Photo Credit: Brian Bishop-Imagn Images
James Franklin believes Virginia Tech has done everything necessary to position itself for success this offseason. Now, he says, it’s time to prove it on the field.
Speaking at ACC Kickoff on Thursday, the first-year Hokies coach expressed confidence in the program’s progress since his arrival but emphasized that offseason momentum means little without victories once the season begins.
Franklin Confident in Hokies’ Offseason Progress
“I think we’ve won the offseason,” Franklin said. “We’ve done the right things. There’s a lot of excitement. There’s a lot of momentum right now.”
Franklin pointed to recruiting, transfer portal additions, spring practices and fan engagement as key factors fueling optimism around the program.
However, he acknowledged that the focus now shifts from generating buzz to delivering results.
“After this, then we’re getting to the stuff that matters most: practice and winning games and having that stadium rocking,” Franklin said.
Major Changes Spark New Era at Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech hired James Franklin just over a month after Penn State dismissed him midway through his 12th season, hoping his winning pedigree can revive a program that has struggled for much of the past decade.
The Hokies have posted just one 10-win season since Frank Beamer’s final years and own a 44-55 record dating back to 2018.
Franklin said the university’s increased commitment to football was a major reason he chose to take the job. Virginia Tech recently launched its “Invest To Win” initiative, a $229 million athletics investment, and received a $75 million gift that will largely benefit its athletic programs. Virginia Tech recently launched its “Invest To Win” initiative, a $229 million athletics investment, and received a $75 million gift that will largely benefit its athletic programs.
Franklin stressed that competing for championships in today’s college football landscape requires both strong relationships and significant financial resources.
Balancing Tradition With Modern College Football
While embracing Virginia Tech’s history, Franklin believes the program must continue evolving to compete nationally.
He revealed that he spoke with legendary former coach Frank Beamer before accepting the position and wants the Hokies’ style of play to reflect the identity Beamer established during his tenure.
“I want Coach Beamer to watch our games and be like, ‘That’s what Virginia Tech football is supposed to look like,’” Franklin said.
At the same time, Franklin cautioned against relying solely on tradition.
“I think that’s one of our biggest challenges.” He said. “How do we move the program forward, stay true to the history and traditions, but also make it a modern program that has a chance to compete at the highest level?”
With a revamped roster, increased institutional support and renewed enthusiasm surrounding the program, Franklin believes Virginia Tech has laid the foundation for success. Whether the Hokies truly “won the offseason” will ultimately be determined once games begin in 2026.
