James Franklin is set too become the next head coach at Virginia Tech, according to multiple reports, following his recent firing at Penn State. The move brings a proven winner to Blacksburg, tho he inherits a program that has struggled in recent years.
Franklin’s tenure at Penn State ended after a disappointing start to the 2025 season, beginning 3-0 before a three-game losing streak that included upsets against UCLA and Northwestern. Penn State athletic director Patrick Kraft stated the decision was made because it was “the right moment for new leadership at the helm of our football program to advance us toward big Ten and national championships.”
Prior to his dismissal,Franklin achieved significant success with the Nittany Lions,highlighted by a 13-3 season in 2024 that culminated in a College football Playoff Semifinal appearance,where they lost to Notre Dame.
Before arriving at Penn State, franklin revitalized the Vanderbilt program, leading the Commodores to consecutive nine-win seasons after a long period of struggles.
Virginia Tech moved to replace Brent Pry, who was fired after a 0-3 start to the 2025 season with losses to South Carolina, Vanderbilt, and Old Dominion. The Hokies are currently 3-7 on the season. Virginia Tech hasn’t had a 10-win season as 2016 and last won a conference title in 2010.
