Who will replace James Franklin following his Sunday firing?
Curt Cignetti, Indiana
Record: 17–2 at Indiana; 36–6 in FBS overall
Credentials: Led Indiana to the College Football Playoff in 2024 and has them undefeated in 2025
Pros: Proven winner, Pennsylvania native, offensive-minded
Cons: May prefer to stay at Indiana where he’s already a legend
Why He’s a Fit: Cignetti has turned Indiana into a Big Ten powerhouse, leading them to the College Football Playoff in 2024. He’s a Pennsylvania native and has deep recruiting ties in the region.
Matt Rhule, Nebraska
Record: 64–57 overall; 5–1 in 2025
Credentials: Penn State alum, former Temple and Baylor head coach, NFL experience
Pros: Deep ties to Penn State, strong rebuild resume
Cons: Mixed record against top-ranked teams
Why He’s a Fit: Rhule played at Penn State and has long been considered a potential successor to Franklin. He’s known for rebuilding programs at Temple and Baylor.
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Manny Diaz, Duke
Record: 13–6 at Duke; 21–15 at Miami
Credentials: Former Penn State defensive coordinator (2022–2023)
Pros: Familiar with PSU culture, strong defensive background
Cons: Previous head coaching stint at Miami was underwhelming
Why He’s a Fit: Diaz was Penn State’s defensive coordinator before taking over at Duke. His defenses were among the best in the nation during his time in Happy Valley.
Alex Golesh, South Florida
Record: 19–13 at USF
Credentials: Former Tennessee OC, Big Ten experience at Illinois
Pros: Young, offensive innovator, rising star
Cons: Limited head coaching experience
Why He’s a Fit: Golesh took over a USF team that had won just four games in two years and quickly made them competitive. His ability to rebuild and rebrand a program speaks to his strategic vision, something Penn State may need after a turbulent season.
Matt Campbell, Iowa State
Record: 69–53 at Iowa State; 11–3 in 2024
Credentials: Three-time Big 12 Coach of the Year
Pros: Consistent success, Midwest ties
Cons: Has turned down major offers before
Why He’s a Fit: Campbell has consistently kept Iowa State competitive in the Big 12 despite limited resources. He’s respected for his leadership and culture-building.
Kenny Dillingham, Arizona State
Record: Big 12 title and CFP appearance in 2024
Credentials: Offensive mastermind, young and ambitious
Pros: Proven success, high ceiling
Cons: May be early in his head coaching career
Why He’s a Fit: Dillingham is known as a “connector”—someone who builds strong relationships with players, staff, and fans. His emotional investment in the team and his willingness to be vulnerable and transparent have made him a beloved figure at Arizona State. That kind of charisma could resonate deeply in a passionate football community like Happy Valley.