James Franklin delivers a direct statement during his interruption of an ESPN broadcast

Jeff Hauser

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James Franklin sends clear message while crashing ESPN broadcast image

TL;DR

  • James Franklin made his first public appearance as Virginia Tech Hokies' coach.
  • Franklin expressed confidence in his plans to restore the program's success.
  • He sought and received the blessing of former coach Frank Beamer.
  • Franklin aims to replicate his Penn State success with the Hokies.

Virginia Tech Hokies' coach James Franklin made his initial public appearance in Blacksburg on Saturday, participating in ESPN's broadcast during the game versus Miami and Virginia Tech. He conveyed a confident outlook regarding his plans for the team.

Earlier this week, Franklin was officially presented and spoke about the enthusiasm for VA Tech football. However, the weight of his new role is undeniably substantial. 

“There’s great passion and support for this place. Has been for a long time,” Franklin said. “Now it’s my job and our job to get this program back where everyone wants it to be.”

Franklin also highlighted a crucial initial action. He contacted the esteemed former coach Frank Beamer to seek his approval. He likened this to requesting a father-in-law's consent before proposing to his daughter.

“I wanted to call him to pay respect,” Franklin said. “He built this program, and everybody loves him and his family. I called Frank Beamer and said, ‘Coach, before I make this decision, I want your blessing.’”

Following an initial oversight of Beamer on the first calls, Franklin made contact with Both Beamer and his spouse, who pledged their complete backing.

Franklin, who achieved six seasons with 10 wins at Penn State, aims to replicate that success with a program that has not seen double-digit wins since 2016.

“I’ve got a ton of respect for what he’s done here,” Franklin said of Beamer. “Now it’s time to get to work.”

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Editorial Team