James Franklin, head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, recently addressed the media following his team’s narrow 30–24 double-overtime loss to the Oregon Ducks. The game, held on September 27, 2025, marked Penn State’s first defeat of the season and their first Big Ten loss. In his postgame press conference, Franklin discussed the team’s performance, the controversial overturned fumble call, and his perspective on the game’s outcome.
Postgame Press Conference Highlights
Reflecting on the Game
Franklin acknowledged the team’s effort but emphasized the need for improvement. He highlighted that while the players showed resilience, there were critical moments where execution faltered. “We had our chances,” Franklin stated. “But in the end, we didn’t make the plays when it mattered most.”
Addressing the Overturned Fumble Call
A pivotal moment in the game occurred when an apparent Penn State fumble recovery was overturned after review. Franklin expressed his disagreement with the decision, stating, “I believe it was a clear recovery, and the reversal was a tough pill to swallow.” He refrained from criticizing the officials directly but made it clear that the call had a significant impact on the game’s momentum.
On Quarterback Drew Allar’s Performance
When asked about quarterback Drew Allar’s performance, Franklin was supportive yet constructive. “Drew showed poise in critical moments,” he said. “But there are areas where he can grow, and we’ll work on those in practice.” Allar threw for over 300 yards and two touchdowns but also had a crucial interception in overtime.
Fan Frustration and Team Morale
Franklin acknowledged the frustration among fans but urged them to remain supportive. “We understand the passion of our fans,” he noted. “But we need to focus on the next game and continue to build as a team.” He emphasized that the season is long, and a single loss doesn’t define the team’s potential.
James Franklin’s Net Worth and Career Overview
Coaching Career
James Franklin began his head coaching career at Vanderbilt University before taking the helm at Penn State in 2014. Under his leadership, the Nittany Lions have seen significant success, including multiple New Year’s Six bowl appearances and a Big Ten Championship. His coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, player development, and community involvement.
Contract and Salary
In 2021, Franklin signed a 10-year, $75 million extension with Penn State, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football. His annual salary is reported to be $8.5 million, with additional performance-based incentives. These incentives include bonuses for winning the Big Ten Championship and making appearances in major bowl games.
Net Worth
As of 2025, James Franklin’s estimated net worth is approximately $25 million. This wealth is primarily derived from his coaching contracts, with additional income from speaking engagements and endorsements. His financial success reflects his prominence in the college football community and his ability to lead successful programs.
Looking Ahead
Despite the loss to Oregon, Franklin remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. “This is a learning experience,” he remarked. “We’ll take the lessons from this game and apply them moving forward.” The Nittany Lions are set to face several challenging opponents in the coming weeks, and Franklin’s leadership will be crucial in guiding the team through these tests.
Conclusion
James Franklin’s postgame press conference provided valuable insights into the Penn State football team’s performance and his perspective on the loss to Oregon. While the defeat was disappointing, Franklin’s focus on improvement and team cohesion underscores his commitment to the program’s success. With a strong coaching foundation and a dedicated roster, the Nittany Lions are poised to rebound and continue their pursuit of excellence in the remainder of the season.
