Key Highlights
- Virginia Tech is hiring James Franklin to fill its coaching vacancy.
- Franklin was fired by Penn State amid a 3-3 start in the 2025 season.
- The Hokies have not appeared in a New Year’s Six Bowl since 2011 and haven’t been ranked in the AP Top 25 since 2021.
- Franklin spent 12 seasons at Penn State, leading them to multiple postseason appearances and victories over 6 out of his 12 seasons.
New Era for Virginia Tech: James Franklin Joins Coaching Staff
Virginia Tech is making a significant move in their quest to compete at the highest levels of college football. The Hokies have hired James Franklin, a name that carries considerable weight and experience, to fill their coaching vacancy.
A Turbulent End for Penn State
Franklin’s tenure at Penn State was marked by early success followed by an abrupt end in 2025. The Nittany Lions started the season 3-0 but faced a series of setbacks, ultimately leading to Franklin’s firing after just three games. This comes amidst a broader context of struggles for traditional football powerhouses like Clemson and Florida State, who have also seen significant downturns.
Franklin’s Resumé: A Proven Track Record
Despite the sudden end at Penn State, Franklin’s career is filled with success. He spent 12 seasons with the Nittany Lions, leading them to a winning record in six of those years and securing multiple postseason appearances from 2014-2024. During his tenure, Penn State finished in the top 10 of the AP poll five times.
Virginia Tech’s New Hope: Capitalizing on Franklin’s Experience
The move to hire Franklin represents a fresh start for Virginia Tech, which has struggled both on and off the field. The Hokies have not appeared in a New Year’s Six Bowl since 2011 and haven’t been ranked in the AP Top 25 since Week 3 of the 2021 season.
Franklin’s deep ties to Virginia, including his native Pennsylvania and time as an assistant at Maryland, could prove beneficial. He has also prioritized recruiting from Virginia, which is crucial for the Hokies’ success in the ACC. With a budget that will increase to $212.1 million by 2029-30, Virginia Tech is poised to capitalize on Franklin’s expertise.
Immediate Impact and Future Prospects
The hiring of James Franklin marks a significant step for Virginia Tech as they aim to compete in the ACC. With traditional powers like Clemson and Florida State struggling, there is an opening for teams to rise in the rankings. Franklin’s ability to manage his roster could help get the Hokies ready to compete early in the conference.
“It seems the university is ready to help Franklin and the Hokies take that step,” says an analyst familiar with the situation. “With a strong budget and Franklin’s proven track record, Virginia Tech is well-positioned to make a splash in the ACC.”
The move signals a new era for Virginia Tech football as they seek to break through the glass ceiling and establish themselves as a competitive force in college football.
