45. CB Dorian Strong
Cornerback Dorian Strong earned the 45th spot in Brooks’ rankings, adding to an impressive list of accolades from the 2023 campaign. These include being named a 2023 Action Network Second Team All-American, making the 2023 All-ACC Third Team and being recognized as one of the top 10 returning cornerbacks by Pro Football Focus (PFF).
In his fourth year, Strong played and started in all 13 games at cornerback. He achieved career highs in total tackles, passes defended, interceptions and interception yards. The cornerback finished the season with 25 total tackles and eight pass breakups on 11 passes defended. His 32-yard interception return against Old Dominion in the season opener was the longest of his career. Strong also snagged two interceptions against Boston College, including one on the game’s opening play. This performance earned him the ACC Defensive Back of the Week honor and a spot on PFF’s Weekly College Football Team.
Witness Strong’s performance this fall, and ensure you never miss a moment of Tech football in the electrifying atmosphere of Lane Stadium by purchasing season tickets.
72. DL Antwaun Powell-Ryland
Ranked 72nd, defensive lineman Antwaun Powell-Ryland made a significant impact in his first season at Virginia Tech, earning a spot on the 2023 All-ACC Second Team and receiving an Honorable Mention on the 2023 Phil Steele All-American list.
Powell-Ryland’s performance was outstanding, tallying 9.5 sacks, ranking second in the ACC and tied for 14th nationally. He recorded 40 total tackles, 23 of which were solo, and 14.5 tackles for loss (TFL), placing him 24th in the country and fifth in the ACC. The edge rusher’s dominant game against Wake Forest, where he finished with four sacks, made him the fourth Virginia Tech defensive player to record four or more sacks in a single game.
The Portsmouth, Virginia native also forced three fumbles and recovered two, one of which was against Wake Forest, earning him the ACC Defensive Lineman of the Week honor. APR’s impressive statistics and accolades highlight his crucial role in the Hokies’ defense and his potential for the months ahead.
88. DL Aeneas Peebles
Newly transferred defensive lineman Aeneas Peebles landed at 88th after an impressive tenure at Duke, where he was named to the 2023 Pro Football Focus All-ACC First Team and the 2023 All-ACC Third Team as a defensive tackle. At Duke, Peebles co-led the team in tackles for loss (8.5) and ranked second in sacks (4). The fifth-year player recorded 40 tackles and added four quarterback hurries, two pass breakups, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
Peebles demonstrated his consistency with four or more tackles in six games. As he joins the Hokies, there is great anticipation for his contribution to the defense, especially alongside his fellow top 100 ranked players.
Acquire your tickets now for the home opener as the Hokies face Marshall on Saturday, Sept. 7, at 4:30 p.m. ET, and secure your spot to see these three Top 100 players in action.
