In a surprising move that has caught the attention of college football fans, Virginia Tech has secured a commitment from former Oklahoma State quarterback Garret Rangel. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound signal-caller from Frisco, Texas, has decided to transfer to the Hokies after spending three seasons with the Cowboys. Rangel’s decision adds another intriguing layer to Virginia Tech’s quarterback situation as they gear up for the 2024 season and beyond.
When Kyron Drones and Pop Watson made the decision to stay at Virginia Tech after the 2024 season, the Hokies appeared set at quarterback. The two were expected to lead the team through the coming year, bringing both talent and experience to the position. Adding to the quarterback depth, the Hokies also secured commitments from two promising dual-threat quarterbacks, A.J. Brand and Kelden Ryan, who both enrolled in January.
However, the commitment of Garret Rangel on Wednesday raised many eyebrows, signaling that head coach Brent Pry is still focused on adding depth and competition to the position. Rangel, a former four-star recruit, brings experience to the table, having spent three seasons with Oklahoma State. His experience could provide a much-needed boost to a position that’s been in flux for Virginia Tech over the last few seasons.
Rangel’s journey to Virginia Tech has been a bit of a rollercoaster since he first arrived at Oklahoma State. After redshirting in his freshman season (2022), he appeared in nine games over the next two seasons. While his stats may not stand out, Rangel’s time with the Cowboys has allowed him to gain valuable experience in a competitive Power 5 conference. Here’s a closer look at his performance over the last two years:
2022: Rangel saw action in four games, completing 59 of 115 passes (51.3%) for 711 yards. He threw four touchdowns but also struggled with interceptions, tossing five during his time on the field.
2023: His role was expanded in 2023 as he played in five games, completing 17 of 32 passes (53.1%) for 172 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Rangel showed glimpses of his potential but still faced some growing pains.
2024: In limited action during 2024, Rangel played in four games, completing 17 of 33 passes (51.5%) for 192 yards, adding two more touchdowns and one interception. Though his numbers may not jump off the page, Rangel demonstrated that he has the tools to succeed at the collegiate level.
Rangel’s experience, especially in the Big 12, will be an asset to the Hokies as they navigate the complexities of the ACC. His size and ability to make plays in the passing game make him a viable option for a starting role or at the very least, a valuable depth piece. Virginia Tech’s coaching staff will likely look to develop Rangel into a key figure in the program’s future, possibly providing competition for Drones and Watson, both of whom will be entering crucial years of their careers.
For Rangel, this transfer represents a fresh start, one where he hopes to reignite his college career and show off the talent that made him a four-star recruit out of high school. His decision to commit to Virginia Tech has added a new dynamic to the Hokies’ quarterback room, and it’s clear that competition for the starting job is about to get more interesting.
With multiple quarterbacks vying for the starting spot, the Hokies will need to keep their options open as they head into the 2024 season. It will be interesting to see how Rangel fits into the mix and how his experience with Oklahoma State will translate in a new system.