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Penn State Eyes Top Coaches After Franklin's Firing

10/13/2025

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Summary

Coaches on Move

After James Franklin (Penn State head coach) was fired, Penn State intensified its search for a new head coach.
Curt Cignetti (Indiana's head coach) has transformed Indiana into a College Football Playoff contender and posted a 17-2 record, including a victory over Oregon.
Matt Campbell (Iowa State's head coach) has led the Cyclones to their best seasons despite injuries and may pursue NFL opportunities.

Summary

Franklin Fired After Losses

The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) fired head football coach James Franklin after the 2025 season began with three straight losses, including Northwestern.
Franklin posted a 104-45 record and led Penn State to a Big Ten championship.
Franklin will receive a $45 million buyout.
Associate head coach Terry Smith will serve as interim head coach as Penn State searches for a leader, with Matt Rhule and Brian Kelly among possibilities.

History

Historical Context

James Franklin was fired as head coach of Penn State in 2025 after a disappointing season, despite a strong overall record of 104-45 and a Big Ten championship. This decision reflects a broader trend in college football, where programs like Indiana, led by Curt Cignetti, have thrived with a 17-2 record, highlighting the increasing pressure on coaches to achieve immediate success.

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Coaches on Move

After James Franklin (Penn State head coach) was fired, Penn State intensified its search for a new head coach.
Curt Cignetti (Indiana's head coach) has transformed Indiana into a College Football Playoff contender and posted a 17-2 record, including a victory over Oregon.
Matt Campbell (Iowa State's head coach) has led the Cyclones to their best seasons despite injuries and may pursue NFL opportunities.

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