Penn State head coach James Franklin has been linked to some of the biggest jobs in college football. Some Nittany Lions fans would love to see him go.
The moment USC and LSU started looking for new head coaches, James Franklin’s name came up as a candidate.
The trouble for Franklin? His Penn State Nittany Lions don’t look particularly great this season. After losing to Iowa, Illinois and Ohio State in consecutive weeks, they struggled with Maryland for 3.5 quarters before putting the Terps away. But they look likely to suffer more losses before the end of the season.
Now, the narrative around Franklin is odd. On the one hand, he’s considered one of the top coaching prospects out there. On the other hand, his own fans appear to want him gone.
Penn State fans want James Franklin to leave for USC or LSU
Literally, Penn State fans on Twitter can’t wait to see him leave. They’re even willing to pack his backs for him.
Jahan Dotson - 21 Maryland - 14… Also… James Franklin… I wouldn’t mind if you go to LSU or USC. You’re coaching style matches them. Mediocre. Limited expectations. Get disappointed. This offense is getting bailed out by one amazing player as well. It amazes me
— 𝓜𝓲𝓷𝓴𝓪𝓱 𝓜𝓪𝓰𝓲𝓬 (IFB) (1-0) (@BraydenByham) November 6, 2021
Dear USC and LSU, hire James Franklin....please.
— chris masse (@docmasse) November 6, 2021
Alternatively, perhaps Franklin really wants to stay at Penn State?
James Franklin loves Penn State so much that he's willing to completely torpedo a potential playoff season in order to make himself less viable candidate. You have to admire the commitment!
— Steve Silver (@SteveTSRA) November 6, 2021
Franklin is definitely starting to split opinions. Whether or not that gives USC or LSU pause about targeting Franklin is the big question.
One thing looks clear, he doesn’t look like the sure-thing he might have seemed a couple of years ago.
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