Frank Beamer gets 2-year extension

Virginia Tech has extended head coach Frank Beamer's contract two years, through Jan. 1, 2019, the school announced Wednesday.

"I believe in him, I see where we're headed so a show of support for a Hall of Famer, the winningest [active] coach in college football, it will help us recruiting wise and then hopefully it eliminates some of the distractions during the year," Virginia Tech athletic director Whit Babcock told ESPN.com's Andrea Adelson.

"I just thought it was the right thing to do for the right guy at the right time and we feel like it's good for Virginia Tech," Babcock said. "Like everybody's contract, time will tell."

The 67-year-old Beamer starts his 28th season as the Hokies' head coach Saturday as they host William & Mary. His 266 career wins are the most among active head coaches.

"Coach has the fire and desire to compete and I know age is something people talk about, but I don't get too caught up in that, Steve Spurrier's done pretty darn good, Nick Saban, Bill Snyder and a number of them," Babcock said. "He's exceeded my expectations as a man and coach and educator in my time here. I support him and I'm looking forward to a great year here and hopefully many more."

Beamer and his staff have come under scrutiny after winning just 15 total games over the past two seasons, after a run of eight straight seasons of at least 10 wins. The hiring of Babcock as the school's AD this winter only added to speculation that this could be a make-or-break year for Beamer.

"As I've stated numerous times, the only job I desire is right here at Virginia Tech," Beamer said in a statement. "My passion and commitment have been further energized with the arrivals of President (Tim) Sands and Whit Babcock and the leadership and vision they provide. I am appreciative of the confidence they continue to show in me and our football program. I can honestly tell you that our program currently stands atop a rock-solid foundation. This coaching staff is the best I've ever had. We've had an influx of talented, young student-athletes into our program and we're hard at work recruiting more just like them.

"So, I'm confident in the character and talent of our coaches, players and support staff. Then, you see this impressive, state-of-the-art indoor practice facility on its way up, which shows the continuing dedication from this university, its people and our fans, and our future can only be bright. I'm proud of where we've been, and I'm extremely excited about where we're going."

Information from ESPN.com's Andrea Adelson contributed to this report.