Virginia Tech appoints James Franklin as head coach.

Virginia Tech has appointed James Franklin as its new head football coach, marking a pivotal change in leadership for the program. Franklin, previously the head coach at Penn State until his dismissal following a 3-3 start to the season, brings considerable experience and success to the Hokies. Over his 12 years at Penn State, he achieved a 104-45 record, won a Big Ten Championship in 2016, and guided the Nittany Lions to a College Football Playoff appearance in 2024. During his tenure, he led the program to seven top-12 finishes in the College Football Playoff rankings from 2016 to 2024.

Franklin’s hiring follows the departure of former head coach Brent Pry, who was let go after the Hokies started the 2025 season with an 0-3 record, including a notable defeat to Old Dominion. Pry, who had been Franklin’s defensive coordinator at Penn State, struggled to find success in his role at Virginia Tech.

Athletic director Whit Babcock expressed strong confidence in Franklin’s ability to rejuvenate the program, emphasizing his “spirit, vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence.” Franklin is scheduled to be formally introduced at a press conference on Wednesday, where he will share his plans for the future of Virginia Tech football. The Hokies, currently 3-7 under interim coach Philip Montgomery, are eager to enter this new chapter with Franklin’s leadership. With Franklin at the helm, Virginia Tech aims to regain its competitive edge in the Atlantic Coast Conference and re-establish itself as a formidable presence in college football.