Former Virginia Tech head coach Frank Beamer debuts on College Football Hall of Fame ballot

In news that should surprise no one, legendary former Virginia Tech head football coach Frank Beamer made the ballot for the 2018 College Football Hall of Fame on Thursday morning.

Beamer, who retired after the 2015 season, finished his career with a record of 238-121-2 during his 29 years as head coach of the Hokies and led the team to 23 consecutive bowl appearances. New head coach Justin Fuente extended that streak to 24 following his first season in 2016.

Overall, Beamer finished with a career record of 280-143-4 as he spent six seasons as head coach of Murray State before returning to Blacksburg to coach his alma mater. When Beamer retired, he was the winningest active coach in the FBS.

While Beamer is finally getting his national recognition, he is and will always remain a legend in Southwestern Virginia. He put Virginia Tech football on the map and made the Hokies a national contender for years. He led Tech to an appearance in the 1999 national championship game, something that would’ve been unheard of prior to his arrival in Blacksburg.

Beamer won numerous coach of the year awards during his career. He was Big East coach of the year three times and ACC coach of the year on two occasions. In 1999, he was national coach of the year. He won several other coaching awards during his career, too.

If you’re wondering why Beamer is on the ballot so soon, it’s because he’s over 70 years of age and is eligible immediately. Otherwise, it’s a three-year wait from your last game.

The Hokies are certainly in good hands with Fuente for years to come, but it wouldn’t be possible if not for Frank Beamer and his family. The next step for honoring Beamer should be a statue outside of Lane Stadium.

Congrats, Coach Beamer.