Ever since Virginia Tech made the official announcement that James Franklin would become the program’s next head football coach, the response from nearly every corner of the college football world has leaned overwhelmingly positive. While a handful of critics have voiced hesitation or skepticism about whether Franklin is the right fit for the job, the broader national reaction has been largely enthusiastic. And honestly, it’s not difficult to understand why so many people are reacting favorably.
Franklin’s résumé speaks for itself. During his time at Vanderbilt, he pulled off what many considered one of the toughest coaching feats in the SEC: making the Commodores competitive, relevant, and respected in a conference dominated by giants. Then, at Penn State, he not only stabilized a program that had endured immense turmoil but guided it back to consistent national prominence. Double-digit win seasons, major bowl appearances, and top-tier recruiting classes became staples of his tenure. Given that history, it’s no surprise that a fan base yearning for a resurgence sees Franklin as someone who can breathe life back into a program that has struggled to find direction in recent years.
Another factor fueling excitement is Franklin’s recruiting reputation. Few coaches have demonstrated the same ability to build strong pipelines into the talent-rich DMV region—D.C., Maryland, and Virginia—as consistently as he has. His connections, energy, and persistence on the trail have long been recognized, and those strengths have already begun to materialize in Blacksburg. Even though he has barely settled into the job, Franklin has wasted no time mapping out a recruiting strategy that suggests he intends to hit the ground running. Evidence of that came almost immediately: within days of being hired, he had already lined up an impressive group of prospects scheduled to visit for Saturday’s matchup against Miami. That early momentum alone has been enough to convince many fans that the program is heading in a new and promising direction.
Of course, reactions within the world of college football don’t take place in a vacuum, and the perspective of other prominent coaches carries weight. One of Franklin’s most memorable adversaries during his years in the Big Ten was former Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer, who faced Franklin multiple times in high-stakes battles. Meyer has never been one to hide his opinions, and his commentary often adds texture to coaching conversations. On the subject of Virginia Tech’s decision to bring Franklin aboard, Meyer has made it clear that he approves of the move. Coming from a coach who has not only competed against Franklin but studied the strategies and cultures of programs across the country, that endorsement carries considerable significance. Meyer’s nod reflects both respect for Franklin’s coaching acumen and recognition of what his presence could mean for the Hokies moving forward.
In the end, while not everyone is entirely sold on the hire, the broader sentiment is unmistakably upbeat. With Franklin’s proven success, recruiting prowess, and early signs of momentum, many believe Virginia Tech has positioned itself for a much-needed revival under its new leader.
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