Eight Head Coach Candidates to Replace James Franklin at Penn State

Eight Head Coach Candidates to Replace James Franklin at Penn State

Coaching searches are not frequent in Happy Valley, with only two since 1966. The Nittany Lions now look to replace James Franklin.

By Kevin Kinkead, Published: Oct 13th, 2025 · 10:13 AM EDT. Life comes at you fast when you’re a college football coach. One day, you’re ranked in the top three, hosting College Gameday and then leading the Oregon Ducks in overtime. 15 days later, you’re on a three-game losing streak and hitting the unemployment line.

In James Franklin’s case, he’s going to make more than $50 million not to work. But Penn State will continue without Franklin, and without Drew Allar, who was lost for the season with an ankle injury.

In their place will be cornerbacks coach Terry Smith, serving as interim head coach, and redshirt freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer, who will get six tough games to show what he's got.

Author's summary: Penn State seeks new coach.

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Crossing Broad Crossing Broad — 2025-10-13

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