As the 2024 college football season approaches, the state of Virginia is buzzing with excitement as two teams, JMU and Liberty, vie for the title of the best college football team in the state. Both teams ended the 2023 regular season with strong performances, but questions lingered as Liberty suffered a blowout loss to Oregon in the Fiesta Bowl, and JMU underwent significant roster and coaching changes in the offseason.
Virginia Tech, on the other hand, enters the 2024 season with high expectations and a legitimate claim to the top spot in the state. Led by starting quarterback Kyron Drones and a dynamic group of wide receivers, the Hokies have their sights set on the College Football Playoff. With a formidable defense anchored by Aeneas Peebles, Virginia Tech’s schedule sets up favorably for a successful season, with the potential to reach 10 wins.
In contrast, Liberty’s soft schedule may deceive some, but the Flames have proven themselves to be a force to be reckoned with. Returning key players and their head coach from a 12-win season in 2023, Liberty is the overwhelming favorite to win the Conference USA title. A road win over App State could solidify their position as contenders for the College Football Playoff.
JMU, despite losing key contributors and coaching staff, has managed to reload rather than rebuild, thanks to the addition of head coach Bob Chesney and a strong transfer portal class. With a favorable schedule ahead, the Dukes have high expectations for the season, with the potential to win the Sun Belt and secure a spot in the CFP.
Virginia, under the leadership of Tony Elliott, enters Year 3 with hopes of making a bowl game. While the team’s starting unit shows promise, a lack of elite depth may hinder their success. Virginia needs to win consistently to break into the top three of the power ranking.
Old Dominion, led by Ricky Rahne, looks to outperform preseason expectations once again. With standout linebacker Jason Henderson leading the defense, the Monarchs face a tough opening schedule that could make or break their season.
As the 2024 season kicks off, college football fans in Virginia eagerly anticipate the battles on the gridiron as JMU, Liberty, Virginia Tech, Virginia, and Old Dominion compete for state supremacy. The competition is fierce, but only time will tell which team will emerge as the best in the state of Virginia.
