There are a lot of rumors swirling around Virginia Tech and James Franklin. It will be unlikely that we get any news or clarity for a bit. Whether there is truth there and Franklin gets hired remains to be seen, but his former school, Penn State, got a major hit in their search for his replacement, and it could affect Virginia Tech's search.
On Thursday, Matt Rhule, who was rumored to be Penn State's top target, agreed to an extension at Nebraska for two years, through 2032. You would think that this eliminates him from what is expected to be a crazy coaching cycle over the next couple of months.
"The University of Nebraska, the city of Lincoln and the state of Nebraska are special. It is a place our family is proud to call home," Rhule said in a statement. "We have outstanding leadership from [Nebraska president] Dr. [Jeffrey P.] Gold and [athletic director] Troy Dannen, and I appreciate the support and confidence they have shown in our staff. Our focus remains on building Nebraska Football into a perennial championship contender."
This may not have a direct effect on Virginia Tech's search, but it will have a ripple effect across college football this cycle.
Bhayshul Tuten's return
Former Virginia Tech running back Bhayshul Tuten was at Lane Stadium on Friday night to watch the Hokies, 42-34, double overtime win over California. Before the game, running backs coach Elijah Brooks had a clear message for his current group of backs.
"It was great,'' Brooks said. "I told those guys before the game [that] 'Bhayshul's returning'. And I'mma feel pretty upset if the commentators and people are talking more about Bhayshul's return than what we're doing on the field. And so, it was really good to see our guys rise to the challenge. He was on the sideline coaching our guys up, telling them what he saw. It was really good."
His unit listened as they racked up 357 yards on the ground with Marcellous Hawkins running for 167 on 21 carries and quarterback Kyron Drones adding 137, also on 21 carries. Bowling Green transfer Terion Stewart had 48 yards rushing.
Virginia Tech Quick Hitters
- The Hokies men's soccer team will close out the regular season at Clemson on Friday at 7 p.m. Virginia Tech, which is 7-3-4 overall and 2-3-2 in the ACC, is fighting for seeding in the ACC Tournament.
- Virginia Tech's volleyball team will host Clemson on Friday at 6 p.m., then Georgia Tech at 1 p.m. on Sunday. The Hokies are 9-12 overall and 1-9 in conference matches.
- The Hokies women's soccer team closed out the season with a 0-0 tie against Miami at Thompson Field. The Hokies, an Elite Eight team last year, are 4-10-4 and 0-8-2 in the ACC.