James Franklin’s New Chapter with Virginia Tech

After more than a decade at the helm of the Penn State Nittany Lions, James Franklin departed amid a disappointing season. What was anticipated to be a championship year for Penn State in 2025 ended slightly above a .500 record. Franklin’s departure led to new opportunities, and soon after, the 54-year-old Pennsylvanian found himself a few hundred miles south in Blacksburg, coaching the Virginia Tech Hokies.

On November 19, 2025, John Rocovich, Timothy Sands, Franklin, and Whit Babcock proudly held a Virginia Tech jersey during a press conference at Cassell Coliseum, celebrating Franklin’s new role as head coach. This event marked a new environment for the former Big Ten champion. At the ACC Media Days, Franklin’s comments mirrored his previous offseason remarks at Penn State.

“Winning the offseason”

Many fans recognize Franklin’s recurring theme. Positive preseason outlooks followed by good-but-underwhelming seasons left Penn State supporters skeptical. While Franklin achieved a Big Ten title, his 4-21 record against top-ten rivals fostered the “Big Game James” moniker. Though intended tongue-in-cheek, the nickname reflected fans’ frustrations.

Penn State’s athletic director, Pat Kraft, once embraced Franklin after a victory against Indiana. Online assessments of Franklin are often harsh. Critics remain vocal, but Franklin appears unfazed. Still, Virginia Tech’s expectations differ from Penn State’s.

Under previous head coach Frank Beamer, the Hokies were prominent winners, yet recent struggles plagued the team. By 2025, Virginia Tech hit a low point with a 3-9 record under Brent Pry.

Franklin’s future success in Blacksburg is uncertain. Returning the Hokies to national prominence is achievable, though elevating expectations could challenge Franklin. His task is clear: converting preseason optimism into actual victories.

Austin Perry from OutKick considers Franklin a commendable coach. Perry anticipates Franklin restoring Virginia Tech’s competitive edge. Whether Franklin handles increased pressure following early accomplishments remains to be seen. His “offseason championship” must result in on-field success; future evaluations may hinge on this outcome.