Franklin became Virginia Tech's head coach the same week the Nittany Lions are preparing for Senior Day at Beaver Stadium.

As the season draws to an end, decisions are imminent, Zoom interviews are frequent, and everyone is waiting for Lane Kiffin — for now.

Penn State interim head coach Terry Smith has spoken often with former Nittany Lions coach James Franklin since his dismissal last month. Although Smith was unable to watch Franklin be introduced Wednesday as Virginia Tech’s new coach, he said Wednesday night after practice that he’s “really happy” for his former boss.

DeBoer represents a major player in the Penn State search but also an long-shot hire. Alabama (8-2) is 10th in the latest College Football Playoff rankings and pursuing a spot in the 12-team field. The Crimson Tide finish the regular season with games against Eastern Illinois on Saturday and the Iron Bowl vs. Auburn on Nov. 29.

The quarterback, who suffered a left ankle fracture on Oct. 11 against Northwestern, underwent a successful surgery and has begun rehab. He still looks to be a present member on the team.

Penn State interim head coach Terry Smith sent the school a warning about recruiting after Virginia Tech hired James Franklin.

As James Franklin becomes the next leader at Virginia Tech, there is one college football program who could not land the former Penn State coach.