James Franklin ‘in early stages of talks’ to become head coach for ACC program
By Ethan Stone
Published:
James Franklin is reportedly in the “early stages of talks” to become Virginia Tech’s newest head coach. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, talks are expected to resolve in one way or another in the coming days.
Virginia Tech is one of many jobs currently open, and on the surface this would seem like a great move for all parties involved. Despite repeatedly struggling in big games, Franklin consistently posted strong seasons at both Penn State and Vanderbilt. His ability to build a consistent program is absolutely there, which is something Virginia Tech has lacked since Frank Beamer’s retirement in 2015.
Indeed, Virginia Tech hasn’t won 10 games in one season since 2016, and the Hokies have lost 5 of their last 6 bowl games. Franklin offers a 128-60 record as a head coach and, if he were to take the VT job, would be walking into a wide-open ACC landscape.
Thamel also mentioned that Virginia Tech is still running a full search, and there are definitely a lot of options to sort through. This offseason’s coaching carousel is going to be chaotic as notable jobs such as Florida, LSU, Penn State, Arkansas, Auburn and Oklahoma State are all open.
Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.
