to put themselves in the best position to secure a spot in a P2 conference if the opportunity presents itself at some point in the future. Some people and even history may view Indiana's national championship as a "Cinderella" story simply because the program is considered a non-blue blood in football. However, it may not be that much of a "Cinderella story" because Indiana benefitted from having access to P2 money. Hence why I am saying the debate is a chicken-egg one because access to the P2 money is a factor at some level and can't be ignored. Likewise (and tying back to the OP), it does suggest this may be a trial run for VT to see if it can truly exist in the P2 world and all the "requirements" in that world. FWIW TSL has a video where it interviewed one of the big donors who is also on the BoV right after VT hired Franklin. The current BoV believes FBS "big time" college football is eventually heading to a P2 World and they want VT to be apart of that world (if possible). If the BoV wants that dream to come to fruition, then they believe VT will have to make certain decisions to realign multiple things within the Athletic Department and even the fan base. The hyperlink is where you can watch the interview for free on YouTube. ** Edited by VTHokie2000 at 2/4/2026, 11:18:09 PM ** Edited by VTHokie2000 at 2/4/2026, 11:23:14 PM