

Best of The Herd
4 snips Jul 23, 2025
James Franklin, head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, shares insights into the pressures of being a National Championship contender while discussing the expectations surrounding quarterback Drew Allar. He reflects on evolving recruitment strategies and the impact of NIL deals in college football. Franklin also touches on adapting coaching methods in a competitive landscape and how team dynamics influence success. The conversation intertwines Franklin's experiences with the broader themes of sports strategy and legacy.
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Small-Market Success in Sports
- Small and medium market teams consistently compete at the highest levels in major sports.
- Big-market teams face pressure but don't always dominate due to management and organizational factors.
Browns' Ownership Influences
- Jimmy Haslam's close relationships with the Manning family and Nick Saban influence Browns' management.
- This "circle of trust" shapes draft decisions and team strategies, reflecting reality beyond conspiracy.
NFL Losing Seasons Manage Themselves
- NFL teams lacking quarterbacks and roster talent often self-regulate losing without active tanking.
- Losing locker rooms lose morale, leading to resting players and declining performance.