James Franklin has been at the helm of Penn State football since 2014, guiding the Nittany Lions through a series of highs and lows. His tenure has been marked by notable successes, including multiple 11-win seasons and a Big Ten Championship appearance. However, his record against ranked teams, the recent overhaul of the running backs coaching staff, and the substantial buyout clause in his contract have been subjects of scrutiny and discussion.
Record vs Ranked Teams
One of the most significant criticisms of Franklin’s coaching tenure has been his performance against top-ranked opponents. As of the latest data, Franklin holds a 4-21 record against Top 10 teams, including a recent loss to Oregon, which dropped his record to 2-21 against teams ranked in the top six of the AP Top 25. This statistic has fueled debates among fans and analysts about his ability to win crucial games.
Despite these challenges, Franklin has managed to secure victories in other significant matchups, showcasing his capacity to lead the team in high-pressure situations. The inconsistency in performance against ranked teams remains a focal point for discussions about his future with the program.
Running Backs Coaching Overhaul
In February 2025, Penn State made a strategic move by hiring Stan Drayton as the new running backs coach. Drayton, a 32-year coaching veteran, joined the Nittany Lions after spending the last three seasons as head coach at Temple. This decision came on the heels of Ja’Juan Seider’s departure to Notre Dame, where he was appointed as the running backs coach.
The change in coaching staff reflects a concerted effort to revitalize the running game, which has seen fluctuations in performance over recent seasons. With Drayton’s extensive experience, particularly in developing running backs, there is optimism about the potential for improvement in this critical area of the offense.
Contract Buyout and Future Considerations
Franklin’s contract, signed in 2021, is a 10-year extension that runs through the 2031 season. Under the terms of this contract, Franklin earns a base salary of $500,000, supplemented by performance-related incentives. However, the buyout clause has been a topic of considerable attention.
If Penn State were to part ways with Franklin without cause, the financial implications would be substantial. The buyout amount is calculated based on the remaining years of the contract, with the university required to pay Franklin’s base salary and supplemental pay for each remaining year. This arrangement makes it financially challenging for the university to make a change, even if performance expectations are not met.
Conversely, if Franklin chooses to leave for another opportunity, the buyout is more favorable to him. Should he depart in 2024 or 2025, he would be required to pay a $2 million buyout, which decreases to $1 million for the remainder of the contract duration.
Conclusion
James Franklin‘s tenure at Penn State has been marked by significant achievements and notable challenges. While his record against ranked teams remains a point of contention, recent coaching changes and the structure of his contract suggest that both Franklin and the university are committed to navigating the complexities of collegiate football to achieve sustained success. The coming seasons will likely be pivotal in determining the long-term trajectory of Franklin’s career at Penn State.
