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James Franklin Calls High-Fiving Penalty “Un-American” in Debut

9/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

James Franklin coached Virginia Tech to a 73-3 win over VMI.
Virginia Tech recorded 619 total yards while limiting VMI to 83 yards.
Running back Marcellous Hawkins Jr. received a penalty for high-fiving a Corps of Cadets member after his third touchdown.
Franklin called the penalty ‘somewhat un-American’ and criticized the referee’s decision.
The game opened Franklin’s first season as Virginia Tech head coach, under NCAA Rule 9-2 on celebrations.

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Story summary

James Franklin coached Virginia Tech to a 73-3 win over VMI.
Virginia Tech recorded 619 total yards while limiting VMI to 83 yards.
Running back Marcellous Hawkins Jr. received a penalty for high-fiving a Corps of Cadets member after his third touchdown.
Franklin called the penalty ‘somewhat un-American’ and criticized the referee’s decision.
The game opened Franklin’s first season as Virginia Tech head coach, under NCAA Rule 9-2 on celebrations.