Virginia Military Institute’s football program is entering a rebuilding phase as Ashley Ingram begins his first season as head coach. The Keydets finished last in the preseason Southern Conference media poll, but Ingram sees an opportunity to reshape the roster and instill a new culture.
Ingram’s staff has already identified talent that could accelerate the turnaround. Senior running back Leo Boehling earned first‑team All‑SoCon honors, while punter Ben Shrewsbury and offensive lineman Bryce Burnett received first‑team and second‑team recognitions respectively. Linebacker Isaiah Grevious also made the second‑team list, highlighting the defensive potential.
Early Schedule Highlights
The early schedule pits the Keydets against familiar foes. Their first test arrives on August 29 when they travel to face Idaho State, followed by a highly anticipated matchup with Virginia Tech on September 5. Both games will serve as early gauges of the team’s progress.
Ingram emphasizes steady growth rather than instant breakthroughs. He expects the underclassmen to gain confidence each week, gradually establishing themselves on the roster and competing more effectively as the season unfolds.
If the early contests go as planned, the Keydets could begin to climb the conference standings and shift the narrative from rebuilding to contending.