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Virginia Tech Unveils $229M Plan, Coach Franklin Declares Offseason Win

7/18/2026

29 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Franklin Claims Victory

James Franklin, Virginia Tech head football coach, said at the ACC Kickoff in Charlotte that the Hokies won the offseason.
He, hired 36 days after his Penn State firing with a 128-60 record, highlighted meet-and-greets, 7-on-7s, the transfer portal and spring events to boost recruiting while pledging to honor Frank Beamer’s tradition.
Virginia Tech launched the $229 million “Invest To Win” plan and received a $75 million gift for athletics.

Summary

Franklin Joins Hokies

James Franklin arrived at Virginia Tech after a 4-21 record versus top-10 opponents in his Penn State tenure, bringing 12 Nittany Lions quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer and tight end Luke Reynolds.
He led Penn State to 10-win seasons and a CFP semifinal loss to Notre Dame after wins over SMU and Boise State.
Analysts note that Virginia Tech’s 44-55 record 2018 and its 2026 opening against VMI make the Hokies challengers.

Summary

Franklin Seeks Blessing

Franklin called former coach Frank Beamer to request a blessing and invite him to dinner.
Bud Foster remains closely linked to the Hokies despite not holding a staff position.
Brent Pry stayed on as defensive coordinator under Franklin, an unusual choice after his prior firing.
FanDuel projects Virginia Tech will improve by about 3.5 wins over last season’s 3-9 record.

History

Historical Context

After decades of shifting affiliations—from the Southern Conference to the Big East—Virginia Tech entered the Atlantic Coast Conference in 2004, winning the league championship that first season. The move capped a program that under Frank Beamer (1987-2015) built a 27-year bowl streak and now competes in Lane Stadium’s 66,233-seat venue. Athletic director Whit Babcock’s recent hiring of James Franklin continues the ACC-era investment.

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Franklin Claims Victory

James Franklin, Virginia Tech head football coach, said at the ACC Kickoff in Charlotte that the Hokies won the offseason.
He, hired 36 days after his Penn State firing with a 128-60 record, highlighted meet-and-greets, 7-on-7s, the transfer portal and spring events to boost recruiting while pledging to honor Frank Beamer’s tradition.
Virginia Tech launched the $229 million “Invest To Win” plan and received a $75 million gift for athletics.

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