Overview
- ESPN and multiple outlets report Penn State initiated discussions with Matt Campbell after BYU’s Kalani Sitake chose to stay and Louisville’s Jeff Brohm declined interest.
- Sources describe the process as early, and any hire would need formal approval from the Penn State Board of Trustees.
- Campbell, 46, is 72-55 in a decade at Iowa State, a three-time Big 12 Coach of the Year, and the winningest coach in Cyclones history.
- The vacancy has stretched beyond 50 days since James Franklin’s Oct. 12 firing, with at least eight linked candidates securing extensions elsewhere.
- Internal option Terry Smith retains visible donor and fan support, but institutional hesitation persists as recruiting damage mounts, including just two early signees and a tight window before the Jan. 2 transfer portal opening.