Virginia Tech Practice Update Following March 31 Session

Virginia Tech Head Coach James Franklin spoke with reporters on Tuesday, March 31, following the team's practice session. Franklin provided insights into the team's current operational setup and player evaluations.

Facility Utilization and Coaching Adjustments

Franklin noted the benefits of practicing near the stadium, allowing the team to conduct necessary individual work and teaching periods in a spacious environment before transitioning to the stadium for live drills. This setup has been "really good" for their preparation.

A notable early adjustment this year involved Ty Howle moving into the booth to begin working there, which Franklin deemed "excellent." He also mentioned that the coaching staff has implemented positional changes discussed the previous week.

Positional Changes and Quarterback Development

The relocation of some players has opened up more meaningful repetitions for other quarterbacks, which Franklin views as a "win-win for everybody." He acknowledged that these moves were difficult for some players but ultimately necessary to position everyone for success.

Regarding AJ, Franklin highlighted his positive performance playing both wide receiver and Wildcat quarterback, noting he scored a couple of touchdowns during the session. Franklin emphasized that his role as head coach is to maximize success for both individuals and the team.

Quarterback Evaluation: Standout Performances

Franklin praised one unnamed quarterback for an "unbelievable scrimmage" on Saturday, where he threw four touchdowns efficiently with only one interception. This player was described as calm, poised, smart, and "wired the right way."

Another player, Troy, also stood out significantly during that same scrimmage, jumping out to Franklin more than others. The coach stressed the importance of evaluating quarterbacks in live game situations to assess their ability to move, make decisions, and perform when contact is possible.

To properly evaluate quarterbacks who lack college game experience, Franklin plans to hold a scrimmage where they will be live. This is crucial because standing in the pocket during drills is unrealistic compared to live action where they can be hit.

Competition and Depth Building

Franklin reiterated his goal of establishing a "three-deep" roster at every position, noting that competition is much higher now than when he first arrived. He feels many players are embracing this competitive environment, though he is still evaluating many moving parts.

When asked about naming a starter early, Franklin stated he prefers to keep competition alive as long as possible, believing it benefits everyone. He added that players recognize who the leaders are based on trust and respect, regardless of an official announcement.

Franklin confirmed that the live contact level during drills is "low as it goes" unless he blows the whistle quickly, simulating game conditions for Saturday's practice.

In-Depth Look at a Key Quarterback Prospect

Franklin provided extensive praise for a young quarterback, noting his poise and background as a coach's kid whose father played college football. This player understands the game intuitively and showed significant improvement in mobility from his junior to senior year after emphasis was placed on that area.

The coach stressed that the quarterback position demands a lifestyle commitment, pointing to this player's 6 a.m. presence and extra field work. He is very smart, poised, and knows his role, having developed as a runner last year, which must continue.

Recruitment efforts were aided by strong existing relationships; the player frequently visited campus even while in California. His father recently attended practice, then traveled to East Carolina to watch his sister play basketball, showing strong family support.

Running Back Standouts

There is significant excitement surrounding Overton, described as quick, smart, tough, elusive, and football-savvy, with potential as a receiving threat. Overton has separated himself slightly in the running back group, currently weighing around 205 pounds and potentially reaching 210 next year.

Hawkins, who is a large back at about 225 pounds, has also impressed Norval. While other backs are still being evaluated, Bill has shown flashes but lacks consistency compared to Overton.

Defensive Transition Under Brent Pry

The transition of Brent Pry taking over defensive coordinator duties while Franklin serves as head coach has been "smoother than I would have thought." Pry has handled the shift flawlessly, jumping right back into leading the defense.

Franklin noted a key personal lesson: he is more involved in the offense than in a while, which is possible because he trusts Pry completely on defense. He still checks in on defense occasionally but focuses the majority of his time on the offense.

Quarterback Competition Depth

Franklin confirmed that there are "legitimately three or four quarterbacks that are battling" for roles. He expressed satisfaction with recruiting Bryce, noting that prior issues at his former school did not reflect the talent they saw.

Recruiting relationships were vital, as Danny's high school coach was also Bryce's high school coach, and those connections with Grunk and Troy were also important factors in securing commitments.