Virginia Tech has parted ways with head coach Brent Pry following a 0-3 start to the season, highlighted by a disappointing 45-26 home defeat to Old Dominion. This marks the program’s worst beginning since 1987, with additional losses to South Carolina and Vanderbilt only amplifying scrutiny on the fourth-year coach.
Offensive coordinator Philip Montgomery has been named interim head coach while the university launches a search for a permanent successor. The question now is who can step in and guide the Hokies back to competitiveness.
Michael Vick, Norfolk State
Michael Vick represents the highest-profile alumni option and is currently coaching at FCS Norfolk State. The legendary quarterback who led Virginia Tech to the 1999 national title game would bring immense recruiting power and strong ties back to the program.
His current work at Norfolk State proves his desire to coach at the college level, and a return to Virginia Tech would create a massive amount of buzz around the program.
Vick’s deep football knowledge and his ability to connect with players could give the Hokies a significant edge in today’s transfer portal-driven landscape.
Philip Montgomery, Virginia Tech
Philip Montgomery is now serving as the interim head coach after Virginia Tech made the coaching change. The current offensive coordinator, who was hired in February 2025, brings extensive head coaching experience from his time at Tulsa from 2015 to 2022.
Montgomery’s familiarity with the current roster and coaching staff provides crucial stability during this transitional period. His previous tenure at Tulsa included four bowl appearances and leading the program to its first-ever AAC Championship game in 2020.
However, his overall track record was mixed. He finished with a 43-53 record before being fired following the 2022 season. Virginia Tech might view this interim role as a trial run for Montgomery rather than an automatic promotion to the permanent head coaching position.
Jon Gruden, Former NFL Head Coach
Jon Gruden could become a candidate worth watching. The former NFL coach has publicly expressed his desire for a comeback, telling reporters he is “on the verge of making a comeback” and would coach at any level.
His Super Bowl championship credentials and experience developing quarterbacks would certainly appeal to a Virginia Tech program that has struggled offensively under Pry. Gruden’s NFL pedigree could be particularly attractive to administrators who are seeking a proven winner.
However, hiring Gruden would come with major complications beyond just financial issues. He resigned from the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021Â after controversial emails became public, creating significant reputation risks for any school that might hire him.
University administrators would likely think hard about the image concerns associated with such a high-profile coaching hire.
Ed Oregon, Former LSU Head Coach
Ed Orgeron recently announced his intention to return to coaching on Barstool’s “Pardon My Take” podcast, stating, “I think it’s time. I’m feeling it a little bit… It’s been four years since I’ve been out.”
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The 2019 national champion from his time at LSU brings proven recruiting abilities and invaluable championship experience to the table. His four-year absence from coaching could make him an appealing option for Virginia Tech, especially since his buyout payments from LSU are scheduled to end in December 2025.
Orgeron could offer the Hokies a proven track record that few other available coaches can match.
Jimbo Fisher, Former Texas A&M Head Coach
Jimbo Fisher has expressed a general interest in returning to the sidelines, telling the “Trials to Triumph” podcast, “I’m 59, in great shape and healthy. I’ve had success everywhere we’ve ever been… I would be very interested.” His impressive credentials include a 2013 national championship at Florida State and a 128-48 career college record.
Interestingly, Fisher’s massive $7 million annual buyout from Texas A&M, which runs through 2031, could benefit Virginia Tech. With that guaranteed financial security, he might be willing to accept a lower base salary, making him a more affordable high-profile hire.
