Split End
Ernest Wilford, r-Sr. (6-4 220)
Wilford proved last season that he is one of the best in college football.
His performance in the Carrier Dome against Syracuse was simply amazing.
He's back and better than ever in 2003. After working hard all summer,
Wilford is ready to show NFL scouts that he can be a first round draft pick.
Chris Shreve, r-Sr. (5-11 183)
Shreve hasn't seen much time over the last 3 years, but he's ready to
contribute this year. He's a fast guy who knows how to play the game. He
made a very important catch in the WVU game last season to keep a drive
alive. He'll be a solid contributor for the Hokies this fall.
Chris Clifton, r-So. (6-4 195)
Clifton is another big target to throw to, much like Ernest Wilford. He's
come a long way since the end of last season. Clifton is also the 3rd
string quarterback. Just call him Slash. He'll see a lot of action this
season and will be a valuable contributor. He's got a bright future at
Virginia Tech.
Michael Malone, r-Fr. (6-3 202)
You might recongnize his last name. Michael is the son of NBA great Moses
Malone. He's made tremendous strides over the spring and summer. He's more
polished as a receiver and is catching the ball better. Malone is a big
target with the frame to put on more weight. He will probably play some
special teams this year, and work his way into the rotation by 2004.
Flanker
DeAngelo Hall, Jr. (5-10 195)
One of the best cornerbacks in the nation, Hall will double as a wideout
this season for the Hokies. In fact, he may end up starting at the
position. Boasting a 4.15 40 time, he has great ability to stretch the
opposing defense. This will open up Ernest Wilford even more. Remember
Charles Woodson? Mr. Hall belongs right up there with him.
Richard Johnson, r-Jr. (5-9 193)
Johnson was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school, but has yet
to break onto the scene as a big playmaker. Tech fans are hoping this is
the year. Whether or not he has a break out year remains to be seen, but
Richard Johnson certainly has the ability to get the job done this year for
the Hokies.
Justin Hamilton, r-So. (6-3 217)
The converted tailback has found his spot at wide receiver. He's a big
target with good hands and has the ability to make plays. He'll get his
shot this year. Hamilton is also a special teams demon. Just ask Al Groh
and Nick Saban. He'll be a valuable contributor this year and his future is
very bright.
The wide receiver position at Virginia Tech is loaded with talent. There
are other young players such as Fred Lee, Robert Parker, Josh Hyman and
David Clowney that are waiting to work their way into the rotation. Keep
your eye on Clowney. He's a big time speedster from the state of Florida
that the Hokies got late in the recruiting process. A true freshman,
Clowney could probably play this season but there may be no need for him to. He
has future star written all over him.
Tech receiver coach Tony Ball deserves a lot of credit. This was a no name
group a year ago at this time, but he's turned them into a very solid unit.
And the good thing about it is that with the exception of Wilford and
Shreve, they will all be back next season. In fact, there are only 4
receivers on the team that are a junior or higher in eligibility, and only 3
if you discount DeAngelo Hall. This unit is going to be outstanding for the
Hokies in future years.