Penn State University terminated the contract of football head coach James Franklin on Sunday, November 17, 2024, concluding a 16-year tenure marked by initial success that ultimately succumbed to a recent, precipitous decline. The decision follows a season where the Nittany lions, initially ranked among the nation’s elite, experienced a stunning midseason collapse, losing four consecutive games and diminishing postseason aspirations.
Franklin’s dismissal represents a notable shift for the Penn State football program, a cornerstone of the university’s identity and a major driver of revenue and regional pride. The move impacts players, recruits, alumni, and the broader State College community. The university now embarks on a search for a new leader to restore the program’s competitive edge in the Big Ten Conference and nationally. Franklin’s departure also raises questions about the future direction of Penn state’s athletic department and its commitment to football excellence.
The unraveling began after a 5-0 start and a No. 10 ranking in the Associated Press poll. Subsequent losses to Ohio State, Michigan, Illinois, and Rutgers exposed vulnerabilities and prompted widespread criticism of Franklin’s coaching strategies and game management. Penn State finished the regular season with a 7-5 record.
News of the firing prompted immediate reaction from across the college football landscape. Micah parsons, a Penn State alumnus and star linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys, publicly expressed his frustration with the decision. Penn State athletic director Patrick Kraft announced the change in leadership via a statement released by gopsusports.com.
Franklin amassed a 114-56 overall record at Penn State, including a Big Ten Championship in 2016. However, his inability to consistently compete for national championships and recent struggles against rivals ultimately led to his removal. The university will pay Franklin a $20 million buyout, according to reports. The search for his replacement is underway, with several potential candidates already being discussed.
