Virginia Tech Quarterbacks Coach Hire Signals James Franklin’s Clear Vision

James Franklin has hired his former player and trusted assistant, Danny O’Brien, as Virginia Tech’s new quarterbacks coach. The news was reported by ESPN’s Pete Thamel on December 10. This move continues Franklin’s methodical effort to build a familiar program in Blacksburg.

O’Brien is the latest in a series of staff and recruiting flips from Penn State to Virginia Tech. Franklin clearly values deep, pre-existing relationships as he constructs his first Hokies roster.

A Reunion Decades in the Making

The connection between Franklin and O’Brien is foundational. O’Brien played quarterback at Maryland from 2009-2010. Franklin was the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach there at that time.

O’Brien earned ACC Rookie of the Year honors under Franklin’s guidance. Their professional paths diverged when O’Brien transferred and Franklin became a head coach. Franklin later brought O’Brien onto his Penn State staff as an analyst in 2021.

He promoted O’Brien to quarterbacks coach for the 2024 season. There, O’Brien worked directly with starters Sean Clifford and Drew Allar. Franklin often praised O’Brien as a “rising star” in the coaching profession.

Penn State’s Loss is Virginia Tech’s Gain

This hire is a significant piece of Franklin’s Virginia Tech puzzle. O’Brien brings an intimate understanding of Franklin’s offensive philosophy and cultural expectations. He is not just a coach, but a product of the system Franklin is now installing.

For new Penn State head coach Matt Campbell, the departure creates an opening. Campbell may now bring his own quarterbacks coach, like Jake Waters from Iowa State, to Happy Valley. This is a common practice during major coaching transitions.

At Virginia Tech, O’Brien will be tasked with developing a critical position group. His success will be directly tied to the early performance of Franklin’s rebuilt offense. Fans hope this trusted partnership translates quickly to on-field success.

This strategic hiring of Danny O’Brien underscores James Franklin’s commitment to a known blueprint. The new Virginia Tech quarterbacks coach represents continuity and trust. It is a calculated step in a comprehensive rebuild.

Dropping this nugget your way

Who is Danny O’Brien?

Danny O’Brien is a former college quarterback who played for James Franklin at Maryland. He later worked for Franklin for five years at Penn State, most recently as quarterbacks coach.

Why did he leave Penn State for Virginia Tech?

O’Brien left to reunite with James Franklin, his former coach and mentor. Franklin is assembling his initial staff at Virginia Tech and prioritized bringing in trusted aides.

Who will replace O’Brien at Penn State?

New Penn State head coach Matt Campbell is expected to hire his own staff. Reports suggest Iowa State quarterbacks coach Jake Waters could follow Campbell to State College.

How does this affect Virginia Tech’s offense?

It ensures the quarterbacks are taught by a coach who deeply understands Franklin’s system. This should accelerate the installation of the new offensive scheme in Blacksburg.

How many Penn State staffers have joined Franklin?

O’Brien is at least the second on-field coach to follow Franklin, joining reported offensive coordinator Ty Howle. Numerous support staff and recruits have also made the move.