Penn State Dismisses Coach James Franklin After 3-3 Season Start
Penn State University has officially dismissed head football coach James Franklin following a disappointing 3-3 start to the season. This decision comes after a narrow 22-21 defeat to Northwestern at Beaver Stadium, marking the team’s third consecutive loss.
Penn State’s Struggles and Coaching Changes
Franklin’s tenure with the Nittany Lions began in 2014. He took over a program facing significant challenges due to NCAA sanctions from the Jerry Sandusky scandal. Despite initial struggles, Franklin eventually guided Penn State to notable achievements.
- 2016 Big Ten Championship.
- Six seasons with double-digit wins.
- Five New Year’s Six bowl appearances.
- Participation in the first 12-team College Football Playoff in 2024.
Interim Leadership and Financial Implications
Following Franklin’s termination, associate head coach and cornerbacks coach Terry Smith has been appointed as the interim head coach. Franklin’s dismissal includes a substantial financial consideration. Under the original 2021 contract, Penn State is required to pay a $56 million buyout. However, an amendment in 2024 may have altered these terms.
Franklin’s Legacy and Performance Metrics
Throughout his nine-year career at Penn State, Franklin compiled a record of 104 wins and 45 losses, tying him for second most wins in program history alongside Rip Engle. He enjoyed a solid run, but consistently struggled in high-stakes games. His record against top-10 opponents stands at 4-21, and he has only managed a single win against rival Ohio State, which has long been viewed as a benchmark for success in the Big Ten Conference.
Franklin expressed accountability for the team’s performance, stating, “I take full responsibility for what’s happened this season.” His focus was on the players and the challenges they face, acknowledging the frustration felt by both the team and the fans.
A Dream Job No More
Franklin, originally from Langhorne, Pennsylvania, had described Penn State as his “dream job” during his introductory press conference in 2014. Despite the initial promise he brought to the program, the recent losses to UCLA and Northwestern created an untenable situation leading to his dismissal.
With Franklin now out, the Nittany Lions will look to turn the page as they seek to revitalize their football program under new leadership. The university aims to rebuild and reclaim its competitive edge in college football.
