RECRUITING: Virginia Tech/Virginia Rivalry is Escalating

Originally posted on Mike Farrell Sports
By Mark Pszonak | Last updated May 4, 2026 9:14 AM ET

While there are lingering questions about James Franklin’s coaching abilities in big games, there are far less regarding his recruiting prowess. The new Virginia Tech head coach showcased this on Sunday with a flip of a four-star in-state wide receiver who had been committed to rival Virginia.

Demarcus Brown committed to Virginia in early December. Less than two weeks later he was offered by Coach Franklin, who was still in the early stages of his Hokies tenure. While he was still new to the job, Coach Franklin quickly targeted Brown as a priority.

Over the next four months, Coach Franklin was able to chip away at Brown’s commitment to Virginia, eventually gaining the flip on Sunday. This commitment marks the first major flip of the cycle for Coach Franklin, who has prioritized keeping top in-state talent within Virginia.

A standout at North Cross School in Roanoke, Brown, 6-foot-3 and 180-pounds, recorded 53 receptions for 1,112 yards and 14 touchdowns last season. He is Virginia Tech’s ninth Class of 2027 commitment, with seven coming in the last three weeks.

As for Virginia, they are now down to five Class of 2027 commitments after losing their highest-rated recruit. The Cavs haven’t received a commitment since February 2^nd, while enduring two decommitments during this time. Before Brown, tight end Sean Currie decommitted on March 12^th.

Also, it is worth noting that Virginia Tech is actively recruiting other Virginia commitments, most notably teammates defensive end Camden Chalkley (Midlothian, Va.) and wide receiver Landon Hicks (Midlothian, Va.), and safety Derek Fisher (Hampton, Va.).

The Virginia Tech/Virginia rivalry has the potential of ratcheting up a few levels before the 2026 season even begins.

This article first appeared on Mike Farrell Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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