For the first time since being fired from Penn State, head coach James Franklin addressed the circumstances surrounding his firing during his appearance on College GameDay show in Athens.
According to Penn State reporter Daniel Gallen, Franklin said he received the news about his firing at 1:30 pm on Sunday before a scheduled team meeting.
Athletic director Pat Kraft told Franklin:
“We’re gonna make a change. I’m sorry.”
James Franklin said he was informed by athletic director Pat Kraft at 1:30 p.m. Sunday that he was fired: “We’re gonna make a change. I’m sorry.”
— Daniel Gallen (@danieljtgallen) October 18, 2025
The news was met with surprise by Franklin, whose 12 year tenure with the Nittany Lions ended last week. In his tenure, he led the team to a 104-45 record, including a Big Ten title and a College Football Playoff appearance.
The Nittany Lions started the season 3-0 and were preseason AP No. 2 ranked team. But after three straight losses, including the 22-21 loss to Northwestern, the program made the decision to fire Franklin and appoint Terry Smith as the interim head coach.
What Penn State AD Said Regarding James Franklin’s Firing?
After Penn State’s third consecutive loss, Athletic Director Pat Kraft made the decision to part ways with head coach James Franklin. In his statement, he thanked Franklin for his dedication to the program.
“I am grateful for all that Coach Franklin has done for Penn State football and the University over the past 11-plus years,” Kraft said. “We thank him for his dedication, and we extend our best wishes to him and his family as they move forward into their next chapter.”
Kraft mentioned that the decision was not based on the recent string of poor performances. It had a broader mindset behind it.
“My job is to evaluate everything and make hard decisions that are in the best interest of our athletes, our program, and our department,” he added. “Football is our backbone. We’ve invested at the highest level, and with that comes high expectations. Ultimately, I believe a new leader can help us win a national championship, and now is the right time for this change.”
It remains to be seen if Franklin spills the beans regarding his firing on Saturday.
Read More News:
2x SB Champ Spells Doom For Mario Cristobal’s Miami As Carson Beck Falls Flat in Louisville Loss
College Football Bye Week 8: Full List Of Teams Missing In Action This Week ft. NC State
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
