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48m ago

Penn State Fires James Franklin After Third Straight Loss

Athletic director Pat Kraft names associate head coach Terry Smith interim head coach.

Penn State Head Coach James Franklin looks on during the fourth quarter against the Northwestern Wildcats at Beaver Stadium on October 11, 2025, in State College, Pennsylvania.
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Overview

  • The university launched a national search after a preseason No. 2 start unraveled to 3-3 with consecutive losses to Oregon, UCLA and Northwestern.
  • Published estimates for Franklin’s buyout vary from more than $48 million to roughly $56 million, reflecting reported changes from a 2024 contract amendment.
  • Quarterback Drew Allar sustained a season-ending leg injury against Northwestern, leaving a backup to face Iowa next before dates with No. 1 Ohio State and No. 3 Indiana.
  • Franklin exits 104-45 with a 2016 Big Ten title and last season’s College Football Playoff semifinal, though his teams struggled against top-10 opponents.
  • The financial hit comes as Penn State proceeds with a reported $700 million Beaver Stadium renovation, intensifying budget considerations during the transition.