Cover 3 College Football Penn State fires James Franklin: What's next for the Nittany Lions? | Emergency Podcast
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Oct 12, 2025 James Franklin's firing sent shockwaves through college football. The hosts analyze the decision's timing and its implications for Penn State's future. Discussions include potential head coach candidates, with names like Matt Rule and Matt Campbell on the table. They also reflect on Franklin's tenure and legacy. The conversation touches on how one game might have altered his fate and what the interim coach's role will be. Speculation about the impact on the broader coaching market rounds out this urgent discussion.
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Abrupt Firing To Stop The Slide
- Penn State fired James Franklin outright after three straight losses and a perceived program decline.
- Hosts argue the move aimed to halt a slide and prevent deeper cultural and on-field rot.
Firing Risks Versus Cultural Decline
- Tom Fornelli says the environment risked becoming toxic with losing and fan backlash.
- He warns firing is risky but sometimes needed when a program's momentum reverses quickly.
Franklin's Rebuild And Track Record
- Chip and Tom note Franklin rebuilt Penn State into a national power with Big Ten titles and playoff runs.
- They underline his 104–45 record and consistent top-10 finishes as evidence of past success.