Photo Credit: Jake Roth
One of the biggest questions going into this week's game against Wake Forest is whether starting QB Hendon Hooker will play after missing last Saturday's game against Notre Dame.
After having lots of confidence of a Hooker return last week, Justin Fuente was much more tepid in his thoughts about a Hooker return this week.
Fuente on whether Hendon Hooker will start on Saturday vs Wake Forest:
— David Cunningham (@therealdcunna) November 4, 2019
“We’ll see… I don’t know if that’s going to happen or not.” #Hokies
If Hooker doesn't return, Quincy Patterson is expected to start after making his first career start against Notre Dame. Patterson didn't have the best day through the air with a rough first half being a big reason for it. Overall, Patterson fought through it and found his rhythm in the second half finishing 9-28 for 139 yards with a TD and a late INT while also running for 77 yards on 19 carries.
While Patterson did show improvement in the second half, it's clear that the Hokies need Hendon Hooker back to maximize their offense. Hooker gives the Hokies a more accurate passer who Justin Fuente and Brad Cornelsen trust with a more well-rounded offense, especially in the passing game.
At this point, don't be surprised to not have a final answer on Hooker's status for Saturday till the first drive just like this past week against Notre Dame.
