James Franklin uses off week to watch Virginia Tech RB commit in action.

James Franklin made an appearance at Benedictine Military School to watch a future Hokie on Thursday night. Smart tallied two touchdowns as the Cadets rolled to a 49-6 win over Groves on senior night.

Smart, who committed to Virginia Tech in April, picked the Hokies over offers from Auburn, Texas Tech, Georgia Tech, Illinois and others. This is Franklin's first season at the helm for Virginia Tech, after previously spending 12 seasons at Penn State and three at Vanderbilt.

Last season, Smart totaled 1,004 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, and is already sitting at 10 touchdowns this season. Also a track and field athlete, Smart placed second in the 100-meter dash at the 2026 GHSA Class 4A State Championship with a personal best time of 10.52 seconds.

The Hokies return to action on Friday, Nov. 6 with a big matchup against No. 19 SMU.