In a shocking turn of events that's shaking up college football, Penn State has reportedly parted ways with head coach James Franklin—and now, all eyes are on who could step into this high-stakes role. But here's where it gets controversial: when Matt Rhule's phone lights up with that inevitable call from State College, Pennsylvania, he should treat it like a tempting offer he can't afford to accept. Stick around to see why staying put might just be the smarter, more fulfilling choice for this Nebraska legend.
Picture this: Matt Rhule, the current head coach at Nebraska, is about to get a call that feels almost predestined. It won't be some random prank or a shady scam—it's expected to come from his alma mater, Pennsylvania State University, where he starred as a linebacker from 1994 to 1997. Rhule, a Pennsylvania native who also coached at Temple in the same state, has deep roots in the Northeast. So, when Penn State dials him up, it won't just be a casual chat; it'll be a serious pitch, likely loaded with enticing perks and promises.
But here's the part most people miss: Rhule should courteously listen, appreciate the gesture, and then firmly say no. Penn State isn't just testing the waters; they're gearing up to persuade him to leave Lincoln and take the reins in State College. And with good reason—Franklin's tenure ended amid a string of disappointments that have left fans and the program in turmoil.
Franklin, who coached at Penn State since 2014, boasts a solid overall record of 104 wins and 45 losses, equating to a .698 winning percentage. That's impressive on paper, right? But for beginners diving into college football, understand that these stats matter deeply in a sport where championships and rivalries define legacies. Yet, Franklin has struggled in big moments, with Penn State going just 4-21 against top-10 AP-ranked teams during his time. This season was supposed to be their year—they had realistic shots at a national championship, a title that crowns the best college football team in the country each year, something Franklin openly discussed pre-season.
Instead, the Nittany Lions stumbled badly. They're currently 3-3, with wins against Nevada, Florida International, and Villanova—teams that, while respectable, aren't powerhouse programs (think of Villanova as a solid Ivy League school from Philadelphia, where even a win feels like a notch above average for Penn State). But the losses? Ouch. They fell to a 0-4 UCLA squad, and then, in a humiliating home defeat at Beaver Stadium, got edged out 22-21 by Northwestern, a team that was a three-touchdown underdog. To add insult to injury, Northwestern sealed the win by kneeling on the ball at Penn State's 2-yard line—essentially rubbing salt in the wound by refusing to even try for more points. Fans erupted in boos and chants of "Fire Franklin," and sure enough, ESPN broke the news of his firing on Sunday afternoon.
This marks Penn State's first 0-3 start in the Big Ten conference since 2003 (excluding the disrupted 2020 COVID season). For context, the Big Ten is one of the most competitive college football conferences, packed with rivalries and tough matchups that test even the best teams. Franklin took full responsibility, saying it was his job to own the results—he hired the staff, recruited the players, and believed in them, but admitted they weren't delivering right now.
Looking ahead, Penn State faces road games at Ohio State and Indiana, plus a home showdown with Rhule and Nebraska on November 22. One local writer from Harrisburg even predicts they could end up 3-9 this season—a far cry from the glory they envisioned.
Now, let's talk about Rhule's potential temptation. You might wonder: what's so wrong with returning to your roots? Alma mater connections can be incredibly powerful, pulling at heartstrings and evoking fond memories of past triumphs. Rhule might see Penn State's struggles and think, "I'm the perfect fit—I know what this program is and what it could be again." It's a seductive thought, especially for someone who's coached at Temple and calls the Northeast home.
But here's where controversy brews: should Rhule abandon the program he's painstakingly rebuilt just because his old school is calling? Rhule inherited Nebraska when it was a once-mighty team mired in decline. He didn't just take the job; he rolled up his sleeves, invested sweat and strategy, and transformed it. The Huskers are still evolving, with recruiting classes trending upward—meaning they're attracting top talent for future years—and boasting top-notch facilities and an adoring fanbase. When Rhule speaks about his team, his sincerity shines through; you can tell he genuinely loves the loyalty from his players, the administration, and the passionate Nebraska supporters.
Nebraska under Rhule is what most coaches dream of—a destination gig in a sport where job security is rare and pressure is constant. Perhaps 90% of college football coaches (or more) would jump at such an opportunity elsewhere. Yet, Rhule should cherish what he's built and politely turn down Penn State's allure. It's not just about loyalty; it's about honoring the progress and potential in Lincoln.
What do you think—should Rhule stick with Nebraska, or is Penn State too tempting to resist? Does alma mater loyalty trump building something new, or vice versa? Share your thoughts in the comments below; I'd love to hear your take on this heated debate!
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