The air in Happy Valley is thick with speculation, as whispers about James Franklin’s future at Penn State grow louder. After a challenging 3-3 start to the 2025 season, marked by significant fan discontent and critical losses, the Nittany Lions program appears to be at a crossroads. While a direct firing carries a staggering $50 million-plus buyout, a “mutual parting of ways” could pave the path for a new era. Should a change occur, the search for the next Penn State coaching candidates will ignite a fierce competition for one of college football’s most coveted positions. This detailed hot board dissects the top contenders and dark horses who could lead the Nittany Lions forward.
The Looming Transition: Why Franklin’s Tenure is Under Scrutiny
James Franklin’s impressive overall record of 104-44 at Penn State masks a critical Achilles’ heel: a 4-21 record against AP Top 10 opponents. This inability to consistently win against elite competition has fueled fan frustration, exacerbated by recent disappointing losses. Reports indicate a “new level of toxicity” after a 22-21 loss to Northwestern, with boos heard at Beaver Stadium. A surprising 42-37 defeat to the previously winless UCLA Bruins in the Rose Bowl further intensified calls for change.
The financial reality of Franklin’s contract, extending through 2031 with a buyout estimated between $49 million and $56 million, makes an outright firing highly improbable. However, analysts suggest a mutual separation could be a viable path. Franklin’s personal cost to leave is a comparatively low $2 million, meaning he could pursue other high-level coaching opportunities while Penn State embarks on a fresh start without the full buyout burden. This potential shift sets the stage for a critical decision point for the Nittany Lions coach search.
Top Contenders for the Penn State Helm
As the college football coaching carousel picks up speed, several prominent names emerge as potential Penn State coaching candidates. These individuals bring a mix of proven success, innovative offensive schemes, and unique ties to the program.
Curt Cignetti: The “Glamorous Pick” with Immediate Impact
Curt Cignetti, currently head coach at Indiana, stands out as arguably the hottest coach in college football. His tenure at Indiana has been nothing short of transformative, leading the Hoosiers to a College Football Playoff appearance in his inaugural 2024 season and an undefeated 6-0 record, No. 3 national ranking in 2025. Cignetti’s staff excels at transfer portal evaluation and fully embraces the modern landscape of NIL. He is often called a “home run hire” for his ability to achieve consistent success.
Pros: Proven winner at every stop, immediate program elevation, success in Big Ten (hypothetically), strong NIL and transfer portal strategy, offensive acumen.
Cons: Age (64) is a factor for a long-term rebuild, limited record against elite competition (struggled against Ohio State and Notre Dame), questions about willingness to leave his “hero” status at Indiana.
Manny Diaz: A Familiar Face with Reinvented Success
Manny Diaz is a name well-known in Happy Valley, having served as Penn State’s defensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023. During his time, he was lauded as one of the best play-callers, and his defense was not considered the program’s primary issue. After a mixed tenure as head coach at Miami (21-15), Diaz has successfully “reinvented himself” at Duke, leading them to a respectable 13-6 record, including nine wins last year.
Pros: Deep familiarity with Penn State’s program and recruiting landscape, demonstrated success in rebuilding Duke, strong defensive mind.
Cons: “Retread” label from Miami, concerns if Duke success can translate to Penn State’s higher expectations, primarily a “defensive guy” while PSU might need an offensive spark.
Matt Rhule: The Alum and “Program Reviver”
Matt Rhule, a Penn State alumnus and former player, holds strong sentimental ties to the program and a prior working relationship with Athletic Director Pat Kraft. He has earned a reputation as a “program reviver,” having successfully rebuilt Temple and Baylor. Currently in his third year at Nebraska, he’s leading them to their first bowl game since 2016 and a 5-1 start to the 2025 season.
Pros: Deep Penn State connections and alumni support, proven ability to rebuild programs, strong relationship with AD.
Cons: Overall college record (64-57) is solid but not elite, questions about his ability to elevate a program to national championship contention rather than just saving it. He’s still seeking a “breakthrough set of wins.”
Rising Stars and Strategic “Swings”
Beyond the established names, the search for the next Nittany Lions head coach could involve bold moves for up-and-coming offensive minds or those with strong regional ties.
Alex Golesh: The Offensive Innovator
Alex Golesh, currently leading South Florida with a 19-13 record, is considered an “up-and-coming choice.” An Ohio State alumnus with Big Ten experience at Illinois, Golesh is known for bringing an “offensive makeover” – a clear need for Penn State. His successful offensive coordinator stints at UCF and Tennessee precede his current head coaching role.
Pros: Strong offensive scheme, Big Ten experience, youth and energy.
Cons: Relative inexperience as a head coach at a major Power Four program.
Kenny Dillingham & Will Stein: High-Risk, High-Reward Offensive Gurus
Both Kenny Dillingham (Arizona State HC) and Will Stein (Oregon OC) represent a bold “swing” for Penn State. Dillingham, 35, has already achieved remarkable success at Arizona State, guiding them to a Big 12 title and a CFP appearance in his second year. Stein, 36, has had a rapid ascent, with Oregon’s offense thriving under his direction.
Pros (for both): Young, bright offensive minds, proven success coordinating explosive offenses.
Cons (for both): Limited head coaching experience at the Power Four level (Stein would be a first-time HC), inherent uncertainty of hiring a coordinator, even a successful one.
Dark Horses and Internal Options
The coaching search could also explore candidates who bring unique perspectives or internal continuity.
Matt Campbell: The “King of Doing More with Less”
Matt Campbell has consistently overachieved at Iowa State for 10 seasons, earning multiple Big 12 Coach of the Year awards and leading an 11-win squad last year. His 69-53 record at Iowa State is impressive given their historical context.
Pros: Consistent winner with limited resources, capable of building strong programs.
Cons: Questions if “solid” is enough for Penn State’s ambition; his patented 3-3-5 defensive scheme would require a complete overhaul of Penn State’s long-standing 4-down front and recruiting strategy, making him a potentially poor fit defensively.
Dan Mullen: The “Second Chance” Success Story
Dan Mullen, currently leading UNLV to an impressive 6-0 start, is demonstrating renewed success after his tenure at Florida (34-15). He also had success at Mississippi State. His offensive prowess and experience in competitive conferences (SEC) make him an interesting “third time’s the charm” candidate.
Pros: Proven winner at multiple SEC programs, strong offensive reputation, currently enjoying a resurgence.
Cons: Previous firing at Florida, adapting to the Big Ten’s unique challenges.
Jim Knowles: The Continuity Option
Jim Knowles, Penn State’s current defensive coordinator, represents stability and familiarity. A veteran coach, he previously won a national title at Ohio State. While his defense had a tough outing against Nico Iamaleava, the defense isn’t considered Penn State’s main issue.
Pros: Deep familiarity with the current roster and program, respected defensive mind.
Cons: Limited head coaching experience (26-34 at Cornell), association with the Franklin era’s shortcomings, particularly in crucial games.
The Strategic Imperatives for Penn State
The next head coach for Penn State must address several critical strategic imperatives. The program needs a coach who can not only win consistently but also elevate the Nittany Lions to perennial College Football Playoff contenders. This involves:
Offensive Rejuvenation: Many candidates bring offensive expertise, which is a significant need.
Mastering Modern CFB: Embracing NIL, excelling in the transfer portal, and understanding revenue sharing are non-negotiable.
Recruiting Prowess: Securing top talent, particularly in key recruiting areas, remains paramount.
Big Game Performance: A coach who can consistently beat Top 10 opponents and challenge rivals like Ohio State and Michigan is essential.
The decision will hinge on the balance between proven track record, fit with the program’s culture, and the potential for a new leader to truly unlock the Nittany Lions’ championship aspirations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main reasons for questioning James Franklin’s future at Penn State?
James Franklin’s future is primarily questioned due to his consistent underperformance against top-10 opponents, holding a 4-21 record. Despite an impressive overall record, recent losses in the 2025 season, including a defeat to previously winless UCLA and significant fan discontent at Beaver Stadium, have intensified scrutiny. The program is perceived as unable to “elevate” to national championship contention, despite strong recruiting.
What key qualities should Penn State prioritize in its next head coach?
Penn State should prioritize a coach with a proven ability to win consistently against elite competition and elevate a program to College Football Playoff contention. Strong offensive innovation is a critical need, as is a deep understanding and successful track record with NIL and the transfer portal. Experience navigating the competitive Big Ten landscape and a commitment to sustained top-tier recruiting are also essential.
Which coaching candidates have strong Big Ten or Penn State ties?
Several top Penn State coaching candidates possess significant ties to the Big Ten or the Nittany Lions program. Matt Rhule is a Penn State alumnus and former player with a strong relationship with AD Pat Kraft. Manny Diaz served as Penn State’s defensive coordinator (2022-23). Alex Golesh, an Ohio State alumnus, has prior Big Ten coaching experience at Illinois, and Jim Knowles is the current Penn State defensive coordinator.
The Road Ahead for the Nittany Lions
The future of Penn State football hangs in the balance, with monumental decisions potentially on the horizon. While the financial implications of a coaching change are substantial, the desire to compete at the absolute highest level is undeniable. As the 2025 season progresses, the performance of the Nittany Lions and the trajectory of potential Penn State coaching candidates will be meticulously observed. The next leader chosen for this storied program will face the immense task of rekindling the passion of the fan base and forging a new path toward sustained excellence in college football.