In a stunning turn of events, James Franklin has finally broken his silence on his abrupt firing from Penn State, and his words are nothing short of defiant. But here’s where it gets controversial: after being let go just three games into a spiraling season, Franklin insists his dream of winning a national championship is far from over—it’ll just have to happen somewhere else. During his emotional appearance on College GameDay in Athens, Ga., Franklin opened up about the whirlwind of his dismissal, revealing the shocking moment Penn State’s athletic director walked into a team meeting to deliver the news. 'We’re gonna make a change, sorry,' the director said, leaving Franklin with just 15 minutes to inform his family before the news hit the internet. And this is the part most people miss: despite the abruptness, Franklin chose to take the high road, refusing to label the decision as unfair—even as industry giants like Nick Saban called it 'unfair as hell.'
Franklin’s tenure at Penn State was no small feat. In his 12th season, with $49 million left on his contract, he had led the Nittany Lions to the brink of a national championship just last year, falling short in a heart-wrenching semifinal loss to Notre Dame. This season started with promise, too, with the team ranked No. 2 in the nation. But after three consecutive losses—including a stunning defeat to a previously winless UCLA—Franklin’s time was cut short. 'I thought we were gonna win a national championship there,' he said. 'We were close. That goal hasn’t changed. We’re just gonna go win it somewhere else now.'
Here’s the bold question: Was Penn State’s decision justified, or did they let go of a coach who had brought them to the cusp of greatness? Franklin himself admits he’s still processing the surreal turn of events. 'To think six games ago we were fighting for a chance to be in the national championship—a two-minute drive away,' he reflected. 'It feels surreal.'
Meanwhile, Penn State has moved on, promoting associate head coach Terry Smith to lead the team for the remainder of the season. The Nittany Lions face Iowa this Saturday, now without Franklin and star quarterback Drew Allar, who underwent season-ending ankle surgery. As for Franklin, he’s already looking ahead. 'I can’t wait for that next challenge,' he declared. 'We’re gonna go win a national championship at the highest level.'
But here’s the real debate: Is Franklin’s confidence warranted, or is he overlooking the challenges that led to his downfall at Penn State? Let’s discuss—do you think Franklin will achieve his championship dream elsewhere, or is his best shot behind him? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
