With the unexpected departure of QB Jerod Evans, Virginia Tech football is entering the 2017-18 campaign with glaring questions under center.
There are capable options, and redshirt freshman Josh Jackson is likely the front runner after catching the eye of Justin Fuente and the VT coaching staff last summer, but there isn't a clear-cut starter.
The long-term future, though, looks incredibly promising.
Couple other recruits at The Opening who looked the part today: WR Jalen Hall, QB Quincy Patterson, WR Josh Moore, QB Matt Corral.
— Paul Myerberg (@PaulMyerberg) June 29, 2017
On Wednesday, the nation's top high school quarterback prospects worked out for talent evaluators at The Opening Finals, a showcase sponsored by Nike that highlights the top college prospects in the country.
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The usual suspects like Clemson commit Trevor Lawrence (No.1 QB prospect of the 2018 class) and Justin Fields (No. 1 dual-threat QB of 2018) dazzled media in attendance as expected, but Virginia Tech commit Quincy Patterson caught plenty of eyes — making a major statement along the way.
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"The Virginia Tech commit may legitimately have the highest ceiling of any quarterback in attendance," Barton Simmons of 247 Sports said. USC passer Sam Darnold was on hand throwing as a counselor and Patterson's delivery was very similar to Darnold in terms of the way he throws a football with power and ease. There's no loading up on big throws for Patterson."
That's high praise for the future Hokies' signal caller considering Darnold is widely considered one of the top QBs in the country ahead of the new college football season.
Slowly but surely, Fuente and his staff are making their mark on the Virginia Tech program. I could see the Hokies taking a minor step back this season — but the future is undoubtedly bright.
I don't hesitate in saying Fuente is fully capable of getting Virginia Tech back to consistent national title contention. He has every resource he needs — and I've been impressed with his recruiting prowess and coaching style early.
It should be a fun ride for everyone associated with Blacksburg.
