BLACKSBURG, Va. — Virginia Tech will be without three players for Saturday's road matchup against California, including two significant contributors, while several other Hokies remain questionable.
Linebacker George Ballance, offensive lineman Justin Terry, and defensive lineman Emmett Laws have all been ruled out, according to the team's latest availability report — though he's missed the whole season so far.
The Hokies also listed eight players as questionable, including offensive linemen Brody Meadows and Lucas Austin, as Virginia Tech continues to deal with injuries following its 35-33 loss to Pitt.
California, meanwhile, listed eight players as questionable, headlined by starting quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele and star defensive back Kingston Lopa.
Ballance's absence represents a significant loss for the Hokies, particularly given his contributions on defense, special teams and as one of the team's captains.
Head coach James Franklin confirmed Thursday that Ballance would miss multiple weeks.
"Obviously significant," Franklin said. "He was a piece for us on defense. He was a significant piece on special teams, and then just from a captain, from a leadership, from a culture standpoint, big."
Franklin added that Ballance will not travel with the team this weekend, although he can continue contributing as a leader during his recovery.
Terry's absence continues to add another challenge for Virginia Tech's offensive line, which has already dealt with injuries and shifting personnel combinations.
Franklin acknowledged Thursday that the Hokies have been experimenting with different alignments in an effort to get their five best available linemen on the field.
"It's not ideal. We got a lot of moving parts," Franklin said. "We're trying to get our best five on the field, and it may not be at their best positions long term."
The uncertainty extends beyond Terry, with Meadows, Austin and Roseby Lubintus all listed as questionable. Their availability could have a considerable impact on Virginia Tech's offensive line rotation against California.
While Virginia Tech has several notable absences, California could be dealing with significant uncertainty among its starters.
Sagapolutele remains questionable after suffering a head injury against UNLV. The Golden Bears' starting quarterback was evaluated for a concussion following the injury, although California's coaching staff indicated he was available to return before electing to keep him sidelined.
If Sagapolutele cannot play, backup Jackson Brousseau would likely make the start after throwing for 200 yards and two touchdowns in relief against UNLV.
California could also be without two of its most important offensive weapons.
Wide receiver Chase Hendricks, who leads the Golden Bears with 32 receptions, is questionable, as is running back Adam Mohammed, the team's leading rusher.
On defense, Lopa's status is particularly significant.
The defensive back leads the nation with five interceptions and has been one of California's most productive defensive players. His potential absence could create opportunities for Virginia Tech quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer, who threw for 434 yards against Pitt.
Linebacker Kamar Mothudi and defensive back Aiden Manutai are also questionable, potentially leaving California shorthanded at multiple defensive positions.
Along with the offensive line concerns, Virginia Tech listed running back Bill Davis, wide receivers Shamarius "Snook" Peterkin, Takye Heath and L.J. Booker, and cornerback Jojo Crim as questionable.
Davis' availability could affect the Hokies' backfield rotation, while the potential absences of Peterkin and the other receivers could limit Virginia Tech's depth in the passing game.
The offensive line remains the most pressing concern, however, with four linemen appearing on the report and Terry already ruled out.
Virginia Tech will look to improve to 5-1 when it faces California on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET on ACC Network, with both teams potentially missing several important contributors.
