Virginia Tech football: Are the Hokies moving forward with John Love as the starting kicker?
James Franklin weighs in on Virginia Tech’s kicking situation.
John Love, a standout kicker for the Virginia Tech Hokies, has struggled this season in his final year in Blacksburg. Despite being one of the best kickers in college football prior to the 2026 season, Love has missed several field goals, including a crucial 36-yard attempt against Pitt last weekend. The Hokies' head coach, James Franklin, has remained behind Love, but the confidence issues have led to a debate about Love's future as the team's primary kicker.
Franklin has assured that there will be a competitive situation for both punting and kicking duties. Freshman kicker Will Love, John Love's brother, has also stepped up and could be a strong contender. The situation is complicated further by the poor performance of the punter, Nathan Totten, who has averaged only 41 yards per punt this season.
The next game for the Hokies is against Georgia Tech on Saturday at Lane Stadium. With Love's confidence seemingly shaken and the competition for the kicking position heating up, the fans will be eagerly watching to see how the situation unfolds.
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