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Penn State's Interim Coach Faces Iowa After Franklin Firing

10/19/2025

23 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On October 18, 2025, Penn State faces Iowa after firing James Franklin, the former Penn State head coach.
Terry Smith leads as interim head coach as Penn State has lost three straight, including a narrow defeat to Northwestern.
Drew Allar is out for the season, and backup Ethan Grunkemeyer will start.
Iowa is favored by three points and shut out Wisconsin, visiting Kinnick Stadium.

History

Historical Context

The Penn State child sex abuse scandal erupted in 2011 when former assistant coach Jerry Sandusky was indicted on 52 counts of molestation, leading to his conviction in June 2012. The NCAA imposed severe sanctions, including a $60 million fine and a four-year postseason ban. Today, after firing James Franklin, Penn State aims to restore its integrity under interim coach Terry Smith amid ongoing challenges in the Big Ten Conference.

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Story summary

On October 18, 2025, Penn State faces Iowa after firing James Franklin, the former Penn State head coach.
Terry Smith leads as interim head coach as Penn State has lost three straight, including a narrow defeat to Northwestern.
Drew Allar is out for the season, and backup Ethan Grunkemeyer will start.
Iowa is favored by three points and shut out Wisconsin, visiting Kinnick Stadium.

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