BLACKSBURG – The Maroon squad clinched a victory in a closely-contested matchup, securing a 21-14 win over the Orange team in the spring game, presented by PMSI, Saturday afternoon at Lane Stadium.
Head coach Brent Pry's third spring game has officially come to a close, offering Hokie fans a glimpse into Virginia Tech's prowess, pace and progress heading into what should be an exciting fall. The culmination of the team's spring practices unfolded in four spirited quarters of maroon and orange competition.
Prior to the game, Virginia Tech's incoming players were recognized, while halftime saw the Hokies' spring practice award winners receive trophies for their hard work and dedication.
The Maroon team's successes were attributed to impressive offensive performances by running back P.J. Prioleau who lead the team in rushing yards with 62 yards, his longest being a 31-yard rushing touchdown for the first score of the game. Prioleau put up a second touchdown with a 22-yard receiving touchdown connection with Kyron Drones.
Tight end Ja'Ricous Hairston also got his name up on the board, giving the Maroon team their third touchdown to dominate the Orange team. Drones finished the game with a total of 122 yards, claiming two touchdowns with an impressive 66-yard connection with running back Malachi Thomas. Quarterback Dylan Wittke also made an appearance, with a significant performance completing five of eight passes for 44 yards.
Gallery: (4-13-2024) FB: 2024 Maroon & Orange Spring Game
On the Orange team, Quarterbacks William 'Pop' Watson III and Ben Locklear split the time with Watson completing 13 of 21 passes for a substantial 130 total yards, including a three-yard rushing touchdown while Locklear went seven of 11 for 90 yards, including a 38-yard connection with wide receiver Chance Fitzgerald.
Running back Jeremiah Coney displayed his athletic prowess, leading the team with 81 rushing yards which included a 33-yard sprint to keep the Orange squad in the game. Fellow running back Tralon Mitchell put up a second touchdown with a two-yard rush.
On the defensive front, the Maroon team was anchored by defensive lineman James Jennette, tallying four solo tackles, three tackles for loss totaling eight yards, and securing a sack for a five-yard loss. Meanwhile, cornerback Joshua Clarke contributed with four solo tackles and an interception, returning it for 15 yards. He was joined by teammate defensive lineman Kemari Copeland, who also grabbed an interception, returning it for 13 yards. Veteran defensive lineman Keyshawn Burgos rounded out the defensive effort with an impressive three sacks against Watson for a total loss of 24 yards, in addition to four solo tackles and a pass breakup.
As for the Orange Team defense, star Stephon Hicks recorded two sacks, resulting in a loss of nine yards, along with three solo tackles. Linebacker Darius Taylor added another sack for a five-yard loss, while Deric Dandy secured a sack as well, resulting in an eight-yard loss. Cornerback Josh Gholston and receiver Ali Jennings contributed with fumble recoveries.
Virginia Tech Athletics is encouraging fans to support Virginia Tech's NIL initiatives. Fans can enter the Triumph Spring Sweepstakes for a chance to win multiple prizes, including a VIP trip to the season opener versus Vanderbilt in Nashville, Tennessee. Those looking for a bid-based prize experience can participate in The Hokie Way Auction for a wide variety of collector's items, destination packages and more. Be sure to get involved before the Monday, April 15 deadline.
2024 Spring Ball Award Winners
Most Improved: Ayden Greene, Mansoor Delane
Frank Beamer Ultimate Teammate Award: Miles Ellis, P.J. Prioleau
Offensive MVP: Kyron Drones
Defensive MVP: Cole Nelson
Special Teams MVP: Jaden Keller
President's Leadership: Kaden Moore, Josh Fuga