The biggest kept secret became reality on Monday when it was announced that James Franklin was named the next head football coach at Virginia Tech. After weeks of speculation and rumors, it became a reality. The timing was perfect and maybe scripted that way with the 2025 version of the Hokies playing their final home game at Lane Stadium when Miami comes to town.
At 3-7, this will be the first time in three years that the Hokies will not be playing in a bowl game after they beat Tulane in the Military Bowl two years ago and lost to Minnesota in the Duke's Mayo Bowl back in January. Florida State rolled to a 34-14 win last Saturday night, knocking Virginia Tech out of bowl eligibility.
That is all forgotten after Franklin was officially hired earlier this week, and the former Penn State coach is setting himself up for a huge weekend in Blacksburg with numerous recruits expected on campus for the game against the Hurricanes.
Virginia Tech vs. Miami: Odds
Odds provided by DraftKings
Moneyline
- Miami -1000
- Virginia Tech +650
Spread
- Miami -18.5 (-105)
- Virginia Tech +18.5 (-115)
Total
- 48.5 (Over -115/Under -105)
Virginia Tech vs. Miami: Prediction
If we're being honest, the case could be made that Miami is the best team in the ACC. The standings and records don't say that, but at 8-2, Miami still has a path to the College Football Playoff. They were ranked 13th in the latest rankings this past Tuesday night. After a trip to Blacksburg this weekend, they close out the season at Pittsburgh next weekend.
Virginia Tech is playing out the string, and players with eligibility left are going to be trying to make an impression on Franklin for the future. Franklin will also look for some retention from the current roster, but will also dive deep into the Transfer Portal once it opens. As for Saturday's game, it's an easy pick.