James Franklin Challenges Virginia Tech Freshman Players

The head coach pushed younger players to improve their engagement during the team's mid-season open week.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Football

Expressive sports illustration of college football players in maroon and orange uniforms, emphasizing the intensity of training drills. — Virginia Tech head coach James Franklin challenged freshman players to increase their engagement and preparation levels during the team's recent open week. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Virginia Tech head coach James Franklin addressed freshman players regarding their engagement levels during the team's recent open week. The coach expressed concern that some freshmen were displaying a mentality of not playing instead of actively preparing to contribute.

Why it matters

Franklin aims to ensure depth remains sharp as the team navigates the remainder of their season. The open week provided a necessary window for injured players to rest while forcing younger athletes to focus on readiness for future competition.

Virginia Tech currently holds a 6-2 overall record and a 3-2 standing in the ACC. The team features a depth chart where Ethan Grunkemeyer has played every offensive snap over the last six games.

The players

James Franklin

He is the head coach of the Virginia Tech football program and formerly coached at Vanderbilt and Penn State for 15 seasons.

Ethan Grunkemeyer

He is a football player who has played every offensive snap for Virginia Tech over the team's last six games.

Bryce Baker

He is a player for the Virginia Tech football team who appeared in the first two games of the current season.

The details

During open week practices, which included sessions on Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, the coaching staff increased repetitions for third-string players to evaluate their progress. Franklin, who previously spent 15 seasons as a head coach at Vanderbilt and Penn State, stressed the need for higher participation standards.

Late June 2026: The NCAA adopted a new age-based eligibility model.
Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026: James Franklin spoke with reporters regarding his team.
Friday, Nov. 6, 2026: Virginia Tech faces an away game against No. 19 SMU.

Season Trajectory

The team's focus on developing freshmen is essential for maintaining momentum following high-stakes victories against Clemson and Georgia Tech. Improving depth now directly impacts their ability to compete against ranked opponents like No. 19 SMU.

Fans can expect a tighter rotation in upcoming games as the coaching staff emphasizes player engagement and preparation. Increased reps for younger players during the open week suggest that depth chart adjustments may influence future game-day performance.

The takeaway

Maintaining consistent engagement is critical for young players looking to secure a spot in the rotation as the season reaches its final stretch. Coaches prioritize mental preparation as much as physical skill to ensure all squad members are ready for late-season challenges.