Photo: Isaiah Vazquez / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
Penn State's athletic director, Pat Kraft, addressed the media on Tuesday (October 14) to discuss the recent dismissal of head football coach James Franklin. Kraft emphasized that the decision was not based on a recent three-game losing streak but rather on the overall trajectory of the program. He stated, "This is not a three-game thing," and expressed his goal of winning a national championship for Penn State.
Franklin was let go after the Nittany Lions suffered a surprising defeat to Northwestern, dropping their record to 3-3. Kraft acknowledged the team's struggles against top-tier opponents since Franklin took over in 2014. Despite Franklin's efforts, the team had an abysmal record against elite schools.
Kraft's decision comes just nine months after Penn State nearly reached the national championship game in the College Football Playoff. However, the team's recent performance, including losses to Oregon and UCLA, prompted the change. Kraft noted that the athletic department would cover Franklin's buyout, estimated at over $49 million.
Interim head coach Terry Smith, a former player under Joe Paterno, will lead the team for the remainder of the season. Smith, who has been with Penn State since 2014, expressed his gratitude to Franklin and his commitment to guiding the team through this challenging period. Smith's immediate task includes preparing the Nittany Lions for upcoming games against top-ranked opponents like Ohio State and Indiana.
The search for a new head coach will focus on finding someone who can maximize resources, effectively use the transfer portal, and embody the values of integrity and toughness that Penn State stands for. Kraft's ultimate goal remains clear: to bring a national championship back to Happy Valley.