REPORT: Pop Watson Expected To Start vs Virginia
As first reported by Pete Thamel of ESPN, Virginia Tech is expected to start redshirt freshman quarterback Pop Watson in the rivalry matchup against Virginia. Collin Schlee remains to be a game time decision, but it is more likely than not that Watson will be the Hokies’ signal caller.
Sources: Redshirt freshman Pop Watson is the expected starter for Virginia Tech tonight against Virginia. Collin Schlee looms as a gametime decision for Tech, and the expectation is Watson starts.
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) November 30, 2024
Pop Watson and Virginia quarterback Anthony Colandrea have plenty of history when it comes to recruiting rankings. According to 247Sports’ rankings, the two quarterbacks were ranked right beside each other in high school, as now they will potentially match up against each other in what could be the biggest game of both of their careers.
Redshirt freshman Pop Watson looks like the starter at quarterback for Virginia Tech tonight against Virginia.
— Preston Willett (@PrestonWillett) November 30, 2024
Watson was ranked one spot ahead of UVA QB Anthony Colandrea coming out of high school. https://t.co/vwKWPAQdxQ pic.twitter.com/czRwETVwOL
Both quarterbacks have played teams with better records, but something about a rivalry game, especially an in-state rivalry, makes it that much different. As was shown last night in the historic matchup between Georgia and Georgia Tech, anything can happen, and both teams will come into the game with a strong, winning mentality.
Watson will have a big hill to climb though. He had the home field advantage at his hip, but the Hoos’ defense has travelled fairly well this year. In Virginia’s matchup against Pitt, the Cavs held the Panthers’ explosive offense to just nineteen points as quarterback Eli Holstein threw for only 121 yards.
In Pop’s first game he wasn’t perfect either, but he showed some incredible flashes that have to have Virginia Tech fans excited for the Commonwealth Clash. Watson was 12-for-25 passing the ball, totaling 146 yards, a 63.2 quarterback rating, zero touchdowns, and one interception. Watson also had some long runs that were negated in his final rushing stats after being sacked seven times by the Duke defense.
If Pop Watson starts as expected, freshman Davi Belfort should serve as the backup.
Related Stories:
Virginia Tech Football: Three Keys to Victory for the Hokies on Saturday vs Virginia
Virginia Tech Football: What Does ESPN’s FPI Say About the Game Against Virginia?
RJ Schafer joined the On SI team in 2024, contributing to the coverage of Major League Baseball, Collegiate Basketball, and Collegiate Football at https://www.si.com/college/virginiatech/. Prior to this, RJ built a strong portfolio covering Georgia Tech and the Tigers for the Bleav Network. With a solid background in sports journalism, RJ has conducted interviews with both collegiate and professional athletes, enhancing the depth and authenticity of his reporting. RJ's extensive experience in the sports industry has equipped him with a keen understanding of the dynamics and intricacies of both collegiate and professional sports. His work is focused on providing insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage, making him a trusted voice in the sports community.