You Won't Believe What Pry Plans to Change Under Franklin in College Football – Shocking Secrets Revealed!

Virginia Tech head coach Brent Pry on the sidelines against Old Dominion during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, in Blacksburg, Va. (AP Photo/Robert Simmons)

In an unusual turn of events in the world of college football, Brent Pry, a native of Altoona, found himself returning to the sidelines of Virginia Tech not as the head coach, but as the defensive coordinator. After being dismissed from his role as head coach in September following a challenging 0-3 start to the season and a lackluster record of 16-24 during his tenure, Pry is now under the guidance of his long-time friend and former boss, James Franklin. The dynamics of this situation highlight both the challenges and bonds forged in the high-stakes environment of college athletics.

Pry expressed relief at stepping back into a role that allows him to focus on what he does best: coaching. “Absolutely,” he remarked during a media availability, emphasizing how he missed the deeper engagement with the defensive unit during his time as head coach. “This has been really refreshing. It’s a completely different job task, and I like it a ton more.” His sentiment resonates with many coaches who thrive on the X’s and O’s rather than the administrative burdens that come with head coaching positions.

The relationship between Pry and Franklin is a focal point of this transition. Having coached together for 11 seasons at Vanderbilt and Penn State, their familiarity breeds a sense of comfort in navigating this unique situation. “By the end of day one, working with James again felt really good and comfortable,” Pry noted. This camaraderie could prove beneficial for the Hokies as they seek to regain their competitive edge in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), an environment that may provide more manageable challenges compared to the Big Ten or SEC.

The unfolding narrative is not just about football; it speaks to the realities of professional sports where loyalty, humility, and professional relationships come to the fore. After his dismissal, Pry engaged in soul searching, questioning whether returning to Virginia Tech was the right move for him and his family. Ultimately, he decided he could embrace the opportunity. “I wanted to be able to walk back in the building and be myself – be positive and be appreciative,” he explained. The supportive environment at Virginia Tech, where he has roots and family ties, played a significant role in easing his transition.

Pry's return isn’t just about personal redemption; it involves rebuilding trust with the Hokies' upperclassmen and the administration, who had previously dismissed him. Franklin ensured that Pry's rehire was met with support from the players; the gesture of a standing ovation during a team meeting underscored the positive reception he received from the squad, marking a significant moment in his transition back to the program.

The complexities of this situation are multifaceted. Not only does it highlight the challenges of coaching in high-pressure environments, but it also showcases the importance of strong relationships and the ability to adapt. Pry and Franklin's reunion exemplifies how collaboration can lead to a renewed sense of purpose, not just for the coaches but for the team as a whole. As they work together to build a competitive defense, the Hokies may just find themselves on a path to recovery in the upcoming seasons.

For Brent Pry, this chapter is not merely about a second chance but a reaffirmation of his commitment to a program he loves deeply. With the backing of his family and the new coaching staff, he appears poised to once again leave his mark on Virginia Tech football. As the season progresses, the dynamics within the coaching staff and the culture they foster will be critical factors in determining the Hokies' future success on the field.

In the high-stakes world of college football, where the line between success and failure can be razor-thin, the story of Brent Pry serves as a reminder that resilience, relationships, and a passion for the game can prevail against the odds.