Players Change, But Hokies Defense Doesn't

Seven new starters.

Those words hung over Virginia Tech's defense like a dark cloud.

That proud defense wanted to maintain its standard - four consecutive years ranked in the nation's top four for total defense - but how?

The Hokies (8-4) made it to Saturday's ACC Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium, where the Boston College Eagles (9-3) await, and you'd never know there was a period of defensive adjustment.

So the Hokies were supposedly too young and inexperienced, huh? Well, guess their national total-defense ranking now.

Sixth.

And climbing.

"They haven't changed much over the years," BC coach Jeff Jagodzinski said.

For good reason.

Defensive coordinator Bud Foster is completing his 22nd season at Virginia Tech. After the 1998 season, Foster was pursued by the University of Florida. Tempting, but no. He stuck by his boss, Coach Frank Beamer, and they have continued a string of staff stability.

Foster is a taskmaster, a perfectionist, and he demands that approach from his players.

"That goes from the first-string guys to the third-string guys," Virginia Tech senior defensive end Orion Martin said. "Coach Foster wants the highest level at all times, whether it's practice or games."

"They're tenacious, they move around, and they are all big hitters," Eagles tight end Ryan Purvis said. "We've played them a lot, and we know how good that defense is."

The Hokies have one high-profile defensive player - first-team All-ACC cornerback Victor "Macho" Harris. Very appropriate for a unit that brings a battered lunch pail to its sideline, a symbol of the defense's work ethic and no-nonsense approach.

That ideal has been preserved - even with seven new starters.

"I've enjoyed this football team, but we've had to do some coaching here," Beamer said. "It's gratifying to get back to the championship game. It does mean more to you when it's hard like that."