Penn State’s Football Program Grapples with Coach’s Firing

Penn State’s football team is still processing the recent firing of head coach James Franklin, creating a palpable feeling of “overwhelming guilt” among the players regarding the season’s outcome.

Franklin’s tenure ended over the weekend after the Nittany Lions suffered their third consecutive defeat, losing 22-21 at home against Northwestern, which marked the conclusion of his 12-year era at the school.

Captain Nick Dawkins expressed his disbelief on Tuesday, saying it was difficult to accept Franklin’s dismissal. He also mentioned the burden the team feels concerning the situation.

“For us as players, it’s just an overwhelming sense of guilt,” Dawkins mentioned during a virtual press conference. He pointed out, “We didn’t play well enough. We didn’t do our jobs, and now he’s without a job.”

He added, “Right now, it’s about grit and toughness, yes, but I think it’s also about playing for each other… Perhaps it brings a new sense of ownership and accountability for what we’ve done and what lies ahead.”

The Nittany Lions started the season strong, winning their first three games against Nevada, FIU, and Villanova. However, a heart-wrenching loss to Oregon on national television on September 27 was followed by setbacks against a winless UCLA team and the recent loss to Northwestern.

Initially, Penn State was favored to win against the Wildcats by more than three touchdowns. Franklin acknowledged that he needed to take “full responsibility” following the unexpected loss. The team began the year ranked second in the preseason, after making it to the College Football Playoff semifinals against Notre Dame.

This Saturday, Penn State will play another critical Big Ten game against Iowa State, with Terry Smith stepping in as interim head coach for his debut.