Virginia Tech reportedly hires James Franklin as next head coach after Penn State firing

The 2025 Virginia Tech football season has been challenging, with the Hokies holding a 3-7 record and the dismissal of head coach Brent Pry early in the season. James Franklin has been appointed as Pry's successor, marking a significant change for the program. His hiring is viewed positively, as he is expected to bring a new direction to the team.

James Franklin has been introduced as the new head football coach for Virginia Tech, known as the Hokies. This appointment comes as the university emphasizes alignment within its football program, aiming for a cohesive direction moving forward.

Virginia Tech has appointed James Franklin as its new head football coach, signaling a pivotal change for the program. Franklin, who previously led Penn State, is expected to implement his established strategies for cultivating a successful team culture. He is already in the process of assembling a coaching staff that reflects his vision for the Hokies.

James Franklin became emotional during his introductory news conference as the new head coach of Virginia Tech, reflecting on his relationship with former Hokies coach Brent Pry, who was dismissed three games into the 2025 season. Franklin, a former assistant under Pry, expressed gratitude for their shared experiences.

Eli Drinkwitz, head coach of the Missouri Tigers, addressed the recent job rumors surrounding his future, labeling them as a 'distraction.' He emphasized his commitment to the team's current goals and the upcoming season, dismissing speculation about his departure as unproductive.

Penn State has parted ways with head coach James Franklin as of October. The university is now in search of a new head coach to lead the Nittany Lions football program moving forward.

With only two weeks remaining in the college football season, the College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings are solidifying. The CFP committee released the latest rankings on Tuesday night, confirming that the top six teams are likely to remain unchanged following Alabama's loss to Oklahoma. This development has significant implications for teams vying for playoff spots, particularly Oregon, which is benefiting from the rankings influenced by Penn State's performance.

Virginia Tech has officially hired James Franklin as its new head football coach, filling a significant coaching vacancy. This decision comes amid a broader reshuffling in college football coaching, with Franklin previously serving as head coach at Penn State. Additionally, Ole Miss has reportedly given Lane Kiffin a deadline regarding his future with the program, as speculation grows about his potential departure amidst interest from other schools. The upcoming College Football Playoff rankings may also reflect these changes.