The Virginia Tech Hokies received a bit of good news two weeks back when offensive lineman Kyle Chung was granted a sixth season of eligibility. The Hokies lost left guard Wyatt Teller and center Eric Gallo from an offensive line that was solid in 2017. Both players started for several seasons and will be missed.
Ya boy officially got the 6th year of eligibility #seniorszn (x2)… https://t.co/VgLy7dxoZV
— Kyle Chung (@kchung84) March 10, 2018
Chung, who has fought injuries throughout his college career, finally had some good luck on his side in 2017. He played in—and started—all 13 games. He has moved around some during his career in Blacksburg from right tackle, to guard and to center. Now, it appears Chung will finish his career as Hokie at center.
#Hokies football coach Justin Fuente said senior Kyle Chung has been working at center. Played right tackle last year.
— Mike Barber (@RTD_MikeBarber) March 22, 2018
This is good news for the Hokies.
Finding a good center is tough. Having an experienced center is even tougher. Chung isn’t going to remind anyone of Dermontti Dawson, however, for a team that is woefully thin at the position, this is an ideal move from head coach Justin Fuente and offensive line coach Vance Vice.
The Hokies have some depth at tackle. Sure, all of the players are younger, but there’s some talent there. The same can’t be said for the center position. In the past, Chung struggled with his snaps when he was at center. That will be a point of emphasis throughout the spring and into the offseason.
At 6’3”, 310 pounds, Chung has ideal size and, as a former tight end, is surprisingly nimble, too. The key is keeping Chung healthy. He suffered numerous injuries before when he played inside.
Chung isn’t guaranteed the starting spot at center. However, the depth chart isn’t too promising, so if he can stay healthy and show the coaches his snaps are consistent enough, the position is his to lose. Here’s hoping Chung stays healthy and finishes his career in Blacksburg on a high note.