Author: Saddam Ismaila

Once a bruising fullback paving the way for Virginia Tech legends like Michael Vick, Jarrett Ferguson has returned to Blacksburg not just to revisit the past—but to reshape the future. As the Director of Strength and Conditioning for Olympic Sports at Virginia Tech, Ferguson is breathing new life into the program that helped shape his own journey, redefining its approach to athletic development, performance, and long-term athlete wellness. Ferguson’s transition from player to program architect is more than a homecoming; it’s a full-circle evolution built on discipline, experience, and an unyielding Hokie pride. His firsthand understanding of what it means…

In this week’s Hokies Mailbag, we dive into some of the most spirited debates around Virginia Tech football: postseason structures, coaching archetypes, and what the program needs to truly contend again. As fans clamor for a return to national relevance, these questions offer both nostalgia and hope for the maroon and orange faithful. Crafting the Ideal Postseason The landscape of college football is evolving rapidly, and with the expanded College Football Playoff format, fans are reimagining what the ideal postseason could look like. For Hokies fans, there’s a lingering desire to see Tech not only in the mix but thriving…

Gator Nation, it’s time to start circling dates on the calendar as the University of Florida has officially announced the kickoff times and TV broadcast details for its first three games of the 2025 season — along with the much-anticipated annual showdown against the Georgia Bulldogs. The Gators will open their 2025 campaign on Saturday, August 30, at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, hosting the South Dakota Coyotes. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET and will be televised nationally on SEC Network. This matchup will provide Florida fans an early glimpse of new talent and give head coach Billy Napier’s…

The Texas Longhorns’ bid for a national title hit a serious roadblock this season, and the blame — at least according to an outspoken ESPN panel — falls squarely on head coach Steve Sarkisian’s shoulders. In a searing segment aired earlier this week, analysts dissected a controversial decision involving quarterback Quinn Ewers, arguing that Sarkisian’s mismanagement at the most critical juncture of the season may have cost Texas its shot at glory. The panel zeroed in on a pivotal late-season game where Ewers, still recovering from an upper-body injury, was thrust into action against a top-tier opponent. Despite having backup…

Virginia Tech has unveiled its 2025 Sports Hall of Fame class, celebrating seven distinguished athletes who have left an indelible mark on the university’s athletic legacy. This year’s inductees span various sports, each contributing uniquely to Hokie pride and excellence. Kaylee Arnett – Diving A three-time All-American, Kaylee Arnett redefined women’s diving at Virginia Tech. Her exceptional performances set new standards in the sport, earning her a place among the university’s elite athletes. Kevin Barker – Baseball Kevin Barker’s prowess on the baseball field led him to a second-team All-American honor. Drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers, his professional journey exemplifies…

Trenton Bourguet, a former standout quarterback for the Arizona State Sun Devils, has officially transitioned into coaching, taking on the role of Assistant Running Backs Coach under Head Coach Kenny Dillingham. This move marks a new chapter in Bourguet’s deep-rooted connection with the ASU football program. Bourguet’s journey to this coaching position is a testament to his dedication and resilience. A Tucson native, he walked on to the ASU football team in 2019, bypassing Division I scholarship offers. Over the next five years, he ascended from the scout team to starting quarterback, amassing 3,162 passing yards and 14 touchdowns across…

Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham and sophomore quarterback Sam Leavitt have been featured on the deluxe edition cover of EA Sports’ College Football 26, a testament to their transformative impact on the Sun Devils’ football program. Their inclusion alongside other college football luminaries marks a significant milestone for Arizona State. A Historic Season for Arizona State In 2024, Arizona State defied expectations by finishing with an 11–3 record and clinching the Big 12 Championship. This remarkable turnaround was propelled by Dillingham’s leadership and Leavitt’s dynamic performance. Leavitt, a redshirt freshman, threw for 2,885 yards and 24 touchdowns while adding…

In a bold and widely discussed move that has drawn national attention, Arizona State University (ASU) and Vice President for University Athletics Ray Anderson have announced the hiring of a former NFL head coach and ESPN analyst to lead the Sun Devils’ football program. This strategic and headline-grabbing decision signals a new era for ASU football, one that promises to blend high-level professional experience with the energy and passion of college athletics. The appointment reflects a clear intent from ASU leadership to revitalize its football program, which in recent years has struggled to maintain consistency in the highly competitive Pac-12…

A new chapter in Arizona State University’s storied football legacy is set to be written as ASU prepares to unveil a statue honoring one of its most electrifying players, Cam Skattebo. The ceremony, scheduled to take place at Mountain America Stadium, marks a monumental moment for Sun Devil fans and cements Skattebo’s legacy as one of the all-time greats to don the maroon and gold. Cam Skattebo, a dynamic and hard-nosed running back, quickly became a fan favorite during his time at ASU. Known for his relentless running style, versatility, and leadership both on and off the field, Skattebo represented…

In a remarkable display of leadership and community spirit, Arizona State University (ASU) quarterback Sam Leavitt has made a significant financial contribution to the Pat Tillman Foundation, further solidifying his commitment to service and honoring the legacy of former ASU and NFL star Pat Tillman. Leavitt, who transferred to ASU from Michigan State, has quickly become a standout figure both on and off the field. His athletic prowess and leadership qualities earned him the starting quarterback position in the 2024 season . Beyond his on-field achievements, Leavitt’s dedication to community service is evident through his active involvement in the inaugural…