Virginia Tech’s athletic director, Whit Babcock, posed a significant question to the university’s board of visitors during an August presentation: “Where does the board aspire to be positioned – specifically with our investment levels in football?”

Translation: Where does the board want to be regarding our football investments?

This inquiry emphasizes how much Virginia Tech values winning as they begin their search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Brent Pry, who was let go amid a disappointing start to his fourth season.

Babcock’s question is timely as he leads the search for a replacement for Pry while also contemplating how to reinvigorate the team’s competitive spirit. Virginia Tech has a proud history in college football, largely shaped by former coach Frank Beamer, but current challenges call for corrective measures.

According to Babcock’s presentation, the university’s operating budget ranks poorly among its peers in the ACC, which necessitates a rethink on investments in its football program to rekindle its former glory. He proposed a plan requiring additional funding of $52 million, aimed chiefly at improving the football program’s competitiveness.

The Hokies’ 27-37 record under Pry and former coach Justin Fuente raises the stakes for any new coaching candidate. As discussions continue with various stakeholders, including President Tim Sands, the importance of developing a financial, organizational, and leadership strategy for the football program becomes increasingly evident. The direction they choose now will dictate whether they remain stagnant, take a moderate approach, or aim for radical advancements in the future. The big question remains: How much does Virginia Tech genuinely care about winning?