James Franklin: A New Chapter in Blacksburg

James Franklin, a seasoned coach with a mixed track record, has found a new home at Virginia Tech. After a surprising exit from Penn State, Franklin is set to take the reins of a program that has seen better days. Virginia Tech, hoping to turn things around, has high hopes for Franklin's ability to rebuild and bring success. Franklin's time at Penn State was a rollercoaster. He led the Nittany Lions to a College Football Playoff semifinal just last season, but his teams often struggled against top-tier opponents. The 2025 season started with high expectations, but a mid-October slump led to his firing. Despite this setback, Franklin remains confident and is ready to prove himself again. Virginia Tech, meanwhile, has been on a downward spiral since 2017, with only one winning season in the past six years. The program is eager for a fresh start and believes Franklin is the right man for the job. The Hokies are also investing heavily in their athletic programs, aiming to become more competitive in the ACC. Franklin's familiarity with the state of Virginia is a significant asset. During his time at Penn State, he successfully recruited several top prospects from Virginia, including six of the state's top 10 prospects in the 2023 class. This local knowledge could be crucial in rebuilding the Virginia Tech program. The ACC is wide open this year, with traditional powers Clemson and Florida State struggling. This presents an opportunity for Virginia Tech to make a splash under Franklin's leadership. While the pressure in Blacksburg may not be as intense as it was in State College, Franklin will still have a clear path to the Playoff if he can lead the Hokies to success.