Virginia Tech’s football program, once mired in a 6‑7 record just two years ago, is now buzzing with optimism as former Penn State assistant James Franklin takes the reins.
A Turnaround in Blacksburg
The Hokies’ 2024 campaign ended with a disappointing 6‑7 finish, prompting the board to part ways with head coach Brent Pry after a winless start to the 2025 season.
Franklin, hired in November 2025, arrived with a clear mandate: rebuild the roster through the transfer portal and a highly touted recruiting class that cracked the top 25.
Among the newcomers, quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer headlines a wave of talent, while offensive linemen Bryce Baker and Troy Huhn, along with future 2027 recruit Peter Bourque, give the staff depth at key positions.
Playoff Prospects and Schedule Hurdles
ESPN has already penciled the Hokies into its list of potential College Football Playoff contenders, a remarkable turn for a program that finished outside the top 25 just months earlier.
The schedule, however, will test that optimism. Virginia Tech will face traditional powerhouses such as Clemson, SMU and Miami, with two marquee matchups slated for Friday night broadcasts.
The combination of a challenging slate and a revitalized roster creates a compelling narrative for fans and analysts alike, as the Hokies aim to translate early optimism into on‑field success.