coach Beamer’s attention. Herceg has joined the Hokies for the remainder of the spring practices. Herceg, a freshman, made Dean's List for the Fall Semester. Going: Justin Young, has requested a release from his scholarship with the intent to transfer. Young, a red-shirt freshman from Germantown, Maryland, will finish out the academic semester, but is no longer practicing with the team.
4/13/2009 10:29p		We had an awesome conversation with former Virginia Tech great Corey Moore. We know that Corey is a fan favorite with the Hokie Nation and wanted to share this exchange: BeamerBall.com: Virginia Tech has tried for some time to get you back on campus for a football game to honor you and retire your jersey. The fans would love that. Your thoughts? Corey Moore: We’re going to make that happen in the fall. It’s going to happen. I don’t know what’s going on with some of the things that people have said or think. Apparently there’s a perception that Corey Moore doesn’t care for Virginia Tech, or, doesn’t want to be around Virginia Tech. I have no idea who started that. If that’s being passed around, I want you to know that’s not true and that’s hurtful. I love Virginia Tech. I can’t put it into words. Just because I’m a private person and really don’t talk a lot, doesn’t mean people should make things up. That’s just wrong.
4/11/2009 2:42p		There’s an old wise football saying: “Recruit quarterbacks and tight ends because they’re the athletes who can help you at a lot of places on the field.” Virginia Tech is certainly proof of that. The starters along the Virginia Tech offensive line for Friday’s Scrimmage #2 were, Ed Wang, Greg Nosal, Beau Warren, Jaymes Brooks and Andrew Lanier. Of those five starters, four came to Virginia Tech as tight ends (Wang, Nosal, Warren and Lanier). No wonder the Hokies feel they’re athletic along the offensive line!
4/10/2009 9:03a		It’s a Big Day in Blacksburg! (Hopefully the weather will cooperate) Today’s scrimmage is scheduled to begin at 4:30pm. It’ll be held on Worsham Field in Lane Stadium and it’s open and free to the general public and all are encouraged to attend. However, if you can’t make it to Blacksburg, be sure to check the BeamerBlog for “live” updates from the stadium. And, for our Coach’s Club members, we’ll have highlights in BeamerVision, as well as Coaches Comments as soon as the Tech staff grades the video tape. This is a key scrimmage for the Hokies. Especially at backup quarterback, defensive line, linebacker and kicker.
4/9/2009 5:27p		Finally, the wind eased up and it's a beautiful day in Blacksburg. A few Hokies from the past visited practice this evening. Coach Beamer welcomed back Jon Jeffries and Kerwin Hairston. Also, it was great to see former Tech standout Corey Moore in Blacksburg as well. It's always a pleasure to have our former players back on campus. In addition it was good to have a future Hokie in town, Antone Exum attended Thursday's workout.
4/9/2009 11:17a		New England Patriots assistant coach Brian Flores was in Blacksburg this morning. Flores, the Pat's assistant special teams coach, worked out former Tech defensive back Victor "Macho" Harris. Harris is preparing for the upcoming NFL draft which takes place in just over two weeks.
4/8/2009 9:11p		The wind needs to give Ju-Ju Clayton and Marcus Davis a break! Throwing the football into a howling wind certainly isn’t easy. And, it makes the staff’s task of evaluating these potential backups to Tyrod Taylor that much harder. Yesterday, in the field house (zero wind), you could actually see tangible improvement from both Clayton and Davis. And, with each accurate pass, you saw their confidence building. Then today, it’s back into gusts and “the balls were all over the place.” It’s forcing both to press. And, that’s exactly what they shouldn’t be doing.
4/8/2009 8:57p		At tight end, it’s now safe to say that Sam Wheeler and Chris Drager are back! (Look out Greg Boone and Andre Smith!) Both, were coming off of major knee injuries and neither was 100% during the 2008 season. However, it looks like Wheeler and Drager have finally returned to full speed. Both are playing fast and with confidence. Wheeler and Drager have both been very impressive so far in spring practices. And, just like at tailback and receiver, the battle for playing time at tight end should be intense!
4/8/2009 8:12p		Only one injury issue following Tech’s 40-play mini scrimmage: The medical staff is concerned about the left knee of Daniel Overstreet. Overstreet is a 6'6", 270-pound freshman walk-on offensive lineman. Overstreet had issues with his left knee at both Blacksburg High School and Fork Union Military Academy. The staff will re-evaluate Daniel’s knee in the morning.
4/8/2009 7:46p		Some quick-hitters from blustery Blacksburg: Tyrod Taylor didn’t see a lot action in today’s 40-play mini scrimmage, but he certainly looked good when he was in there. Also, it’s clear to see that Ju-Ju Clayton is making strides at QB as well. Darren Evans, Josh Oglesby and Ryan Williams were very physical running the football. Evans delivered the big hit of the afternoon when he ran through the attempted tackle of Lorenzo Williams. Also, nice effort this evening from walk-on tailback Zach Evans. He was tough to tackle as well. On defense, Eddie Whitley is continuing to be impressive at corner. He had a pick-6 in this scrimmage. Whitley has a high football I.Q. and he’s also very instinctive. Without question, he’s pushing for playing time. Also pushing for playing time is Bruce Taylor at linebacker. He’s looked like a different player in these last couple of practices. Field goals were not a part of today’s scrimmage, however, it looks like Matt Waldron has eased in front of Justin Myer in the kicking competition. Also, a number of prospects were in Blacksburg checking out tonight’s action. And, our thoughts and prayers go out to James Brown and his family. Brown is a walk-on offensive lineman from Richmond. Brown’s father recently passed away.
4/7/2009 1:21p		As the wind continues to howl in Blacksburg, the coaches and players are preparing for an important 3-day stretch of practices. Tomorrow's session (Wednesday) will involve individual work as well as full contact work. The practice will also end with a 40-play scrimmage. This will be the first full team scrimmage work this spring. Both Wednesday's and Thursday's practices are closed to the general public. However, Friday's practice is open (no charge) and all interested are encouraged to join us in Lane Stadium. Friday's practice starts at 4:30pm. The Hokies will break for Easter following Friday's work and resume with practice #8 on Monday.
4/4/2009 7:31p		What a difference a few months make. Coming into the 2008 season, Billy Hite was pulling his hair out trying to find production at the tailback position. But, by the time the Hokies beat Cincinnati in the Orange Bowl to end the year, Darren Evans had proven that his star was on the rise. This spring, Coach Hite is all smiles. And why not?! When August rolls around, Hite will have Evans, Ryan Williams, Kenny Lewis, David Wilson AND Josh Oglesby. The reason I listed Oglesby last, is because to some people, he’s become a forgotten player. Well, if you’re forgetting about Oglesby, that’s a big mistake! It’s only been three practices, but you can tell that the light bulb is coming on for him. He’s changed his body. He’s much more muscular in the upper body and he’s showing a power-burst that we hadn’t seen before. He’s playing with confidence and enthusiasm. And, with his football I.Q., Oglesby is going to be tough to keep off the field. As Coach Hite likes to say, “they’ll determine who plays, not me.” The other tailbacks are talented and motivated as well. But, you can tell that Oglesby has prepared for the challenge, and he welcomes it.
4/4/2009 7:06p		If you peek inside Curt Newsome’s meeting room, you’ll see a lot of talent, and, a lot of potential. This is the first time since Newsome arrived in Blacksburg that he has the potential for quality depth along the offensive front. And, he’s really pushing youngsters like Nick Becton, Michael Via, Will Alvarez and Vinston Painter, both physically and mentally. Newsome knows the hot buttons and he’s not afraid to push them. He digs at Alvarez to get into better shape (don’t miss the inside story on that in the Coach’s Club), he rides Via concerning incorrect technique and he hammers Painter and Becton about making sure they know their assignments. Newsome has the perfect mix of motivation and moxy and you can tell his players enjoy playing for him. Coach Newsome’s goal is to come out of spring with at least 8 offensive linemen at his disposal. Personally, I think he’ll accomplish that goal, and then some. The competition is heating up as Newsome continues to press the gas.
4/4/2009 1:34p		What a windy, blustery day in Blacksburg today for Spring Practice number 3 of 15! Sustained winds all morning, and gusts up to and over 35 to 40 mph! You'll hear it on the audio of the "Middle Drill" video posted now in "BeamerVision" in the Coach's Club! Early Spring in Blacksburg... gotta love it! We have more video and photos to come later today, stay tuned! Our BeamerVision video cameras spent some time watching the linebackers go through Coach Foster's drills. We think you'll find that interesting! Stay tuned! Also, the Tech Coaches were around long after practice ended. Why? It allowed them time to spend with a special visitor. In addition, Justin Harper of the Baltimore Ravens was spending his Saturday at the Hokies practice.
4/3/2009 10:46p		It’s difficult to provide a lot of insight on a contact sport when there’s NO CONTACT. We spoke with Coach Beamer after tonight’s practice, however, just about every question we asked him, got back to the same answer, “we’ll know more when the pads go on.” Fortunately for us, the pads go on tomorrow (Saturday). We’ll have the entire BeamerBall.com crew on site to bring you video clips, pictures and a complete report on Tech’s first day in pads. Thanks for your continued support of BeamerBall.com!
4/3/2009 6:42p		The Hokies practiced inside this evening. The wind forced practice to be moved to the confines of Rector Fieldhouse. Tomorrow will be a big day for many of the younger players. It will be the first day of actual hitting. Both a middle-drill and a half-line period are scheduled. Be sure to check out BeamerVision tomorrow afternoon for all the big hits! Tomorrow's practice will involve a great deal of special teams work as well. This will be another opportunity for some youngsters to make an impact. Check out the 2009 season poster posted on BeamerBall.com right now. Jeremy Wells, Assistant Athletic Director for Marketing, completed the design for the 2009 Senior Schedule Poster today. See the main index home page for the poster image and enjoy, right here on Beamerball.com!
4/1/2009 8:24p		Cox Sports Television, which is seen throughout the Gulf South and in Northern Virginia, added a one-hour feature on Virginia Tech head football coach Frank Beamer. CST Profiles producers spent time with Beamer and focused on what made the Hillsville, Virginia, native into a consensus National Coach of the Year in 1999, three-time Big East Coach of the Year and two-time ACC Coach of the Year. Highlights of the Beamer Profile include insight from Bobby Ross, Beamer's boss in his first job as an assistant at the Citadel. Ross led Georgia Tech to the National Championship in 1990, and also coached the San Diego Chargers to Super Bowl XXIX. The Beamer Profile will air on CST on the following dates: Wednesday, April 1st @ 8:00pm, Wednesday, April 8th @ 3:00pm, Saturday, April 11th @ 10:00am, Saturday, April 18th @ 9:00pm, Tuesday, April 21 @ 5:00pm, Su n day, April 26 @ 9:00pm, and, Wednesday, April 29 @ 10:00pm
4/1/2009 10:21a		As Tech enters the first of 15 practices this spring, it looks as though the Hokies will begin their workouts indoors with rain forecast in Blacksburg. There are currently 104 team members. A few squad members may miss a portion of practice today, due to injuries and class conflicts. Class comes first! There are several rules that must be followed in order to meet the guidelines the NCAA has set for spring practices. The 15 practices must take place within 34 consecutive days. Only 12 of those practices may include contact and this may not occur prior to the 3rd practice. In addition, tackling is prohibited in four of those 12 contact sessions. Confused?! The Hokies have it figured out. The bottom line, Tech has a lot work to do over the next 25 days.
3/30/2009 9:00a		As Tech's 22 seniors enter their final spring practice, 3 players have already earned their degree. Cam Martin, Mark Muncey and Demetrius Taylor graduated last year. 7 individuals will graduate this May: Brent Bowden, Brandon Dillard, Cody Grimm, Kenny Lewis, Matt Tuttle, Matt Waldron and Ed Wang. In addition, 3 players will graduate over the summer and 6 more in the fall. This means that 19 of the 22 seniors will hold a degree from Virginia Tech prior to a post season bowl game. Head Trainer Mike Goforth, has cleared Brandon Dillard for practice on Wednesday. Dillard was injured last summer and missed the entire '08 season.
3/28/2009 5:42p		Davon is cleared for spring! Although a number of players will be limited this spring due to injuries and subsequent surgeries, Davon Morgan isn’t one of them. Davon, who suffered a season ending knee injury in the win over Nebraska, is now listed as “Full” for the upcoming spring practices. Once again, a great job by Tech’s medical team, and, Davon himself, for the speedy recovery. Congrats to Danny Coale and Cody Grimm for going 6-for-6 in the 6am workouts! But, that truly should be a threesome. John Graves would have been a perfect 6-for-6 but he showed up 10-minutes late for a workout, and showing up 10-minutes late for one of Dr. Mike Gentry’s sessions is just like showing up 10-minutes late for a game! We hate if for John because he’s a fantastic young man, but, late is late! Also, what's the head coach up to this weekend? Last weekend, Frank Beamer was racing at the Bristol Motor Speedway, this weekend, he’s getting in 36-holes at Augusta.
3/27/2009 9:39a		The Hokies completed their final 6am workout this morning with 42 players earning an "Orange Shirt". Dr. Mike Gentry, was very pleased with the progress the players made during the off season. A credit to him and his staff, which includes former players Jarrett Ferguson, Keith Short and Kevin McCadam. The Tech coaches made their final adjustments to the 2-deep depth chart. There will be additional discussion next week on those players not currently listed in the two deep. The 50 players listed in the 2 deep consist of 13 seniors, 6 juniors, 18 sophomores, 13 freshmen.
3/25/2009 8:47p		The Hokies new starting left guard is Greg Nosal. Did you know that Nosal's current hometown is Pearl Harbor, Hawaii? Matter of fact, during spring break, Ed Wang went "home" with Nosal all the way to Hawaii. Nosal's father is a Navy man and is currently stationed at Pearl Harbor with Greg's mom and younger brother. Nosal's older sister is a senior at the University of Florida. Be sure to check out our interview with Greg Nosal in the Coach's Club!
3/25/2009 7:13p		28 hopefuls showed up to participate in today's walk-on tryouts. Virginia Tech football would like to thank each and every individual who auditioned. Josh Eadie, a 6'5" 230 lb. defensive end from Brookville High School, has been invited to join Tech's team for the upcoming spring practices. Eadie, was impressive in the preparation and performance that he exhibited for the Tech staff. Also, the coaching staff was busy today following the 6am workouts, making final adjustments for the spring practices as well as entertaining a prospect who was visiting the campus.
3/25/2009 12:18p		Of the 34 players who earned an "Orange Shirt" this morning, 2 redshirt freshmen are making an effort to be noticed. Although Zac Evans (Christiansburg) and Joey Phillips (Blacksburg) battled each other in high school, today they are teammates looking to contribute in Tech's backfield and on special teams. Evans, 5'10" 190 lbs. turned in a 4.56 forty time. Phillips, 5'11" 218 lbs, who's father both played and coached baseball for the Hokies, ran the best time for all fullbacks with a 4.54. Phillips also had the 3rd best time in the 10 yard sprint at 1.65. Log on later today for an update on today's open walk-on work out.
3/25/2009 10:04a		Thirty four (34) players earned "Orange Shirts" this morning for 6am workout #5. Also, more movement along the offensive line. Vinston Painter will begin spring practices at right guard and will battle Jaymes Brooks for that starting position. Painter is currently listed at 6'5", 310 pounds and will be a redshirt freshman in the fall. Painter had the team's second best bench press at 415 pounds.
3/24/2009 12:37p		There will be some movement in the offensive line prior to the start of spring practice (Wednesday, April 1st). Greg Nosal 6'6' 285 lb. will start off with the first group at left guard. Nosal has had a very productive off season. His 361 lb. power clean was a team best and position record. In addition Nosal had the teams 3rd best bench press at 410 lbs and a team 3rd best push jerk with a lift of 351 lbs. Nosal's move to guard, will allow red shirt freshman Nick Becton to gain more reps behind senior Ed Wang at left tackle. The 6'7" 295 lb. Becton has looked impressive in the off season as well. Look for a few more moves along the offensive front before practice No. 1.
3/24/2009 7:13a		At the linebacker position Coach Bud Foster will be working with four young players this spring. Entering the first practice, Barquell Rivers and Jake Johnson will run with the first team. Rivers will be backed up by Bruce Taylor at the Mike spot, while at the Backer position, Quille Odom will battle Johnson. All four players have progressed well in the off season workouts and are looking forward to taking the next step on the practice field next Wednesday. Tomorrow will be the walk on tryout for the spring. Over 40 students have completed their paper work for an opportunity to make the team for the spring.
3/23/2009 12:09p		A couple of other depth chart changes as spring ball nears. On the defensive side of the ball, John Graves will get the majority of the work at defensive end. This will allow the defense to get the best players on the field and provide some flexibility along the defensive front. In addition, this will provide an opportunity for the staff to get a good look and evaluation at the interior line position. On the offensive side of the ball, Michael Via and Richard Graham will both get a look at center during the spring. The depth chart for entering spring will be completed by Friday.
3/23/2009 9:58a		Fan reminder, Spring practice begins on Wednesday, April 1st, and concludes on Saturday April 25th with the Annual Maroon vs. White VT Spring Game, at 2 pm in Lane Stadium! Admission is FREE! Also, Hokie fans, VT is having a canned food drive that day to help fill our local food banks! All canned goods collected by the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee will benefit the Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry, Montgomery County Emergency Assistance Program, Second Harvest/Feed the Hungry, and Spiritual Roots Ministry Food Bank. So please be sure to bring some canned goods to the Spring Game! Thanks!
3/23/2009 9:22a		After completing our 4th 6:00am workout, the number of players that graded out to earn an orange shirt has increased to 24. Although he has not earned a shirt as of yet, one of the young players who has been impressive is Tony Gregory. Tony will start off the spring at one of the receiver positions. On the defensive side of the ball, both Alonzo Tweedy and Jeron Gouveia-Winslow will begin the spring at the whip position behind Cody Grimm. There may be a few other adjustments to the depth chart prior to next weeks first day of practice.
3/22/2009 4:44p		Welcome to the brand new BeamerBlog! Be sure to check it out Monday morning, 3/23/09, as it debuts with some information from Monday's 6 a.m. conditioning workout. Enjoy!

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