Overview
- Multiple reports say Penn State has refocused its search on Matt Campbell, with talks held Thursday and a meeting expected as both sides show mutual interest.
- Campbell is 72-55 at Iowa State with three Big 12 Coach of the Year honors, and he is under contract through 2032 at about $5 million annually with a reported buyout near $2 million.
- The pivot comes after Penn State’s pursuit of several targets fell short, including BYU’s Kalani Sitake, who re-signed, and others who chose to stay put.
- Interim coach Terry Smith remains in consideration and has donor backing, and he has drawn outside interest from UConn and Memphis, according to multiple reports.
- Recruiting has already taken a hit with only two early signees, increasing urgency to stabilize the program before the transfer portal window opens on Jan. 2.