With the start of the new college football season getting closer, college football analyst Joel Klatt has spotlighted some coaches from around the country, including USC head coach Lincoln Riley and Penn State head coach James Franklin, who might be on the hot seat.
With immense pressure mounting, they are expected to give their all. Will they rise to the challenge, or will the heat prove too much?
Lincoln Riley, James Franklin Facing the Heat in 2025, According to Joel Klatt
In the June 9 episode of “The Joel Klatt Show,” analyst Joel Klatt took a deep dive into college football coaching. He ranked 10 head coaches based on the heat they’re facing heading into the 2025 season. Klatt pinpointed matchups that could push them to the brink of losing their jobs.
Klatt categorized them into levels of urgency: “Just Happy You’re Here,” “We Like You, But…,” “Trying to Be Patient,” “Is This Going to Work?” and “It’s Time.”
So, where did Riley and Franklin land on this scale?
Riley falls into the “Is This Going to Work?” category, an intriguing spot given his track record. As Klatt pointed out, Riley has proven he can deliver, especially in his debut season when USC was on the cusp of a CFP appearance.
His last two seasons were disappointing, though. But there was a silver lining in 2024, as the Trojans finished strong. They won three of their last four games.
So, where exactly will the pressure build for Riley? Surprisingly, not in the marquee matchups but in a trap game on the road against the Illinois Fighting Illini on September 27.
Why is this game so critical? Look at USC’s brutal stretch after that matchup. They play the Michigan Wolverines on October 11, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on October 18, and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on November 1.
If they lose against Illinois, then confidence in their ability to take down those powerhouse programs will plummet. It’s not just about wins; it’s about proving USC belongs among college football’s elite. Riley can’t afford a misstep.
2025 Big Ten Power Rankings: Ohio State Football, Oregon Football Do Battle Once More
Meanwhile, Penn State HC James Franklin is in the “It’s Time” category, meaning the pressure is cranked up. Klatt pointed out a glaring issue: Penn State did not secure wins against the Ohio State Buckeyes, Michigan State Spartans, and Oregon Ducks last season. However, Franklin’s squad doesn’t lose against weaker opponents.
Where is the real test? It’ll be on Saturday, September 27, when Penn State hosts Oregon in a highly anticipated “White Out” game. The Ducks will field new quarterback Dante Moore, which could work in Penn State’s favor if Oregon isn’t fully settled into its offensive rhythm. Still, this isn’t a guaranteed win. The game is expected to be a battle.
Penn State has another advantage: They’re bringing back a strong core of players. If they falter, then there’ll be serious questions about Franklin’s ability to win high-stakes matchups.
With Ohio State looming on November 1, followed by a potential Big Ten Championship appearance, this Oregon game could set the tone for the entire season. Franklin has to deliver.
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