LSU football: 3 big names to target to replace Ed Orgeron

James Franklin could leave Penn State for LSU, USC or other marquee jobs

While there is a strong possibility James Franklin could stay with the Penn State Nittany Lions, there is a decent chance he leaves Happy Valley for another high-profile job. Not only will he be a top candidate to replace Clay Helton at USC, but he would be the same if Woodward were to fire Orgeron from his LSU post. This is all about where Franklin can think he can win a national title.

Penn State may be the No. 4 team in the country in Week 6, but the Nittany Lions have to play No. 3 Iowa at Kinnick. The winner of that game has to feel fantastic about its chances of getting to Indianapolis. Iowa would be a virtual lock to win the Big Ten West at that point, but Penn State still has to play Michigan, Michigan State and Ohio State in Big Ten East play. That is so beyond brutal.

And it is for that reason why Franklin would leave his home state’s team: Has he hit the zenith of what he can do at Penn State during the College Football Playoff era? If they can only go 10-2 under him, he may need to look at USC or LSU. His previous post at Vanderbilt lets everyone know he can win big at a traditional doormat with only marginal SEC talent. Franklin will have options.

One way or another, Franklin will be getting a raise, either from his new job or from Penn State.

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