After just a few weeks of searching, the Hokies have found Frank Beamer's replacement.
Confirming the growing speculation, the team announced the hiring of Memphis Tigers head coach Justin Fuente as the new head football coach this afternoon on Twitter.
OFFICIAL NEWS
Justin Fuente is Virginia Tech's next head football coach!
#WelcomeHOME pic.twitter.com/gY75yb2iPU— VT Football (@VT_Football) November 29, 2015
Defensive coordinator Bud Foster has also agreed to stay on under Fuente, in the same capacity. The fate of the rest of the staff remains unclear.
"We are thrilled to welcome Justin, Jenny and their three daughters into our Virginia Tech family," Athletic Director Whit Babcock said in a release. "We identified Coach Fuente as a top candidate early in our process. As our conversations progressed, we then met in person and it became obvious he is the right person to lead our football program. He possesses wisdom beyond his years, as well as a refreshing sense of humility and a calm confidence."
"Justin is a very impressive individual who also happens to be one of the brightest offensive minds in college football," Babcock said. "He elevated Memphis to unprecedented heights. His recruiting philosophy is progressive and comprehensive. Coach Fuente has displayed tremendous talent in evaluating players and developing young men as they strive to reach their full potential. Simply put, Coach Fuente exudes all the qualities that Hokies hold near and dear. We are excited to officially welcome Justin Fuente as the leader of the Virginia Tech football program."
Just yesterday, Babcock denied reports that such a deal was final.
Fuente will be introduced as head coach on Monday.
Comments
Kyle Bailey tweeted that Bud was being retained fwiw.
edit: Along with everyone else. Done deal.
The announcement doesn't say "along with everyone else", though I think you can assume that on the defense.
I'm guessing "along with everyone else" is the rest of the media is also saying Bud is retained. Everyone else = rest of media, not the rest of staff.
Oh, I see. Never mind then.
Hope not!!! Hope there is a evaluation of all assistants and if we can do better. The only sure keep would be Gray in my opinion.
Along with everyone else was meant to mean everyone from the media tweeting. Not our coaching staff staying around.
Exciting times Hokies! The rumored rebrand/new uniforms, a new coaching staff, and twelve straight over the Hoos.
Welcome, Justin!
EDIT: Foster Retained! http://www.hokiesports.com/football/recaps/20151129aaa.html
What's up with the rebrand? I haven't seen anything on this. Any links?
Just a rumor at this point. I heard new uniforms, and a few minor font changes across the AD.
Gotcha, thanks.
Let FoosBall begin gang! Love it.
http://www.hokiesports.com/football/recaps/20151129aaa.html
Next level Hokieboner right now.
I started following Hokie football in 1996. Maybe it is me and not Bud responsible for those sacks.
I understand he has been recruiting talent, coaching players and calling plays from the sideline but that could just be a coincidence.
What day is it??
A Great Day to be a Hokie!!!
Or more wins against loluva.
VT just confirmed Bud Foster is staying also. WHIT DID IT!!!
With all the chaos right now, glad we got our guy. All Hail Whit!
In the midst of this excitement, let me also take a moment to once again thank Frank Beamer. He built this program into what it is, making us an attractive, destination job for outstanding coaches. Upon the foundation he has laid, VT's future is very bright.
Thanks, Frank.
Beamer did the hard work to load the bases so Whit could come in and hit the Grand Slam.
Agree 100%. Whit nailed this, from start to finish - the announcement, the tributes, focusing attention on Frank, and then naming a top-notch successor.
Yes, Whit executed the shit out of this.
Let's put this into perspective... We just hired arguably the top young name available while jobs like USCe/w, Miami, Georgia, are all open. Who would have thought that would be possible 3 years ago?
Many hokies that were aboard the "beamer should retire" train early argued that we'd be able to replace Beamer with a high profile guy. We're a nationally respected program thanks to Frank. We're in one of the top recruiting states. We're a football first school with a good NFL pipeline. There's a lot to love about the opportunity.
Awesome point.
Of the hot names this year, Fuente built a program up from the ashes of NCAAf. Rhule inherited a not-terrible Temple, Herman took the reigns on a capital-P-Program at Houston, and Morris has maintained SMU at it's current level - at the bottom of the pile.
Of those mid-major coaches who are available this year, Fuente has done the most to prove his worth. And we got him over a bunch of other capital-P-PowerFive-Programs
I've been reading your posts for a long time, & I believe you suggested just that on more than one occasion...
That I did, and it'll be interesting to see what we are paying him, as I said we would go as high as around $4m to $5m, but I wasn't banking on keeping Foster. Would not be surprised if the combined salaries of the 2 is around $4.5m or so.
That said, what I meant was, sitting in the early part of year 2 under James Johnson and Jim Weaver still at AD, who would have thought we would be here now. I certainly didn't. The hiring of Whit literally changed everything about this program in a very good way.
We are paying $500k to Memphis for Fuente's contract, so you can add that in.
Also - Thank you Frank for not Bobby Bowdening us. It's not easy to give up something you've built your career, life and self-image around. From an outsider's view, Frank handled this like a pro, allowing our coaching change to be as smooth as possible.
Thank you Coach Beamer for uniting the fanbase and giving us one more example of your selflessness and love for Virginia Tech. Know now and forever that whenever anyone ask me what is a Hokie, I will proudly say "Coach Frank Beamer". God Bless Coach.
And also a lot of credit goes to Bud for not letting his ego get in the way and sticking around. I'm sure he wanted the HC job, but is staying in the same capacity for the greater good of the program. He could have said "screw you guys, I'm going elsewhere" but he didn't. Kudos to Bud for staying to finish what his mentor started.
Holy shit yes! It's finally over and just about as perfect as I could have dreamed. LETS GO BABY!
Is that Booger from Revenge of the Nerds?
Easy to confuse, as the man is such a fashion icon.
Whit Babcock for Person of the year. He saw everything a Hokie should be in Fuente and made the move.
I am very excited to see what Bud can do when the HC does not have a let the D win it philosophy. We got the ball within ten yards of FG range yesterday with 5 minutes to go, and I called that we would not pass again this game unless we let them score. Even London had to know that. Fitting way for Beamer to go out, but way too stressful on me and Bud's D. I know the D is always one of the best, but I am so ready for an offense the coach can be confident in. Awesome work Whit. I assume we are now the favorites to win the NC next year.
"I assume we are now the favorites to win the NC next year."
Well, obviously
ALL ABOARD THE 2016 HYPE TRAIN
LOL no doubt
I'm hyped. But, the hype trains associated with this football program the last couple of years have not fared well. I'll be cautious about jumping aboard another too soon.
Aw, c'mon, it'll be different THIS time, I promise. ;)
SOLD!!! What am I buying, now?
TICKETS! GLORIOUS TICKETS!
TICKETS TO GAMES.
TICKETS WITH TEAMS' NAMES.
TICKETS! TICKETS FOR ALL.
TICKETS FOR EVERY GAME PLAYED IN FALL.
BUY YOUR TICKETS
THEY'LL CURE YOUR RICKETS
DON'T BE A PUD.
WE'RE KEEPING BUD!
SO GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!
"I DON'T WANT TICKETS" YOU SAY?
BUY YOU A PRINTER, AND PRINT THEM TODAY!
"I'M A TRADITIONALIST, WHAT ABOUT ME"
GET NICE COMMEMORATIVE TICKETS WHEN WE PLAY MIAMI
AND IF WE GO BOWLING, WHAT DO I DO?
OPEN YOUR LAPTOP! PUT ON YOUR SHOES!
HOWEVER YOU HAVE TO MAKE SURE THAT IT'S RIGHT
BUY TICKETS! SOME GAMES ARE AT NIGHT!
Except when I shan't,
As sometimes I can't
I'm sorry to say,
But I live in Ohio
And maybe this year I may
Make my first bowl
We have reserved a hotel for
ND next year
We'll probably make Pitt
We'll make Bristol, that's clear
But we'll have offseason soon,
Which isn't much fun
Just waiting and waiting
For next season to have begun
When offseason hits
It's really the pits
We come to a place
called Speculate City
Where football gets swapped,
With guessing, not pretty
We get so confused
What teams will we face
Which QB to bet
On the next starting race
...and people just waiting
Waiting for some kids to commit
Or a transfer to appear
A flaw to admit
In a team you endear
For leaves to change color
But first there's a spring
And forever a summer
Until Bristol to ring...
Exactly. Fuente knows you need to keep the linemen from all sitting on one side of the train.
Its amazing how one announcement can relieve so much anxiety!
I'm. So. Excited!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Well, apparently you just can't hide it.
Those caffeine pills will get after ya!
FY16 and future opponents be like
Hell freakin yeah
Could not be happier
YES!!
Perfect.
Frank definitely needs/deserves his recognition but I hope Hokies everywhere embrace Fuente and give him their full support. I have already seen several people on different sites and social media outlets making statements like "he better be ready because he's got some big shoes to fill" or "I hope he's ready to meet our high expectations." While these statements may be true I hope we can make the Fuente family feel welcome and support them the same way we did/do the Beamer family.
Y'all know me so let me reiterate, just like always:
New coach gets 4 years to establish his identity. New evaluation period is the end of the 2018 season, full 2019 season
Reiterate early and often
I'd actually go one further and say 5 years. VT is changing from pro-style to spread option. I think 5 years minimum.
Big weekend for Hokie Football fellas. I really really think we are gonna like this guy and he will get it done. Everything has fallen into place perfectly. Fantastic work Whit.
By far the best outcome we could of hoped for. Also heard no Shane maybe going with smart to uga or usce
Shane is taking the Smart way out.
Wiles is staying, TG is likely staying. That's probably it.
Re Shane: as in, taking a job with Smart at UGA?
That's the rumor.
Yep, or at USCe. I think that following Smart would be good for Shane and he could thrive under his guidance.
That would be a great situation. Prevents a potential major conflict-of-interest here in Blacksburg. Fuente would be given free reign over offense and special teams. Shane would work in another elite staff with the possibility to get to the playoffs (probably greater than at VT).
We most definitely want his special teams coach - James Shibest
Shibeamer Ball? Shweet.
Good luck to the guys who aren't retained. I think he needs to keep a guy on O either Stiney or burden who have Va recruiting ties but I'm sure he has his guys who know what they're doing.
I'd love for Stiney to be the new recruiting guy in the front office. I do hope, though, that Burden has a spot, as I think the general reaction is that early returns on him as WR coach are positivie
Welcome aboard, Coach Fuente! Time to buzz the tower, GO HOKIES!
On another note, I'm still pissed at espn for spilling the beans on that yesterday during the game.
You shouldn't blame ESPN. The media's job is to break stories. You should blame whoever leaked it.
And honestly, ESPN (per usual) was the last to "break" the news. It had been circulating for at least an hour on other notable sites before they reported it. I think it was a touch overdone during the broadcast, but they were running with an interesting story while the two teams on the field were having a puntfest.
I will say. For us at the game, it was quite frustrating getting the news via text from friends. I wanted to be in full social media mode to read all the news, tweets, and reactions.
I would have traded places with you in a heartbeat, haha
Id bet the farm VT leaked it then for the national exposure.
No, Whit ain't like that.
... and Memphis was up 63-0 on a different channel. Good move by us.
It was great leaky news! No complaints here.
I really hope he keeps the helmets we wore yesterday. Love them!
Or brings back this one
Please, no.
The number of legs my comment has compared to the number of legs your comment has suggest that there is a strong positive sentiment attached to the fighting gobbler helmets.
The old "who has more legs" argument?
A bit on the nose, hmm HOAT?
You're right, sorry. I mean not to indict Key, who has my love, but merely point out that the pro-Gobbler helmet argument exceeds the anti-Gobbler-helmet position in fan support.
I love the helmet up close. I see the problem for the casual fan, especially from a distance. And the branding issue, so near and dear to Whit's heart.
It's not my favorite, but it's better than turkey tracks, I guess.
I will do anything to prevent ever having turkey tracks again up to and including stealing all the helmets.
Done! Your new helmets:
My idea would be to take the retro helmets with gloss finish and white face mask and slap on a fighting gobbler. No tapered stripe or matte finish. Full on retro treatment of a retro logo.
One of my favorite helmets ever. I would like to see us start handing out fighting gobbler helmet stickers for big plays like Georgia and OSU
I've always thought the Hokie Footprint would look awesome as a helmet sticker
We should use turkey legs for helmet stickers.
Get this man in front of Whit.
Lord no!
Christmas has come early for Hokie Nation! Welcome to Blacksburg, Coach Fuente!
This was handled as well as it possibly could have been...except for whoever leaked it. Either way, Welcome to Hokie Nation Coach Fuente. Keeping Bud is even better, I'm excited to see Fuente's offense combined with Bud's D; just the thought of what can be is so exciting!!! Whit for President in 2016!!!
It's remarkable to me just how good Whit is as our AD. He not only met, but managed to exceed what were very lofty expectations of the VT fanbase. Well done to all and welcome Coach Fuente!
Hello everyone who said Rich Rod was a done deal.
LOL, this is good!!!
From henceforth that name is banished from this site unless one is making fun of how bad his team is doing.
So as far as Fuente's offensive coaching staff choices, do you think he brings his people from Memphis' staff? Or does he have other staff connections that he will bring in from elsewhere?
I think he brings over as many as he can get. I did some reading on Memphis coaches; one thing that stuck out to me: I think Burden is better than Wiggins
When thinking about Coach Fuente and Coach Bud Foster together on the same staff:
.
.
I think we can finally all agree...
HHNNNGGGG
I know we are keeping Bud, but that UGA opening makes me a little nervous. Let's hope there are no surprises in the next few weeks. By all accounts, this is another freakin' home run by Whit.
I've read some reports saying that Wiles is staying but I'd love some confirmation on Gray. I'm worried he might leave to take on a bigger role elsewhere.
This is the only piece left of the puzzle that I'm dying to see fall into place like dominos in a house of cards. Check mate.
Until final confirmations are addressed, I am hoping for Torrian #1 and Wiles or Burden as #2. If we get all three, I'd be happy as a clam in a barrel, like the wily fish.
Let's not forget Beamer still has one game left. That being said, IM SO EXCITED!!
The ACC might be pretty tough in a couple of years. We snag Fuente. Orgeron wants the Syracuse job. Richt on the market and UVA & Miami looking. If Les bolted on LSU it'd serve them right.
I really hope he does and they get lost in the wilderness like Tennessee did
No word about loeffler or little Beamer being retained correct ? (Fingers crossed)
Loeffler does not work with Fuente being head coach.
I seriously think he should try NFL coaching. His scheme is complex, and not necessarily something that can be quickly picked up in college, but I could see it thriving in the NFL where you get years and years to develop a scheme with the same guys.
Maybe he could go be Tom Brady's "quarterback coach" again.
He'll be a QB coach somewhere
Exactly what I was saying several times during several games.
there has been chat board word on Lefty since Frank's announcement. All of the Asst coach contracts are up except Bud's.
Whit did it!!! Legs all around!!!
"You ever hire two greats whilst retiring a legend in style through the air?"
Whit has. Here he is explaining how.
Whit Babcock, even better at his job than legendary police constable Nicholas Angle...oops...I mean Angel. Phew, a man could get killed for that kind of mistake.
I logged in just to give you a turkey leg for this comment.
I can't wait to watch Bud's Defense play consistantly with significant leads where we can pin our ears back and go after the QB on obvious throwing downs. Great hire Hokies! Let's get Frank one more victory!
Like around 2000-2008 when we had above average talent on offense. SL's scheme and play calling left much to be desired and I don't believe he's Div 1 OC material, however there is no doubt that he helped elevate the talent level in his time here. Fuente isn't walking into a empty bench thankfully.
Current situation
Side note: Where has Jamie Lynn Sigler been?
Side note: Where has Jamie Lynn Sigler been all my life?
I looped this more times than I'm proud to admit
What a great weekend to be a Hokie! I am wondering how the bowl game will go coach wise. I suppose it depends on who is around, but I would think Frank will be focused on game prep, while JF will take a lower profile, focusing on recruiting players and staff for 2016.
I fully expect the current coaching staff to coach the bowl game. Fuente will be doing behind-the-scenes work only.
What kind of behind-the-scenes work will he be doing exactly? It seems to me like this would be a really weird scenario for both sets of coaches for the next month. I'm sure that Frank will be happy to mentor Fuente and get him up to speed on everything but I can't imagine that the current coaching staff that's not being retained would be as eager. Will the current staff be essentially interviewing to stay on staff? Will they have joint meetings old/new staff or do you think they will be operating independently?
Was just discussing this with a friend, actually. Fuente's job right now is twofold: (1) recruiting and (2) putting a staff in place. Until it shakes out, I don't know what his plan of attack will be. But you have to imagine the offensive side of the ball is going to get overhauled and defense will (hopefully) be largely left intact. But I doubt any coaching decisions will be official until after the bowl game. Most of the assistants have to know they're lame ducks at this point, better to just let them focus on their jobs and try to win the bowl game. My guess if Fuente observes the bowl practices while figuring all of this out, but I doubt there will be any new staff/old staff joint meetings or practices due to NCAA limits on number of coaches participating. I believe new HC hires can be present, but I think that's it (not sure).
Nice thanks for the info!
My question is what about if Lefty or any of the other Offensive staff get hired away- wouldn't they want to get to their new home as fast as possible? What happens then? I am so curious of what happens between now and bowl time.
Assistants rarely move around before bowl games. HC move around, interims coach the games, and we do the assistant shuffle afterwards. Even if Loeffler et al. line up new positions, they will not likely bail until after the bowl game. I think, especially with our guys, they have a sentimental attachment to Beamer to try to help him win one last bowl game.
Aren't there also possible financial benefits for coaches to winning a bowl game?
As in, paycheck bonuses?
Yes, I believe so.
Recruit like heck until Signing Day. Assemble his staff, and get them out recruiting.
Then, after Signing Day, get ready to start implementing his system and evaluating the players currently on roster.
After the Spring Game, learn his way around campus and get serious about 2017 recruiting.
I seriously hope that Beamer sits in the stands behind Fuente next year in game one and heckles him. All in jest, of course, but I think it would be hilarious.
[ Beamer on a lawn chair in the catwalk of the Beamer Barn ]
"That ain't how we used to do it! 23 straight, remember!"
[ cracks PBR ]
"I'm just giving you shit, palsy! Go out there and get after 'em!"
This is what I'm talking about!
[Beamer in row 1, 50 yard line, home-bench side in Beamer-Lane Stadium, after Lawson throws a 76-yd TD to Ford]
"Run it up the middle with Ferguson!"
[Ferguson, current VT strength coach]
"Coach, I'm on staff now, my eligibility ran out! I haven't played in a decade!"
[Fuente goes for 2-pt conversion, makes it]
"Beams, baby, we just scored 8, what do you want me to do?"
[Beamer, pouring a BudFosterBomb into a funnel (1/2 Budweiser, 1/2 Fosters, shot of Wild Turkey)]
"Go for 9!"
[Crowd laughs, enjoys victory]
This is the most Beamer thing ever.
would love to hear Fuente start this relationship off right with a "that coaching carousel'l get after ya" in his opening presser
Yassssss. Safe to say that French is already working on a breakdown of Fuente's spread offense?
I was about to say, who's ready for some excellent offseason film breakdowns? This should be a fun one too. Tons of tape from Memphis and TCU, an exciting offense, and I'm sure parallels to be drawn between former Frogs/Tigers and current Hokies. It's gonna be good.
I know we still have a bowl game to tend to, but I'm already excited for the Spring Game.
I've already thought this is going to be the longest offseason ever!
Yeah, and I thought this past offseason was long.
Welcome to Hokie Nation, Coach Fuente. Please make yourself and your offensive philosophies at home. :)
I'm really eager to hear contract details. Has this been reported anywhere?
This was my ideal scenario (or close, just behind Herman). Great hire by Whit!
Financial details will be released tomorrow morning, presumably coinciding with the 10 AM press conference.
They will be available tomorrow morning. ^
Have there been any reactions from our current players?
Of the players I follow on twitter, no. (PSA: never tweet at a player.)
Why? Tweeting at players as long as your friendly is no big deal. Tweetin at recruits NOOOOOO
Some of the VT handles constantly tweeting at recruits scares me so much. These are high schoolers that can change their mind in an instant. Even if the tweets are positive they may see a response that could sway them.
It's just not worth it. I've posted things on TKP while trying to be nice, or clever, or funny, but it backfires and comes off as offensive or rude. The downside of tweeting at a player is x1000 grater than the upside. "Just don't do it" seems like a good rule.
After a few beers do you drive home? I'm sure you feel fine, but a better rule is just don't do it.
I'm guessing they have been told to lay low for a day or so on social media. I would also hope they were told prior to the public announcement.
Lawson retweeted https://twitter.com/dlaw95 at Tino Ellis
"I turned down 12 other opportunities."
Wow.
Almost looks like the first few seconds weren't meant to be included in the final version of the interview and he was speaking candidly.
Kind of rude for them to include that in the final cut...
He also mentioned the other opportunities towards the end of the interview.
Oh my god whoever is giving this interview has the most annoying voice and way of talking. Certainly I'm not the only one who hated that?
HOLY COW, turned down 12 other opportunities... as in didn't even talk to them. Fuente gets how great of a job and opportunity VT is. Even though he didn't say it I think he really feels like he can do something special here especially with Bud's defense having his back.
For those that want to read it:
http://coachingsearch.com/article?a=Justin-Fuete-I-turned-down-12-other-...
to add to the, here is an ice quote:
This guy is becoming more of a perfect fit I think.
Tweet from Memphis TV station... apparently Fuente had numerous offers
Aww man, beat by 12 seconds
Per Rivals Memphis reporter:
Looks like that likely means Burden and Stiney are out.
We might miss Zohn recruiting in the 757. Otherwise I don't have any qualms with Fuente bringing his entire staff. They obviously know how to get things done.
Any news or speculation about Searls?
So doing some surface research this may not be what it seems. Wiggins is a former RB coach, and former RB in college. Maybe he is going to coach the RB's and Bureden stays on as the WR coach.
Doubtful, Darrell Dickey the co-offensive coordinator is their RB coach and has been one for years (decades?)
Edit to add: Assuming he comes.
Dickey is the interim head coach at Memphis so don't think he is coming.
I'd assume Memphis' assistants would coach their bowl like our assistants will coach our bowl.
I'd read that Odom was going to be offered the HC position but apparently there will be a more draw out search so who knows if he's does come or not.
Memphis was six in the country in special teams efficiency and they blocked a punt yesterday. Me likely.
I also expect Brad Cornelsen QB and Co OC and Vance Vice O Line to follow Fuente as well.
What a name
oh nooooo autocorrect ftw.. from vice to vince :(
his name is vance vice
What a name
Name so nice you posted it twice.
even thought it was supposed to be vice.
Still a cool name.
oh yeah, i was keeping the rhyme going.
Agreed. And if we retain Bud and Grey and Wiles, that leaves us with two spots to fill.
Need to find some regional recruiters. Look at UGA, UVA UMD and USCe staffs for best recruiters.
No kidding.
Need some help over here.
Just read on the Roanoke Times website that Mike "Timecop" London has resigned. 'Hoos up next?
Edit: Oops. I see there's a thread on it already. Nevermind.
Well BR is saying that Shane will be retained.
Keeping Shane for his recruiting isn't a bad move. I just don't know where you put him as a coach. It sounds like Fuente will be bringing his own offensive staff, and ST coach.
BR?
Probably Bleacher Report. You know, the bastion of journalism.
The Buzzfeed of sports
Bud will be retained until he finds an opportunity worth leaving for. I don't believe he has lost his drive to be a head coach.
And he's 56, needs to get started now. I honestly don't see him staying on the staff for next year, but maybe Whit has worked some magic who knows
I think foster knew it would look bitter and in poor taste to stomp out on the program. It's no secret that he wants to be a head coach. The correct move on his part was to stick around if he's wanted until he gets the opportunity he deserves (also, he's entitled to a salary through 2019"). I don't think there was any "Whit magic" involved. Just common sense on Buds part.
Awful lot of mind reading there. Could be he feels exactly like he said, and that he likes the direction Fuente says he's going to take the program.
Hell, I could meet you in the middle. He wants to be a HC, but he wants to see how Fuente runs things. If he likes it, he'll stay, if he doesn't, he'll bolt. Either way, I still stand by my previous statement. Bud staying (for now) is the smart move until something else comes up (not Whit magic).
That being said, Whit deserves all the credit in the world for getting Fuente. He's one of the few candidates that I would consider to be consistent with Whit's philosophy. If we were going to hire someone with HC experience, I don't think 1 year makes the difference. Fuente's 4 years make sense. Tom Herman/Chad Morris having only one year under their belts didn't make them significantly better candidates than Bud.
If you read Bud's contract that he just signed less than a year ago when he turned down Sumlin for the Aggies DC job, it's pretty clear Bud is sticking around, imho. He wanted to be the HC at Virginia Tech bad.... but he's sticking around town for a while.
Well he better go straight out to the recruiting trail. Wolfolk has flipped to UNC and Deablo is probably soon to follow (heard he was getting an earful from Logan Byrd at the State game). If Searls isn't retained then we probably lose Kearns, maybe another lineman, but who knows maybe with Fuente we have a shot at Dickerson.
Hard #sauces have Deablo opening his recruitment back up.
Tom
Herman
But in all seriousness I'm really excited about this hire. I think Whit really nailed this one. Fuente seems like a great fit and I'm pretty excited to see what he can do in Blacksburg. I'm also really excited that Whit/Fuente figured out a way to retain Bud. That's pretty critical. I never thought Bud would stick around but I'm really glad he is. Everyone here knows just how good he is at what he does.
The Fuente family has arrived.
damn you are fast posting that.
Pretty much camping out here and on Twitter all day today. Walking Dead marathon, VT coaching news, and pretty much no other obligations for the day!
Being a moderator, I imagine you don't have many obligations on the regular. I'm sure you do, but that's how it plays out in my mind.
I exist only in your imagination.
Smile, Daddy just more than doubled his income!!
Older lady, far left = mother-in-law?
Why, you interested? ;-)
I LOL'd at this.
LOL. Nah, I just figured that she came along to watch the kids.
Just 'bustin ya chops', as they say....
I like how they just gave his daughters a ridiculous amount of Hokie Swag right off the bat.
The plan is in effect, make those kids LOVE TECH thus dad won't leave.
Edit: what airport is that? Did they fly commercial?
I'm pretty sure that's the terminal building at the Tech airport.
I would assume that we either chartered a fight for him or had a booster send a private plane.
I mean what the fuck. We watch flight aware for that long and nobody is on top of it when the actual coach flies into town?
Amateurs!
I asked this earlier and nobody answered up.
I was looking around, didn't see anything coming in to Blacksburg or Roanoke at the time the Fuente family arrived that would intuitively match up based on origin or ownership of the plane.
How many flights does Blacksburg /VT airport get on normal days?
They used N51VT, which is unfortunately not publicly trackable:
N51VT
"This aircraft (N51VT) is not available for public tracking per request from the owner/operator"
Whit killed flight tracking!!!!!!!! hahaha
Well that's just not very sporting of the Virginia Tech Foundation.
Shhh, don't announce the hook before it's set!
So much that the poor kid can't even carry it all up the stairs...
The new first family looks good standing next to all of that orange and maroon!!
His kids seem to be enjoying it, too!
Kids be like "dad is famous." Love the welcoming group.
I love how much swag his little daughter has to carry' so unmanageable.
Side note, "let's go Hokies" loses some affect when only a few are chanting it...
Should have had "enter sandman" playing as he got off the plane.
Please, I can only get so hype. I can't handle all of this all at once.
Obviously Whit absolutely crushed the entire hiring process and sending Beamer off in style and in the correct manner. Cant wait for the Bowl Game too!
I can't remember another situation where a coach was retiring, and a new coach was hired. Where the coach will be on board to observe for the bowl game and while working through his transition.
Seems like a great plan to me!
Can "Huevos con Fuente" become a segment on Virginia Tech Sports Today? It would be exactly the same as the coach interviews they do now. But with eggs.
Was looking at the schedules for the next few years, hes got a pretty favorable schedule to start his first few years with. I dont expect 10 win seasons from the get go, but Im thinking at least 7 wins barring injuries the first few years.
Playoff run in 2017. Put it on your calendar!
*knock on wood* God, we really need a break from the injury bug...
Next year we have Tennessee and Notre Dame non-conference, two teams with playoff aspirations (assuming Tennessee continues the upward trajectory), plus UNC away. It will be a major challenge.
TKP staff better get a pot of coffee brewing, I have the feeling it is about to get busy around here for the next week!
And give credit to Whit.....he found a HC with experience beating LOLUVA......He was OC at TCU in 2009 when they beat the stuffing out of the London follies.
That day created this classic loluva moment, as well!
It must be a sign!
He is the messiah that was foretold to take us to the promised land.
I thought that happened just before they lost to W&M?
It was TCU for sure, but they did also lose to Bill & Mary the week before
Sitting here in Memphis watching the LAST Justin Fuente Show at UofM. Cannot wait for the press conference tomorrow. This guy's first class! Can we skip to next September.
Do you ship barbecue to fellow TKPers?
man, this is going to make for a long off season...can't wait to see what Fuente can do here at VT!
http://www.roanoke.com/sports/columns_and_blogs/blogs/andy_bitter_virginia_tech_football/justin-fuente-will-make-million-in-first-year-as-hokies/article_ec27bc72-976b-11e5-a070-7fcd3f70be05.html
Contract details are coming out, can't embed on phone.
3.2 million salary for Fuente, base of 500,000 rest 2.7, is supplemental. Staff salary is 3.4 million approved, can be upped with school approval.
Can someone embed Andy Bitter tweets?
Does this include Fosters Salary?
Yes it does.
So really its 2.4 Mil for a OC and the rest of the staff assuming BF doesn't get a huge raise. Should be interesting to see how that gets spent.
It depends on the "math" they use, is Fosters salary counted as yearly OR is it going to be lump sum again?
I've heard rumors of Bud getting bumped up to $1.4M. That would leave $2M for eight other positions, which seams reasonable.
Can I just say that Whit is absolutely A+
and also I really really like Fuente. I can't wait to see what he can do. I'm really glad he's got a 6 year deal. That's the right way to do it IMO
Is it me or does he A+ over use that phrase?
Another possibility.
Very impressed with Fuente's statements in the press conference. His life is a whirlwind right now, so he's still getting his bearings, but I like his demeanor and his broad goals. Especially struck me when he said he was big on mentoring his players and helping them become good people. "It's not just about the next 4 years, it's about the next 40." Solid view.
Yes I loved that about him. Another thing he said that struck a chord, although it was much more related to the actual football, was (paraphrased)
"Molding the personnel we have to get the most out of them is the most difficult and the most important thing to do"
when asked how he designs his offense. I think that is one of the failures of Scot Loeffler. I think SL is extremely well versed in the Xs and Os of his offense but he just couldn't force square pegs into round holes no matter how hard he tried. I think Loeffler's offense has the potential to be successful but there are too many moving parts and too many things have to align for it to happen. It's refreshing to hear a coach say that they need to work with the kids on they have on the roster and take principles from all types of offensive philosophies to build an offense around the talent that is present.
I was very impressed as well. He appears to hold a lot of the same values as Coach Beamer which I think is a huge plus! I also like how Fuente was Whit's number one choice all along and that he got the deal done in such a timely manner as Fuente gets two weeks to speak with recruits before the dead period.
On a side note, it sounds like there will be some more coaches (beyond the two already here) coming from Memphis once their bowl game is over.
I'm very excited about the future of VT Football and GO HOKIES!!
To be fair, I haven't watched a Memphis game in the last four years, let alone my entire life. However, I'll catch a highlight every now and then. Looking through the stats, what I loved is that the offense really spreads the wealth out. While Memphis has 1000+ more passing yards than us this season, no one came close to 1000 yards receiving. Nine receivers had double digit catches. There was a clear #1 receiver, who will be Ford, but loves to spread the wealth.
With the pieces we have, it's gonna be something special to watch, and stop. Of course, there will be learning curves and growth, especially with either Lawson or Jackson playing QB.
I'm still not sleeping on Motley.
Great kid. Tremendous heart, but he didn't exactly lead us to wins. I'm sure he'll get first dibs, and rightly so, but not sure how he fits in with a more spread oriented offense. But, I hope he gets his chance to prove himself.
I could have sworn we won 3 games with him at QB. Really though NC State was probably the most complete game we played this year and Motley was quite good in it. He needed to be much more consistent but overall I was pleasantly surprised with his play.
Yeah I am fairly certain he won half of our games this year and one could argue the offense was better with him if you include that McMillian wasn't the horse he is now.
Whit is the fucking man.
Fuente seems like a great fit. He spent a good bit of time talking about how VT was the right place for his family and raising his children here. I think he will do big things here.
The amazing thing he did at Memphis was starting with 51 scholarship players. He has a bunch of talent and decent depth to work with here so I am not expecting the world in year 1, but I don't think it will take very long to see positive results.
I'm going to pretend like I'm a Tennessee fan for a minute and say that I totally foresee a National Championship soon after watching that press conference. "We're back!"
Coach Fuente's twitter page has been updated. It looks sweet.
That was tOSU game. It definitely looked sweet on TV, if not on the scoreboard.
Don't hate me for this guys but I got a nice little chuckle going back to this 4 years later.
This hurts
How in the fuck did he manage to fool so many people?
Justin, maybe. Brad, no.
If Justin knows offense so well how could he let someone as evidently incompetent as Brad coach the offense that Justin's reputation rests on for 4 years?
The utter lack of offense is a pretty serious indictment on Fuente. He was brought here as a coach who knew offense to pair with Bud Foster. He has failed spectacularly. Blame Cornelson, rightly so, if you want but Fuente shouldn't have ever let someone like him drag him down. If Justin can't see Brad failing at his job Justin doesn't deserve the job he has.
Nepotism. Not much worse than when Beamer was in charge. The only difference was that we had a decent-enough defense to make up for the offense's shortcomings.
I watched the Memphis/Navy game. Memphis was tough, physical, played great D, offense moved well and had rhythm. We showed none of those things.
This should be an example for all schools why you don't over pay for a coach who has proven nothing. How the fuck did we give him this contract? And don't tell me it's the current market. I'd rather have Mike London at this point, at least we'd have a better incoming recruiting class. Not really but you get the point
I mean, 1.5 seasons ago we were freaking out about Fuente leaving for FSU or UF. At the time the extension seemed wise.
Actually this is a perfect example of how and why schools give contract extensions. Just read the comments in this thread and other threads after Y1. Not just essentially 100% positive, but largely exemplary.
Contract extensions are a binary decision and given contemporaneously. Hindsight isn't.