Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – As the Virginia Tech football team gears up for its fifth in-conference matchup of the season against Syracuse on the road, the Hokies' defense has emerged as a formidable force. Under the leadership of defensive coordinator Chris Marve, this unit currently ranks 37th in the nation for passing yards allowed, is tied for sixth in overall sacks and tied for 26th in tackles for loss. A key player in this success is defensive lineman Wilfried Pene, whose impactful performances have been crucial in fortifying the Hokies' defensive strategy. With kickoff set for Saturday, Nov. 2nd at noon ET in the JMA Wireless Dome, Pene will play a vital role in helping the Hokies secure their fourth consecutive victory.
Hailing from Tours, France, Pene is in his redshirt senior year, having developed into a standout player over three productive seasons with the Hokies. After making a splash in 2021 by appearing in 10 games and recording a career-high five tackles against Duke, he continued to build on his success. In 2022, he played in 11 games, contributing 12 tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss (TFL) and teaming up for a sack, along with one quarterback hurry.
Last season marked a significant turning point for Pene, as he became a regular presence on the field, participating in all 13 games. He finished with 10 tackles, 1.5 TFLs, one sack and two quarterback hurries. Now, as the 2024 season unfolds, Pene has already tallied 23 tackles, showing remarkable improvement with 2.5 sacks for a loss of eight yards and a pass defended. He ranks among the top 10 on the team in tackles, underscoring his rising prominence.
While much of the preseason spotlight shone on Aeneas Peebles and Kelvin Gilliam, Pene has quietly emerged as a pivotal player on the defensive line. Transitioning from a rotational role to a starting position, he has proven to be a dominant force. His standout performance against Georgia Tech was a career highlight, where he disrupted the offense with four tackles, three quarterback hurries and a sack.
Against the Yellow Jackets, Pene’s ability to penetrate blocks and apply pressure alongside fellow defensive lineman Antwaun Powell-Ryland was on full display. The 6-foot-3, 285-pound tackle exhibits an explosiveness that offensive linemen struggle to contain. The duo notably teamed up for a sack on SEC quarterback Diego Pavia during the season opener against Vanderbilt, demonstrating their strong chemistry and effectiveness.
Since earning his first start earlier this season, Pene has seized the opportunity, emerging as a consistent threat in the backfield. While the entire defensive line has contributed to the team's success, Pene's standout performances have set him apart. As the Hokies look to claim victory against Syracuse, all eyes will be on Wilfried Pene to lead the charge and continue his impressive ascent in the defensive spotlight.
The Hokies will be back home on Saturday, Nov. 9th to face off against No. 11 Clemson. While this matchup is already sold out, fans still searching for tickets are encouraged to explore options through SeatGeek, the official fan-to-fan marketplace of Virginia Tech Athletics.