A Shocking Turn of Events: Penn State's Coaching Search Unveiled
The unexpected departure of James Franklin has left Penn State fans and the football world buzzing with speculation. In a dramatic twist, Penn State decided to part ways with Franklin after a series of disappointing losses, including an upset by Northwestern. This move has sparked an intriguing coaching search, and we're here to break down the candidates and the potential impact on the program.
The Front-Runners: Local Legends with a Winning Touch
Two coaches stand out as the most likely candidates to fill the void left by Franklin. Both are Big Ten coaches with strong connections to the region and a proven track record of success.
First up is Curt Cignetti, the 64-year-old Pittsburgh native who has worked magic at Indiana University. Cignetti brought a winning mindset to Bloomington, assembling a talented staff and transforming the Hoosiers into a powerhouse. His team's dominant performance against Oregon, a feat that eluded Penn State for years, showcases his ability to elevate a program. However, Indiana won't let him go easily, with a hefty buyout of $13 million if he departs before December.
And here's where it gets controversial... The other front-runner is Matt Rhule, the Nebraska head coach and a former Penn State linebacker. Rhule has deep roots in Happy Valley and has achieved remarkable success at both Temple and Baylor. His connection with Penn State's AD, Pat Kraft, is a significant factor. An industry source revealed, "Matt loves Pat, and Pat loves Matt." With a buyout of just $5 million, Rhule could be a strong contender for the job.
The Search Beyond the Obvious: Other Potential Candidates
If Penn State fails to secure either Cignetti or Rhule, the coaching search might take an unexpected turn. One name that has surfaced is Manny Diaz, the former defensive coordinator under Franklin at Penn State. Diaz impressed during his tenure and has since built a solid record at Duke, with the Blue Devils showing promise in the ACC.
Additionally, Clark Lea, the head coach at Vanderbilt, has done exceptional work at his alma mater, leading the Commodores to a bowl game last season. With a strong academic background and a successful record, Lea could be an intriguing option.
Matt Campbell, the head coach at Iowa State, is another well-regarded candidate. Campbell guided Iowa State to its best season in history in 2020, finishing in the top 10 nationally. Despite a recent dip, the program has shown resilience and is back on track this season. However, Campbell's potential NFL aspirations might make him a less likely candidate.
The Impact of the Coaching Search: A New Era for Penn State?
This coaching search is a pivotal moment for Penn State football. The program is seeking a leader who can build on Franklin's legacy and take the team to new heights. With a $45 million buyout, Penn State has the financial means to attract top talent.
And this is the part most people miss... The new coach will have big shoes to fill, but with the right leadership, Penn State can continue its dominance in the Big Ten and potentially challenge for national championships.
So, who do you think will be the next Penn State head coach? Will it be a local legend or a fresh face? Join the discussion and share your thoughts! The future of Penn State football is up for grabs, and we can't wait to see how this story unfolds.
