Everything From Virginia Tech's James Franklin At 2026 ACC Kickoff

Virginia Tech football coach James Franklin used the ACC Kickoff in Charlotte to emphasize that the program has “won the off season,” citing standards, expectations, and culture. Speaking Thursday, July 16, at the Hilton Charlotte Uptown, Franklin thanked President Tim Sands and highlighted the new athletic director, Brian White. He said Virginia Tech has been sprinting since arriving in Blacksburg and pointed to three student representatives praised for academic performance and leadership. Franklin attributed momentum to an unconventional move hiring Brent Pry as defensive coordinator, adding that the team is “bigger, stronger, faster,” with depth positioned to compete. He noted, however, that results must carry onto the season, which he framed around making alumni and past leaders proud, including Coach Beamer and Bud Foster.