James Franklin officially named Ethan Grunkemeyer the Virginia Tech starting quarterback Monday as the Hokies prepare to open the season against VMI.
The move was widely expected after Grunkemeyer followed Franklin to Virginia Tech from Penn State. Grunkemeyer started the final seven games for the Nittany Lions last season after Drew Allar got hurt, winning his final four games. In 11 total appearances, Grunkemeyer threw for 1,339 yards and eight touchdowns, and he added one TD rushing.
Franklin was fired midway through the season last year at Penn State and ultimately took the Virginia Tech job in November. In discussing Grunkemeyer at his weekly news conference in Blacksburg, Virginia, Franklin said the quarterback had led the QB1 competition over the past few weeks.
"I think he has his teammates' respect. I think there's a level of consistency and maturity."
Franklin said the backup quarterback job remains an open competition.
