### James Franklin's Coaching Future: A Potential Move to Virginia Tech James Franklin, the former head coach of Penn State, is reportedly in discussions to take over as the head coach at Virginia Tech. After being fired on October 12, 2025, following a disappointing season, Franklin has emerged as a leading candidate for several coaching vacancies, particularly at Virginia Tech, where he could replace Brent Pry, who was dismissed earlier this season. Franklin's tenure at Penn State ended after a 3-3 start, which included three consecutive losses in the Big Ten, raising questions about his ability to lead a program with high expectations [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/penn-state/news/james-franklin-interview-updates-where-fired-penn-state-coach-stands-virginia-tech-arkansas-fsu/4b244fab34d495ca6fd5e0d9][https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/james_franklins_potential_new_job_would_have_major_implications_for_penn_state/s1_16547_43071818]. ### Overview of Franklin's Coaching Situation 1. **Current Status**: Franklin is in early talks with Virginia Tech regarding their head coaching position. 2. **Previous Tenure**: He was fired from Penn State after a 3-3 start to the season, which included a three-game losing streak. 3. **Virginia Tech's Situation**: The Hokies are looking for a new head coach after parting ways with Brent Pry, who struggled to maintain a competitive program. 4. **Other Opportunities**: Franklin has also been linked to other programs, including Arkansas and Florida State, but Virginia Tech appears to be the most serious contender at this time. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Franklin's Record**: He finished his time at Penn State with a record of 104-45, including a Big Ten title and a College Football Playoff appearance in 2024 [https://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/news/3398671/report-virginia-tech-in-talks-with-franklin-about-coaching-vacancy]. - **Virginia Tech's Recent Performance**: The Hokies have had only two winning seasons since 2018 and are currently 3-6 this season [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/james_franklin_remains_the_top_target_for_major_college_football_program/s1_17022_43071800]. - **Financial Implications**: Franklin's buyout from Penn State was reportedly over $48 million, indicating the financial stakes involved in his hiring [https://www.si.com/fannation/college/cfb-hq/virginia-tech-positions-15-million-head-coach-as-backup-option-to-james-franklin]. ### Conclusion: Franklin's Future in Coaching In summary, **James Franklin is on the verge of potentially becoming the next head coach at Virginia Tech**, a move that could have significant implications for both his career and the Hokies' program. 1. **Immediate Decision**: A resolution regarding Franklin's candidacy is expected soon, possibly within days. 2. **Impact on Virginia Tech**: Hiring Franklin could revitalize a struggling program that has seen limited success in recent years. 3. **Broader Implications**: Franklin's move could also affect Penn State's future direction as they seek a new leader to meet their championship aspirations. The situation remains fluid, but Franklin's experience and previous success make him a compelling candidate for Virginia Tech as they look to rebuild their football program [https://www.irishstar.com/sport/college-football/james-franklin-virginia-tech-talks-36253084][https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/virginia_tech_engaged_with_other_hc_candidates_amid_james_franklin_rumors/s1_13132_43071735].