James Franklin in ‘early talks’ to become next Virginia Tech head coach: report
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James Franklin may soon find a new home.
ESPN reported Saturday morning that Franklin is “engaged in the early stages of talks” to become Virginia Tech’s next head coach.
According to the report, Franklin will learn his fate in the coming days, but there is mutual interest.
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Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin walks off the field after a game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Beaver Stadium. (Matthew O’haren/imagn images)
Franklin was fired from Penn State after the Nittany Lions’ upset loss to the Northwestern Wildcats. It was the school’s third straight loss and second shocking loss in a row. The team lost to the UCLA Bruins on the road the week before.
Franklin took over as Penn State’s head coach prior to the 2014 season after spending three years with the Vanderbilt Commodoresleading the school to consecutive nine-win seasons.
Penn State head coach James Franklin reacts during the second quarter against Northwestern on October 11, 2025 in State College, Pennsylvania. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
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He was in his twelfth season at Penn State. He led the Nittany Lions to the College Football Playoff semifinals last season, finishing 13-3.
Franklin was 104-45 as the school’s head coach, but was 4-21 against top 10 teams.
Philip Montgomery is the Hokies’ interim head coach after Brent Pry was fired following an 0-3 start.
Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin against the Boise State Broncos in the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. (Mark J. Rebilas/Imagn Images)
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Since then, Penn State has fallen out of the standings and has lost each of its last three games since Franklin was fired. They nearly pulled off an upset against No. 2 Indiana, but the Hoosiers scored a touchdown in the final minute.
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