In a thrilling display of dedication, outgoing wide receiver Da'Wain Lofton played a critical role in the Virginia Tech Hokies' triumph over Tulane in the 2023 Military Bowl. Lofton, who had entered the NCAA Transfer Portal, demonstrated the unwavering spirit of the football program's culture by contributing a pivotal play despite his pending transfer.

The introduction of the transfer portal has added a new dimension to the bowl season, allowing players to participate in post-season games even if they intend to join a new team. With the transfer portal window opening in early December, a growing number of players are choosing to utilize this option.

During the 2023 Military Bowl, Virginia Tech showcased the impact of players who had entered the transfer portal. Notably, wide receiver Da'Wain Lofton and defensive back Derrick Canteen, both of whom had embarked upon their transfer journeys, played crucial minutes in Virginia Tech's resounding 41-20 victory over Tulane.

Lofton, a reserve wide receiver, delivered a game-changing moment when he recovered a fumbled punt deep in Tulane territory. Capitalizing on this turnover, the Hokies swiftly turned it into a touchdown with a brilliant run by Kyron Drones on the subsequent play. Lofton's unwavering commitment to his team, despite nursing a hamstring injury, truly exemplified the culture of the Virginia Tech football program.

Head coach Norell Pollard praised Lofton's tenacity, stating, "To me, it's a testament to the culture on this football program. He laid it on the line all game long and was nursing a hamstring. Like Norell said, he just wanted to do it for his teammates and go out with a victory and have a ring that says champions on it."

While Virginia Tech has experienced a significant exodus of seven scholarship players through the transfer portal, including Lofton and Canteen, the team has also acquired three new players via the portal. As the program adapts to the ever-evolving landscape of college football, the Hokies continue to persevere and find success both on and off the field.

The 2023 Military Bowl victory serves as a testament to the resilience and unity within the Virginia Tech football program. As Da'Wain Lofton's remarkable play demonstrated, individuals may have their sights set on new opportunities, but the commitment to the team and the pursuit of victory remains unwavering.