Coach Franklin's Future Hangs in the Balance After Disappointing Orange Bowl Loss

Penn State football head coach James Franklin's future is uncertain following the Nittany Lions' disappointing 35-21 loss to Utah in the Rose Bowl. Franklin, who is entering his eighth season at the helm of the program, has led Penn State to one Big Ten championship (2016), one New Year's Six bowl win (2017 Fiesta Bowl), and three bowl losses.

A Tumultuous Season

The 2022 season was a roller coaster for Penn State. The Nittany Lions started the season 5-0, with impressive wins over Purdue and Auburn. However, they stumbled down the stretch, losing five of their last seven games, including a 45-17 blowout loss to Michigan in the regular season finale. The Rose Bowl loss to Utah was the culmination of a disappointing end to the season.

Franklin's Performance

Franklin's record at Penn State is 67-32 overall and 41-23 in the Big Ten. He has led the Nittany Lions to two New Year's Six bowls and one Big Ten championship. However, Penn State has not won a major bowl game since the 2017 Fiesta Bowl, and they have not won a Big Ten title since 2016.

Franklin's critics argue that he has not lived up to expectations at Penn State. They point to the Nittany Lions' recent struggles, as well as Franklin's 0-5 record against rival Ohio State. Franklin's supporters, however, argue that he has done a good job of rebuilding the program after the Jerry Sandusky scandal and that he deserves more time to turn things around.

The Future

Franklin's future at Penn State is uncertain. Athletic director Pat Kraft has said that he will evaluate Franklin's performance after the season. If Kraft decides to fire Franklin, Penn State will be looking for its fourth head coach in the past 10 years.

If Franklin is fired, there are several potential candidates to replace him. Some of the names that have been mentioned include former Penn State quarterback Matt McGloin, current West Virginia head coach Neal Brown, and former Baylor head coach Matt Rhule.

Conclusion

James Franklin's future at Penn State is uncertain following the Nittany Lions' disappointing Orange Bowl loss. Franklin has led Penn State to some success during his tenure, but he has also faced criticism for the team's recent struggles. Athletic director Pat Kraft will evaluate Franklin's performance after the season and make a decision on his future.

The decision on Franklin's future will have a major impact on the Penn State football program. If Franklin is fired, the Nittany Lions will be looking for their fourth head coach in the past 10 years. This could lead to a period of instability for the program.

However, if Franklin is retained, he will have the opportunity to turn things around at Penn State. He will need to improve the team's performance on the field, as well as build a more consistent program. If he can do that, Franklin could lead Penn State to a Big Ten championship and a major bowl win.