The Virginia Tech Hokies entered the New Era Pinstripe Bowl with several key starters. WR Tre Turner, WR Tayvion Robinson, QB Braxton Burmeister, OL Lecitus Smith, DE Amare Barno, DT Jordan Williams, CB Jermaine Waller, and backup QB Knox Kadum are all absent due to NFL draft preparation or transfer portal entry. Conor Blumrick, a transfer from Texas A&M, was named the starting QB with true freshmen Tahj Bullock serving as the backup.
Maryland won the toss and elected to kick. The Hokies started the opening drive with three runs before the Terps forced a punt after VT’s first passing attempt on 3rd and 4.