Tech was Michael Vick, that one running back (forget his name, Suggs maybe), and Frank's special teams. Outside of those three things they really haven't been special since late 90s, early 2000s. It's not like they're going to get back to their glory days. That equated to about 3 seasons. I like VaTech. They've been a friend to Marshall. But they are not an elite team. They've had a few flash in the pans. That's about it.
Best thing about watching VaTech was seeing how much bigger Beamer's goiter was each season.
Agree about your assessment. Again, fans grumbled in later years about Beamer's O. He made his bones at Tech primarily with stout D and outstanding special teams play.
Believe Tech has the resources, rabid and large enough fan base, and other factors, to be an ACC elite team, in top 4 or 5 yearly, often challenging for the championship game. Only, ND, Clemson, Florida State, and perhaps Miami would challege them year in and year out. Their facilities certainly rank near the top of their league, IMO. If Pry is the right guy, then look for overflowing crowds to be rocking Lane Stadium every game, and night conference games at Lane will again become nightmares for most other ACC schools.
Will be interesting to see how it plays out. Thanks to the Marshall connection, through his father, I'll be watching Coach Pry and Tech closely, and pulling for them, especially early next September when they welcome the Chickeneers to B-Burg!!