NEWS NOW: Will James Franklin Finally Make a Last Decision About the Minnesota….see more
As the college football season barrels toward its conclusion, the big question looming over Penn State fans and the broader college football landscape is: Will James Franklin finally decide to leave for Minnesota? The rumor mill has been churning for weeks, with speculation growing by the day about Franklin’s future. The head coach, who has been with Penn State since 2014, has yet to make a clear decision, leaving many to wonder whether he will stay in Happy Valley or make the leap to coach the Golden Gophers in Minnesota.
The Minnesota Opening
The Minnesota Golden Gophers, a Big Ten school with a rich football tradition but a relatively modest national profile, recently parted ways with head coach P.J. Fleck after a disappointing season. Fleck, who had served as Minnesota’s head coach since 2017, was let go amid frustration over inconsistent results and a failure to take the team to the next level in a competitive Big Ten West division. The Golden Gophers’ search for a new leader has brought Franklin’s name into the spotlight, given his impressive track record at Penn State, where he has consistently led the Nittany Lions to bowl games and developed top-tier talent.
Franklin’s Tenure at Penn State
James Franklin has been a steady force at Penn State for nearly a decade. Under his leadership, the Nittany Lions have experienced significant highs, including a Big Ten championship in 2016 and multiple New Year’s Six bowl appearances. Franklin has been praised for his recruiting prowess and his ability to develop quarterbacks, making Penn State a perennial contender in the Big Ten East, a division known for its competitive nature.
However, despite his successes, Franklin has faced growing pressure to break through and consistently challenge Ohio State for the top spot in the Big Ten. While he’s won numerous games and secured bowl victories, his teams have often come up short in crucial matchups against elite competition. This has led some to wonder whether Franklin has taken Penn State as far as he can, or if a change of scenery, like the Minnesota job, might be the key to revitalizing his career.
The Draw of Minnesota
On paper, Minnesota might seem like a step back for a coach with Franklin’s resume. Penn State is one of the most prestigious programs in the country, with deep traditions and a rabid fanbase. Minnesota, while a respected program, does not have the same national recognition, nor does it boast the same level of facilities or financial backing as a Penn State. However, there are several factors that make the Minnesota job intriguing for a coach like Franklin.
First, Minnesota is in a more manageable conference environment. The Big Ten West, while competitive, is often seen as more open for success than the powerhouse division of the Big Ten East, which is dominated by Ohio State and Michigan. With the right leadership, Minnesota could potentially rise to the top of the Big Ten West and become a perennial contender for the division crown. Additionally, the state of Minnesota has a rich football talent pool, and Franklin’s recruiting prowess could help him attract top-tier players to the Gophers.
Another factor that could draw Franklin to Minnesota is the opportunity for a fresh start. After nearly a decade at Penn State, he may feel that a new challenge in a less pressure-filled environment could allow him to build something special in Minneapolis, without the constant comparison to Penn State’s past and the weight of expectations that come with coaching a historic program.
What’s Holding Franklin Back?
If James Franklin is truly considering the Minnesota job, it begs the question: why hasn’t he made a decision yet? One major factor could be his commitment to Penn State and the relationships he has built over the years with players, recruits, and staff. Leaving a program that he has helped to rebuild from the aftermath of the Joe Paterno scandal would be a monumental decision, and Franklin may be weighing the emotional and professional impact of such a move.
Another consideration is the current state of Penn State football. The Nittany Lions have shown significant improvement under Franklin’s leadership, and with a talented roster returning next season, it’s possible that Franklin sees the program as being on the verge of another breakthrough. The allure of finally toppling Ohio State and Michigan for the Big Ten East crown, or even making a run for the College Football Playoff, might make him hesitant to walk away.
Finally, it’s worth noting that Franklin has a contract with Penn State that runs through 2031, meaning the financial implications of leaving may be significant. The buyout clause in his contract could also be a consideration, as leaving before fulfilling the terms of his deal would result in a hefty payout to the university.
Conclusion: The Waiting Game
As the search for P.J. Fleck’s replacement at Minnesota continues, all eyes are on James Franklin. Will he make the jump to the Golden Gophers, or will he remain loyal to the Nittany Lions and finish what he started in Happy Valley? For now, the decision remains unclear.
One thing is certain: James Franklin is one of the most respected coaches in college football, and his decision, whatever it may be, will have major implications for both Penn State and Minnesota. As the clock ticks toward the end of the season, college football fans will be anxiously awaiting the answer to this high-stakes coaching question.
