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1h ago

Penn State Fires James Franklin After Three-Game Slide

The move triggers a costly buyout, prompting an immediate coaching search under interim Terry Smith.

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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PASADENA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 04: Head coach James Franklin of the Penn State Nittany Lions reacts against the UCLA Bruins during the third quarter at Rose Bowl Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

Overview

  • The university announced Franklin's dismissal Sunday, less than 24 hours after a 22-21 home loss to Northwestern that left Penn State 3-3 overall and 0-3 in the Big Ten.
  • Associate head coach and former Nittany Lions receiver Terry Smith was appointed interim head coach as athletic director Pat Kraft pledged a national search.
  • Buyout figures reported by outlets vary, with a USA TODAY–obtained term sheet citing about $49.7 million and ESPN reporting roughly $56.66 million, ranking among the largest in college football.
  • Quarterback Drew Allar suffered a season-ending leg injury against Northwestern, and Penn State now faces upcoming games against Iowa, Ohio State and Indiana.
  • Franklin departs with a 104-45 record over 11-plus seasons, including a 2016 Big Ten title and a 2024 CFP semifinal, but persistent struggles against top-10 opponents fueled mounting pressure.