After more than 40 years, Virginia Tech and VMI faced each other again. This renewed rivalry between the teams became historic. On September 5, 2026, VMI traveled to Blacksburg to play the Hokies for the 80th time. The Hokies held a 50-25-5 advantage in the series. This game was important due to them not playing one another since 1984. This year’s game was even more important because it was the start of the James Franklin era.
Photo Cred: Virginia Tech
The Hokies hired Franklin as their head coach in November 2025. He entered the game with high expectations for the season. Lane Stadium’s home opener drew a sold-out crowd. This allowed Franklin to witness Hokie Nation’s fierce energy for the first time. Virginia Tech quickly showed that they were the better team by dominating from the opening kickoff. They built a 45-0 lead at halftime before ending the game with a 73-3 victory.
Quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer had an impressive debut for the Hokies, completing 17 of 20 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns. Backup quarterback Bryce Baker also played well, completing 10 of 12 passes for 127 yards and a touchdown. Running backs Jeffrey Overton Jr. and Marcellous Hawkins also had great games, combining for five rushing touchdowns. Wide receiver Que’Sean Brown also played well, recording 6 receptions for 109 yards and a touchdown. The Hokies also dominated on special teams.
Virginia Tech blocked two punts, with one being recovered for a touchdown. The defense also played a great game by limiting VMI’s offense to 83 total yards and helping the Hokies dominate all four quarters. The final score was heavily in Virginia Tech’s favor, but the game was important outside of the scoreboard. For VMI, this matchup gave them the opportunity to play in a historic rivalry between the two teams that hadn’t been played for 42 years.
Photo Cred: Roanoke
For Virginia Tech, it gave them the opportunity to celebrate the past and the beginning of the new chapter under Franklin. The 73-3 result gave the Hokies the dominant start they were looking for. Whether the teams meet more regularly again is still unknown, but the 2026 game proved that the VMI-Virginia Tech rivalry still has plenty of meaning for both schools and their fans.
