Virginia Tech’s 2025 football campaign will be remembered as a turbulent one, opening the year with three straight defeats before finishing with a 3‑9 record. The early slump set the stage for a season that tested the program’s resilience and sparked intense scrutiny of its leadership.
Coaching Change Mid‑Season
Midway through the schedule, the university announced the dismissal of head coach Brent Pry and promoted offensive coordinator James Franklin to the top spot. Franklin’s interim tenure was marked by a rapid shift in play‑calling philosophy, but the team struggled to find consistency, ultimately ending the year with only three wins.
Amid the instability, several players stepped up to showcase individual brilliance. Wide‑rusher Kemari Copeland delivered a dominant defensive performance against California, recording seven tackles and three sacks, while running back Marcellous Hawkins powered the offense with 167 rushing yards on 21 carries in the same game.
Standout Moments on the Field
Running back Terion Stewart turned heads with a career‑high 174 rushing yards against NC State, highlighted by an 85‑yard sprint that helped secure a 23‑21 victory. The win marked Virginia Tech’s second one‑score triumph since 2022 and offered a rare bright spot in an otherwise challenging season.
The season also introduced fans to quarterback Kyron Drones, who contributed key plays during the latter half of the schedule. While the team fell short of its early‑season expectations, the emergence of these standout athletes suggests a foundation for future growth.
Looking ahead, the administration hopes to build on the lessons learned from a year of transition. With a new coaching staff in place and promising talent emerging, Virginia Tech aims to restore its competitive edge in the ACC and provide a more stable environment for its student‑athletes.