During College GameDay, Pete Thamel of ESPN reported that James Franklin and Virginia Tech were in early discussions for the head coaching opening in Blacksburg. Truth be told, those discussions have been happening for a couple of weeks.
All signs point to Franklin replacing his former defensive coordinator, Brent Pry, as the Hokies' next head coach. Nothing is official, however, and it remains a waiting game for everyone. According to CBS Sports insiders Chris Hummer, Matt Zenitz, and John Talty, signs continue to point to Franklin being named head coach.
CBS Sports hints at James Franklin becoming Virginia Tech's next head coach
CBS Sports noted that Franklin has been the school's top target for weeks, something that isn't a surprise, but they did offer a glimmer of hope that things continue to trend in the right direction.
"Franklin has spoken to coaches and even recruits about potentially joining him in Blacksburg (among other places) over the last few weeks, per sources. He's giving the job strong consideration, and several industry sources believe he'll likely take it -- and that Virginia Tech is pushing for a decision soon,'' CBS Sports wrote.
Of course, nothing is official until it is announced, and things can change at any moment when it comes to the coaching cycle and carousel. Franklin remains the top candidate for all of the openings around the country, and until he signs with Virginia Tech or anyone else, he'll continue to be linked to most of the jobs.
Compared to SEC jobs and other Big Ten jobs, Virginia Tech remains the one opening where he can come in and quickly turn things around and become a winner. As far as competing for National Championships, the ACC is an easier path to getting to the College Football Playoff compared to other conferences, which is why Florida State is another interesting school if they decide to move on from Mike Norvell. Hopefully, a 20-point win over Virginia Tech on Saturday night helped to cement his future at FSU. He could likely do that with one win in his final two games to become bowl-eligible.