Why Wofford’s Trip to Virginia Tech is About More Than the Money

Mark Livingston Published: August 4, 2025 | Updated: August 4, 2025

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SPARTANBURG, S.C. — When Wofford travels to Virginia Tech on Sept. 20, most outside observers will see it as a “money game” — the Terriers are expected to receive a six-figure payout for the trip to Lane Stadium. But for those inside the program, it represents something more meaningful.

It’s about measuring growth.

Entering his third season, head coach Shawn Watson has emphasized identity and resilience since taking over. After Wofford’s 56–12 loss to South Carolina in the season finale of 2024, Watson reflected on the positives he saw in his team’s effort.

“My first thought is really proud of our kids … they came out and played, especially a really spirited first half.”
(Postgame press conference, Nov. 23, 2024)

That loss dropped Wofford to 5–7, but it also showed flashes of competitiveness. In their most recent matchup with Virginia Tech in 2022, the Terriers held the Hokies scoreless in the first quarter and trailed only 17–7 at halftime before the 27–7 final.

This year, the Terriers return a veteran core — seniors Kyle Parsons and C.J. Coombes, linebacker Elijah Washington, cornerback J’vion Luster — and landed six preseason All‑Southern Conference honors, the most since 2018.

Watson noted that leadership matters:

“Those were huge confidence plays … those seniors … they’ve helped us to really begin to flip our program. They’ve been through a lot.”
(Watson postgame, Nov. 23, 2024)

Virginia Tech, led by fourth-year coach Brent Pry, returns standout quarterback Kyron Drones and all‑ACC running back Bhayshul Tuten, along with new coordinators poised to reshape offensive and defensive schemes.

But Wofford’s purpose is clear.

“We’re not showing up for a paycheck,” Watson said during spring availability. “We’re showing up to grow and compete.”
(Spring media availability, April 2025)

This game offers more than revenue — it delivers exposure, experience, and a measuring stick for where the Terriers stand under Watson’s leadership.

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