Virginia Tech didn’t crack the AP Top 25 preseason poll released Monday at noon ET, but the Hokies were not left out of the conversation. They landed in the “receiving votes” group, giving them at least some national traction heading into 2026.
The AP poll, released on Monday, Aug. 17, 2026, included three ACC teams in the top 25: Miami at No. 7, SMU at No. 19 and Louisville at No.
- Virginia Tech finished tied for 37th in total points.
That ranking still leaves the Hokies with a clear path through a schedule dotted with ranked and near-ranked opponents. Virginia Tech is set to face two AP top-25 teams on the road: SMU in Dallas on Friday, Nov. 6, and Miami in Miami Gardens, Fla., on Saturday, Nov. 21.
Clemson sits just outside the full poll as the de-facto No. 26, and Virginia Tech gets that matchup on Saturday, Oct. 24.
The Hokies will be chasing their first road win at Clemson since 2007. Their other ACC opponents that picked up votes are Pittsburgh on Oct. 2 with seven points, Georgia Tech on Oct. 17 with four points, California on Oct. 10 with two votes and Virginia on Nov. 28 with one point.
Virginia Tech also showed up in a couple of individual preseason ballots. Jon Wilner of the San Jose Mercury News slotted the Hokies at No. 24, while Bob Ballou of CBS Austin had them at No. 22.
The Hokies open the season on Saturday, Sept. 5, hosting VMI at Lane Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on the ACC Network, and it will be the first meeting between the programs since the 1984 season.
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Virginia Tech Fall Camp Battle Is Bringing New Names Into Focus
During Virginia Techs open practice on Aug. 13, the first thing that stood out was how many spots still felt up for grabs. James Franklin has made it clear that every position is open as the Hokies keep sorting through fall camp, and that has opened the door for several players to make their case with a strong showing in front of reporters. The team is using these sessions to evaluate not just the usual veterans, but also newcomers and younger players who have started to turn practice reps into real momentum.
Among the names drawing attention is Jaquez White, the Troy transfer who made his presence felt by breaking up three passes during the workout. Virginia Tech is also watching a handful of other players whose past production, recruiting profile, and camp progress suggest they could become meaningful pieces this season, with the final starting lineup set to be revealed before the VMI game. For a roster still taking shape, the next stretch of practice will help determine which of those emerging contributors are ready to move from intriguing options to everyday roles. [Read more 🡒]
Quentin Reddish Gives Virginia Tech A Needed Boost At Safety
Virginia Tech got a welcome sight in fall camp with Quentin Reddish back on the practice field, giving the secondary a boost at a position that has been important to sort out before the season opener against VMI. The safety is projected to step into a starting role, and his return adds some needed stability and experience to a defense that can use both as the Hokies work toward Week 1.
Reddishs comeback has been a long one after the shoulder injury sidelined him for a stretch, but his progress has clearly caught the attention of the staff. Safety coach Anthony Midget has been pleased with what he has seen so far, and Virginia Tech will keep watching how Reddish handles the final stages of camp as the opener gets closer. [Read more 🡒]