James Franklin wins head coaching debut with new school

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Matt Campbell was far from the being the only coach to have a solid showing in his debut with his new school. His predecessor at Penn State ended up having a pretty big day as well.

James Franklin won his head coaching debut with Virginia Tech on Saturday behind an offensive explosion against VMI. Virginia Tech's 73-3 victory was fueled in part by a handful of notable performances by some former Penn State players who chose to follow Franklin from Happy Valley to Blacksburg.

Ethan Grunkemeyer, now Virginia Tech's starting quarterback, passed for 224 yards and 2 touchdowns before giving way to his backup in the second half. Tight end Luke Reynolds was Virginia Tech's second-leading receiver with 5 catches for 50 yards and a touchdown. Defensive lineman Mylachi Williams recorded the first sack of his career in the first quarter. Messiah Mickens, a freshman running back who was set to join Penn State but ultimately stayed loyal to Franklin, had 5 carries for 23 yards in his college debut.

The Hokies out-gained VMI 619 to 83, and the defense held the Keydets to negative rushing yardage in the game (-4 yards). But it wasn't all rosy for Franklin's squad. Virginia Tech was flagged 11 times for penalties for a total of 93 penalty yards. Virginia Tech also lost the turnover battle, 2-1.

Virginia Tech's next game will be next Saturday against Old Dominion, coached by former Penn State offensive coordinator (under Franklin) Ricky Rahne. The Hokies are orchestrating a "white effect" for Lane Stadium for the game.

Penn State will be preparing for its first road game of the year, although it will be in Philadelphia against Temple.

This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: James Franklin wins head coaching debut with new school

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