Franklin: Backup QB Race Still Open, Walk-On Earns Beamer's Number
Virginia Tech coach James Franklin said the backup quarterback competition remains undecided, with Bryce Baker currently holding a slight edge over Kelden Ryan and Troy Huhn. He also announced that walk-on George Ballance will wear No. 25 for the entire season, a special honor granted with Frank Beamer's permission, and will serve as special teams captain. The Hokies open against VMI on Saturday.
Franklin confirmed Ethan Grunkemeyer as the starter earlier this week, but the pecking order behind him remains fluid. Bryce Baker wore an orange game jersey at Wednesday's practice, signaling a slight lead over Kelden Ryan and Troy Huhn, who were in white scout jerseys. Franklin stressed the margin between all three has been razor-thin throughout camp.
Ballance's No. 25 designation marks a departure from Virginia Tech's usual game-by-game approach to that honor. The former walk-on, who earned a scholarship in December 2025, received Frank Beamer's personal blessing. Meanwhile, D.Q. Smith participated in individual drills but will sit out Saturday's opener due to NCAA acclimation rules, with Franklin confirming the ACC cleared his addition.
This story could resonate beyond Virginia Tech's fan base by highlighting how college football programs balance tradition with competitive depth. The No. 25 honor reinforces the value of walk-on perseverance, potentially inspiring overlooked athletes at any level. The backup quarterback uncertainty and D.Q. Smith's eligibility situation may also signal how roster rules and legal cases are reshaping team-building strategies across the sport, affecting players' opportunities and coaches' planning nationwide.