Virginia Tech Fires Coach Brent Pry, Names Philip Montgomery Interim
BREAKING: Virginia Tech has officially fired football coach Brent Pry following a disappointing start to the season, marking a critical shift in the Hokies’ athletics program. The announcement was made just days after the team suffered a devastating 45-26 loss to Old Dominion, leaving them with an alarming 0-3 record for the first time since 1987.
In a press conference held on Tuesday, athletic director Whit Babcock confirmed that offensive coordinator Philip Montgomery will take over as interim coach. Montgomery, who previously led Tulsa from 2015 to 2022, steps into the role with the Hokies set to face Wofford this Saturday. “We’ve got an opportunity right now to write the ending of what this story is going to be,” Montgomery stated, emphasizing the need for immediate changes.
Babcock’s decision comes in light of a record that saw Virginia Tech concede 65 unanswered points over two games. The Hokies’ performance has raised concerns in a results-driven college football environment, prompting the need for a comprehensive review of their athletics strategy. “College sports, especially Power Four football, is a results-oriented business, and we obviously didn’t win enough football games,” Babcock remarked.
The Hokies have struggled under Pry, who was hired in 2021 after a successful stint as Penn State’s defensive coordinator. His tenure ended with a disappointing 16-24 record, including a staggering 15 straight losses against power-conference teams. The pressure is mounting as Virginia Tech aims to modernize its approach to compete effectively within the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
In a related statement, school president Tim Sands highlighted the necessity for a “financial, organizational and leadership plan” to enhance the Hokies’ competitiveness. While specifics were not disclosed, Babcock noted that a proposed plan is underway to reshape the athletics department and align it with contemporary college football standards. “The paradigm of the college football landscape has obviously changed, and we are better positioning ourselves for success,” he added.
As the Hokies prepare for their upcoming game, all eyes will be on Montgomery to see if he can turn the tide for a struggling program. With an urgent need for improvement, this pivotal moment could redefine the future of Virginia Tech athletics. Fans are eager to see how the team responds under new leadership in this critical time.
Stay tuned for updates as Virginia Tech navigates this significant transition.
