On October 12, 2025, Penn State University officially announced the dismissal of James Franklin as head football coach, ending a 12-year run in Happy Valley. CBS Sports+3On3+3Onward State+3
Here’s a deep dive into what led to this seismic move, what it means for Penn State, and what lies ahead for both the program and Franklin.
From High Expectations to Tumultuous 2025
When Franklin was hired in January 2014, the expectations were lofty. Over the next decade, he posted a 104-45 record at Penn State, becoming one of the winningest coaches in program history. Wikipedia+3On3+3Onward State+3 He elevated the program, producing NFL athletes, All-Americans, and winning multiple 10-win seasons. Onward State+2Wikipedia+2
Yet, during his tenure, Penn State’s performance in “big games” remained a recurring criticism. Analysts often pointed to an inability to close out against top-tier opponents. Onward State+4On3+4SI+4
The 2025 Collapse
The 2025 season began with promise—Penn State entered the year ranked very highly—but things unraveled quickly:
The Nittany Lions dropped a heartbreaking double-overtime loss to Oregon. CBS Sports+7CBS Sports+7On3+7
Then came a stunning upset to previously winless UCLA, a defeat that exposed major defensive flaws. Onward State+6CBS Sports+6On3+6
The final straw: a tight 22-21 loss to Northwestern, where starting quarterback Drew Allar suffered a season-ending leg injury. CBS Sports+6Reuters+6New York Post+6
That dropped Penn State to a 3–3 overall record, including 0–3 in Big Ten play, and marked three straight losses—something fans hadn’t witnessed since 2021. CBS Sports+5CBS Sports+5On3+5
As frustration built among fans and stakeholders, “Fire Franklin” chants grew louder. On3+2CBS Sports+2
The Decision & Fallout
Buyout Shockwaves
One of the largest obstacles to removing Franklin was the size of his buyout. Under his contract through 2031, Penn State was reportedly obligated to pay between $48 million and $56 million for early termination. SI+4CBS Sports+4On3+4 Despite that, the administration decided the cost was necessary to shift direction. On3+1
Interim Coach: Terry Smith
With Franklin gone, associate head coach and cornerbacks coach Terry Smith was named interim head coach for the remainder of the season. On3+2CBS Sports+2
Legacy and Reflection
Franklin leaves behind a mixed legacy:
✅ He reinvigorated Penn State’s program, stabilized its fortunes, and created a pipeline of NFL talent. Onward State+1
❌ But he couldn’t consistently reach the highest peaks, particularly falling short in marquee matchups when expectations were highest. CBS Sports+2SI+2
📈 He finishes with more wins at Penn State than nearly any coach in program history, but the timing of the departure underscores how tenuous success can be in college football. Onward State+1
What’s Next for Penn State & James Franklin
Penn State’s Path Forward
Penn State now faces an urgent quest for stability:
Identify a long-term head coach who can compete in the Big Ten and national scene.
Navigate the financial burden of Franklin’s buyout while recruiting and retaining talent.
Restore confidence among fans, donors, and athletes amid this sudden pivot.
Franklin’s Future
Though dismissed, Franklin’s coaching credentials are far from diminished. He may pursue another opportunity elsewhere. Given the large payout, he’ll have time to evaluate and choose a fitting next destination. Whether he returns to a Power 5 program, takes a coordinator role, or waits for a suitable opening, he remains a figure of serious interest.
Final Thoughts
The firing of James Franklin marks the close of one of Penn State’s longest coaching tenures—a chapter of consistency, highs, and unfulfilled promise. The decision reflects both the immense pressure in major college football and how quickly momentum can shift. As Happy Valley turns the page, the success of this move will be measured by what comes next: leadership, culture, and, most importantly, wins.