Bruce Arians reveals James Franklin was Virginia Tech's No. 1 candidate throughout coaching search

It was announced on Monday that James Franklin was set to become the new Virginia Tech head football coach, starting the next chapter of his coaching career. Franklin most recently coached at Penn State for over a decade, but was let go after six games in 2025.

Franklin replaces Brent Pry, who, ironically, worked under Franklin with the Nittany Lions from 2016-21 as the defensive coordinator. Pry was 16-24 as Virginia Tech’s head coach, but was fired after an 0-3 start this season.

Over his 12-year stint at Penn State, Franklin led the Nittany Lions to a 104-45 (64-36) record with an appearance in the 2024 College Football Playoff. When he became an available name on the head coaching market, it was a no-brainer for the program to go after him.

During Tuesday’s edition of ‘The Pat McAfee Show’, former NFL head coach Bruce Arians revealed that Franklin was Virginia Tech‘s No. 1 target from the get-go. Arians, who played college football at V-Tech and began his coaching career there, was a member of the program’s head coach selection committee.

“We’re really, really pumped up,” Arians said. “There are some great years ahead of us at Virginia Tech.

“He was our No. 1 pick all the way. His record speaks for itself. He’s been in the Mid-Atlantic for a long time in his career. He’s a great recruiter, especially in Virginia, and hopefully bright things are on the future for us.”

Virginia Tech is seeking first 10-win campaign since 2016

Since 2012, Virginia Tech has posted just one 10-win season. Prior to that, the program totaled eight consecutive 10-win campaigns from 2004-2011. On the flip side, James Franklin has led his programs to six 10-win season since 2012, with three nine-win seasons as well. The program, which is thirsty for success in a weakened Atlantic Coast Conference, took a big swing and won big with the hire.

“I’m honored and humbled to join the Hokie family,” Franklin said via a press release. “My vision is simple: to restore unmatched excellence, to build something that lasts, and to serve this University, the Commonwealth of Virginia and our amazing fan base with honor, integrity, and passion. I look forward to getting to work with our players, our staff, and the entire Virginia Tech community.”

Franklin’s track record is unmatched, and it sure seems like Virginia Tech has their guy as they head into the future.