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Penn State Fires Coach James Franklin, Seeks Replacement

10/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Penn State fired James Franklin, its head coach, after a disappointing season and loss to Northwestern.
Franklin said he was shocked by the decision and cited his 12-year tenure.
The school names Matt Rhule and Mike Elko as frontrunners to replace him.
Rhule is a Penn State alumnus and is in his third season at Nebraska.
Elko has led Texas A&M to a strong start this season.

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Story summary

Penn State fired James Franklin, its head coach, after a disappointing season and loss to Northwestern.
Franklin said he was shocked by the decision and cited his 12-year tenure.
The school names Matt Rhule and Mike Elko as frontrunners to replace him.
Rhule is a Penn State alumnus and is in his third season at Nebraska.
Elko has led Texas A&M to a strong start this season.