PSU Fans Call for James Franklin’s Firing Following Loss to NW and Drew Allar’s Injury
Following a disappointing 22-21 loss to Northwestern, tensions are rising among Penn State fans regarding head coach James Franklin’s future. The defeat marked the Nittany Lions’ third consecutive loss, with the team now holding a troubling 3-3 record for the season. The loss exacerbated concerns, particularly as the team has yet to win a game against Big Ten opponents this year.
Injury Concerns and Coaching Questions
The game saw quarterback Drew Allar sustain a significant injury late in the fourth quarter. Allar was hurt while scrambling on a critical third-down play, further complicating the team’s struggles. Franklin’s decision to pursue a fourth-down play proved futile as Northwestern regained possession, allowing them to run down the clock and secure the victory.
Coaching Decisions Under Scrutiny
- James Franklin’s future as head coach is now a hot topic among fans.
- He is under contract until 2031, with an annual salary of $8.5 million.
- A buyout clause of approximately $50 million remains if he is terminated without cause.
As the Nittany Lions were previously ranked No. 7, their loss to UCLA last week (42-37) added to the mounting pressure on Franklin. In fact, the Nittany Lions have made history by becoming the first program in 30 years to drop consecutive games as a 20-plus point favorite.
Upcoming Challenges
The schedule does not get any easier for Penn State. Following an October 18 matchup against Iowa, they will face two ranked opponents: No. 1 Ohio State and No. 7 Indiana. Unfortunately, Allar will be unavailable for the remainder of the season due to his recent injury. This development raises significant concerns about the team’s performance moving forward.
Looking Ahead
With discontent brewing among fans, the future of James Franklin remains uncertain. As the Nittany Lions enter a difficult stretch, the focus will be on how they adapt in Allar’s absence and the impact on Franklin’s coaching career.
