Penn State Must Part Ways with James Franklin After Northwestern Loss
Penn State’s football season in 2025 has been filled with disappointments, leading to speculation about the future of head coach James Franklin. Once viewed as a contender for a national championship following a strong 2024 season, the Nittany Lions are now struggling to find their footing.
Penn State’s Current Record and Future Outlook
The Nittany Lions began the season with high expectations but currently hold a 3-3 record. They have suffered defeats against formidable opponents, including:
- UCLA (31-21)
- Northwestern (29-10)
- Oregon (38-24)
With upcoming games against Iowa, Ohio State, Indiana, and Nebraska, some analysts predict Penn State could finish the season with a disappointing 3-9 record. This outcome would be unacceptable, prompting discussions about Franklin’s future.
Statistics Behind Franklin’s Tenure
James Franklin’s coaching record is under scrutiny, particularly against ranked teams. His performance includes:
- Record against AP Top 10 teams: 4-21
- Previous three-season record (2022-2024): 34-8
The stark contrast between past successes and current struggles has led to increasing pressure for a change.
The Impact of Injuries and Coaching Decisions
Compounding the situation, quarterback Drew Allar has been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a leg injury. His absence has hindered the team’s performance further. Critics point to the lack of adjustments from coordinators Andy Kotelnicki and Jim Knowles, raising questions about the coaching staff’s effectiveness.
Franklin’s Response and Future Considerations
Following the loss to Northwestern, Franklin expressed his concerns about his players’ morale and the fans’ frustration. He emphasized the need to “stick together” and focus on improvement. However, the team’s current trajectory suggests it may be time for Penn State to explore new leadership.
In what seems like an inevitable conclusion, Penn State may soon part ways with James Franklin. The question remains: how quickly will the university act to find an interim replacement?
