Penn State football is searching for a home run hire after parting ways with James Franklin amid a disappointing 3-3 campaign. Franklin is owed about $50 million in buyout money, and the university will likely need to invest millions more to secure their next head coach.
According to college football insider Bruce Feldman, two candidates have emerged as potential replacements for Franklin: Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule and Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko. Each coach brings specific qualities that link them to the job.
“Elko is a northeast guy from Jersey, but timing could be tricky with the Aggies’ playoff expectations looming,” Feldman explained. “Rhule is a Penn State alum and close friends with Nittany Lions Athletic Director Pat Kraft.”
Another candidate, Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti, was also considered for the position. However, Cignetti recently signed a contract extension with Indiana, effectively ending those rumors.
Franklin was fired after Penn State suffered three consecutive losses to Oregon, UCLA, and Northwestern this season. The Nittany Lions entered the 2025 campaign with national championship aspirations, making the recent setbacks all the more disappointing.
During his tenure, Franklin led Penn State to the College Football Playoff in 2024, where they reached the semifinal game. He amassed over 100 wins with the program, making him a coach who will be difficult to replace.
### A Tough Job Ahead for Penn State’s Next Coach
Penn State football is a storied program with a rich history. Legendary coach Joe Paterno won numerous games and national championships in 1982 and 1986, setting a high bar for success. Franklin himself secured a Big Ten championship in 2016 but struggled to keep Penn State competitive against top 25 opponents in recent years.
In recent seasons, the program has taken a backseat in the Big Ten to powerhouses like Ohio State and Michigan. The next head coach will be expected to return the Nittany Lions to the College Football Playoff quickly and restore the program’s winning tradition.
Penn State fans are eager for a national championship, which has eluded the program for nearly 40 years. The coming months will be crucial as the university seeks a leader capable of bringing Penn State back to the forefront of college football.
https://clutchpoints.com/ncaa-football/penn-state-football-rumors-2-coaching-candidates-emerge-james-franklin-firing
