Should Virginia Tech Make the Bold Move to Hire Former West Virginia Head Coach Neal Brown as Offensive Coordinator? Examining the Potential Fit, Impact on the Hokies, and the Fallout from a Rivalry Shake-Up

Few things stir up the college football world quite like a former head coach of a bitter rival potentially joining the opposition. That scenario could soon play out as Virginia Tech weighs the possibility of hiring former West Virginia head coach Neal Brown as its offensive coordinator.

After five seasons leading the Mountaineers, Brown finds himself out of a head coaching job. However, his offensive mind, deep playbook knowledge, and experience in high-level coaching roles make him a prime candidate for an OC position—and Virginia Tech could be the perfect landing spot.

But would this be a smart move for the Hokies? Would Brown fit into the program’s offensive vision? And how would West Virginia fans react to seeing their former coach calling plays for a longtime rival?

Let’s break down the potential implications of Virginia Tech hiring Neal Brown as its offensive coordinator, analyzing the pros, cons, and the impact on the Hokies, Brown himself, and the WVU-VT rivalry.

1. Why Neal Brown Could Be a Great Fit as Virginia Tech’s Offensive Coordinator

A. A Proven Offensive Mind with a Strong Resume

Neal Brown’s coaching career has been built on his offensive prowess. Before taking over at WVU, he made a name for himself as one of the brightest offensive play-callers in college football, particularly during his stint as the head coach at Troy.

His spread-style offense, quick passing game, and ability to adapt to his personnel made him a sought-after coach at multiple levels. At Troy, Brown led one of the most efficient Group of Five offenses in the nation, knocking off powerhouses like LSU in Death Valley and guiding the Trojans to multiple bowl victories.

Even at WVU, where he faced challenges with roster depth and inconsistency, Brown still managed to construct competitive offenses and develop talented quarterbacks like Jarret Doege and Garrett Greene. His offensive philosophy revolves around:

• Quick, rhythmic passing attacks
• Creative use of tempo
• Strong running game fundamentals
• Pre-snap motion to create mismatches

For a Virginia Tech team looking to re-establish itself in the ACC, Brown’s offensive expertise could be exactly what the Hokies need to modernize their scheme and elevate their offensive production.

B. Immediate Improvement for Virginia Tech’s Struggling Offense

The Hokies have struggled offensively in recent years, often lacking the explosiveness and creativity needed to compete with the ACC’s best teams. In 2024, Virginia Tech’s offense ranked near the bottom of the conference in total yards and scoring.

Hiring Neal Brown would bring:

• A more dynamic passing game
• An increased focus on play-action and RPOs
• Better utilization of skill players in space

If Virginia Tech wants to return to ACC contention, improving its offense is a must. Brown’s experience building offenses from the ground up could accelerate that process.

C. A Strong Developer of Quarterbacks

One of the biggest strengths of Brown’s coaching style is his ability to develop quarterbacks.

At Troy, he turned Brandon Silvers into an NFL-caliber QB. At WVU, he worked with multiple quarterbacks and helped maximize their strengths despite roster challenges.

For Virginia Tech, this could be a game-changer. The Hokies have struggled to develop consistency at the quarterback position, and Brown’s track record of molding QBs into efficient playmakers could be exactly what the program needs.

2. The Potential Backlash: Could Virginia Tech Fans and West Virginia Fans Accept This Move?

A. Would Virginia Tech Fans Welcome Brown?

Virginia Tech fans want offensive innovation and immediate results, but hiring a former West Virginia head coach might be a tough pill to swallow for some.

While Brown’s offensive acumen is undeniable, there’s always a level of skepticism when a rival’s former coach joins the staff of a hated opponent.

The key question is: Would Virginia Tech fans embrace him despite his WVU past?

B. How Would West Virginia Fans React?

For West Virginia fans, seeing Brown on the sidelines for Virginia Tech could sting.

The WVU-VT rivalry, although not played annually, is deeply rooted in history. Mountaineers fans wouldn’t take kindly to their former coach wearing Hokie maroon and orange, especially after spending years trying to defeat Virginia Tech on the recruiting trail and in games.

While Brown is no longer leading WVU, his association with the Mountaineers could make this a controversial hire in the eyes of both fan bases.

3. The Strategic Side: How Neal Brown Would Change Virginia Tech’s Offensive Identity

Virginia Tech desperately needs an offensive overhaul, and Brown could bring the modernized, up-tempo approachthey need.

Here’s how Brown’s system would fit with the Hokies’ current roster:

A. A Stronger Emphasis on the Passing Game

Virginia Tech’s passing game has lacked consistency, with issues in both quarterback play and offensive line protection. Brown’s system relies on quick, high-percentage throws, which could help mask some of VT’s struggles in pass protection.

Expect Brown to:

• Increase the use of play-action to freeze defenders
• Implement more RPOs (Run-Pass Options) to keep defenses guessing
• Utilize crossing routes and slot receivers more effectively

B. A More Balanced Offensive Attack

Brown has always valued balance in his play-calling, ensuring that the run game complements the passing attack.

Virginia Tech has strong running backs but hasn’t always maximized their potential. Brown would likely integrate more zone blocking schemes and power running concepts to create a more efficient and effective rushing attack.

C. Better Utilization of Playmakers

One of Brown’s best traits as an OC is finding creative ways to get the ball into the hands of his playmakers.

Expect him to:

• Use more screen plays to get receivers in space
• Feature tight ends more prominently in the passing game
• Utilize jet sweeps and misdirection plays to keep defenses off balance

If Virginia Tech wants to elevate its offense and be competitive in the ACC, Brown’s play-calling and schematic expertise could be a perfect fit.

4. The Final Verdict: Should Virginia Tech Hire Neal Brown?

Pros of Hiring Neal Brown as OC:

✅ Proven offensive mind with a strong track record
✅ Modernizes Virginia Tech’s offense
✅ Develops quarterbacks effectively
✅ Creates balanced, dynamic play-calling
✅ Could immediately improve VT’s offensive production

Cons of Hiring Neal Brown as OC:

❌ Ties to WVU could create controversy
❌ Would need to quickly win over skeptical VT fans
❌ West Virginia backlash could add unnecessary drama
❌ Limited success as WVU head coach may raise concerns

Final Decision: It’s a Smart Move If Virginia Tech Can Handle the Backlash

If Virginia Tech wants a coordinator who can maximize offensive talent, elevate quarterback play, and bring a modern scheme to the program, hiring Neal Brown makes perfect sense.

However, it comes with baggage. The Virginia Tech administration and fanbase would have to look past his WVU tiesand focus on what he brings as a play-caller.

At the end of the day, winning trumps all, and if Brown can transform the Hokies’ offense into a high-powered unit, any concerns about his West Virginia past would quickly fade away.

The ball is in Virginia Tech’s court—if they’re serious about revitalizing their offense, Neal Brown could be the perfect hire to make it happen.