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UCLA Stuns No. 7 Penn State, Intensifying Questions Over James Franklin’s Future

Attention turns to a reported $50 million buyout that complicates any move to dismiss the coach.

Head coach James Franklin of the Penn State Nittany Lions looks on against the UCLA Bruins during the first quarter at Rose Bowl Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Pasadena, California.
10-5-25
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Overview

  • Previously winless and unranked UCLA beat Penn State 42-37 at the Rose Bowl one week after the Nittany Lions’ overtime loss to Oregon, casting serious doubt on their College Football Playoff path.
  • James Franklin’s overall mark is 104–44 with a 4–21 record against Top 10 opponents, a long-running concern now central to the scrutiny.
  • Reporting from The Athletic cites a buyout believed to be about $50 million, while a mutual parting is viewed as feasible because Franklin’s cost to leave is reported at $2 million.
  • Fan speculation over replacements features former NFL coach Jon Gruden, who has not coached since 2021 and owns a 117–112 record with a 2002 Super Bowl win.
  • Winning out is portrayed as the only realistic route to recovery with No. 1 Ohio State in Columbus and No. 8 Indiana still on the schedule.