“James Franklin’s Firing from Penn State Deemed Unfair”
The recent firing of James Franklin from Penn State has stirred significant reactions within the college football community. Franklin was dismissed following a disappointing home loss to Northwestern on Sunday, October 17, 2025. This decision has raised questions about its fairness and the contributions he made during his tenure.
Franklin’s Public Reaction to His Firing
Shortly after his dismissal, Franklin made a public appearance on ESPN’s College GameDay in Athens, Georgia. During a ten-minute discussion, he shared his immediate feelings about being terminated. “That was it. It was that quick,” Franklin remarked, reflecting on how he learned about his firing.
Support from Nick Saban
His situation gained further attention when College GameDay analyst Nick Saban, a renowned figure in college football, spoke out against the decision. Saban emphatically stated that Franklin’s firing was “unfair as hell.” He highlighted the achievements Franklin led at Penn State, including participation in prestigious bowl games and a top-ranking this year.
- Key Achievements Under Franklin:
- Rose Bowl appearances
- Fiesta Bowl appearances
- Final Four participation
Saban expressed concern about the lack of appreciation from the university for Franklin’s contributions, emphasizing that such a response to Franklin’s efforts was unjust. “It’s unfair for those people not to show enough appreciation for all the hard work you did,” he added.
The Future for James Franklin
With speculation surrounding his next move, Franklin faces a $49 million buyout, leading to rumors that he might transition into media. However, Franklin indicated his desire to continue coaching. “I can’t wait for that next challenge, and we’re going to win a national championship at the highest level,” he stated, affirming his commitment to the sport.
He also shared insights about his dedication to football, noting, “I don’t know anything else. I’ve been doing this for 30 years. This has been such a big part of my identity.”
As the college football landscape evolves, Franklin’s journey forward will be closely observed by fans and analysts alike. The question remains: will the Nittany Lions regret their decision to let go of a coach with such a substantial legacy?
