The abrupt firing of James Franklin by Penn State has sent shockwaves through the football world, leaving fans and experts alike wondering: Who will take the reins of this prestigious program? But as the dust settles, two names emerge as clear front-runners, each with their own compelling narrative.
First, Curt Cignetti, the mastermind behind Indiana's stunning rise. Just as Penn State stumbled against Northwestern, Cignetti's Hoosiers delivered a seismic shock by defeating Oregon. This 64-year-old Pittsburgh native has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround at IU, bringing in top talent from James Madison, assembling a stellar staff, and fostering a winning mentality. His bold vision and even bolder results, including a College Football Playoff appearance in his inaugural season and a 17-2 record in his second, make him a tantalizing prospect for Penn State. And the timing couldn't be more perfect, as his contract's buyout drops significantly after December 1st.
Then there's Matt Rhule, a familiar face to AD Pat Kraft. Their history together at Temple, where Rhule led the Owls to consecutive 10-win seasons, including a memorable victory over Penn State, speaks for itself. But it's his deep-rooted connection to the Nittany Lions as a former linebacker and his remarkable work at Baylor that truly make him a compelling candidate. With strong ties to Happy Valley and a proven track record, Rhule could be the perfect fit. However, his current contract with Nebraska, which includes a $5 million buyout, might be a hurdle.
Beyond these two favorites, the coaching search becomes more intriguing. Manny Diaz, who served as Franklin's defensive coordinator at Penn State, is rumored to be on Kraft's radar. His impressive stint at Miami and current success at Duke, where he's led the Blue Devils to an 8-3 ACC record, make him an appealing choice. Meanwhile, Clark Lea of Vanderbilt and Matt Campbell of Iowa State are also in the conversation, each with their own unique strengths and accomplishments.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is Penn State's next coach already on this list, or is there a surprise candidate waiting in the wings? And what about the financial implications of these potential hires? With millions of dollars in buyouts at stake, the decision becomes even more complex. The coaching carousel is spinning, and the future of Penn State football hangs in the balance. Who will be the one to lead the Nittany Lions back to glory? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
