The James Franklin era at Penn State ended last weekend when the Nittany Lions fired their coach of 12 years. Franklin left a significant impact, turning the team into a serious contender for the Big Ten and national titles after a tumultuous period. Nonetheless, his performance in key games and the shocking fall from a preseason No. 2 ranking to an 0-3 start in Big Ten play raised questions.

Was it justifiable for Penn State to part ways with one of its most accomplished coaches?

"‘Fair’ is not for me to decide," Franklin stated during his first public remarks since his dismissal on ESPN’s “College GameDay”. **“That’s for others to judge. It was difficult to comprehend at the time. However, I want to concentrate on the incredible moments I experienced. I had a great run there; Penn State was good to me and my family. Most importantly, I care for the players. I am a players’ coach, so leaving those young men and the committed recruits was the hardest part.”

Time will reveal if Penn State’s choice to change leadership was wise. Potentially, the next coach might achieve the success Franklin could not.

In the end, there was consistently a gap between Franklin’s results and the program’s expectations. Penn State’s struggles against top-ranked teams are well-documented: Franklin holds a dismal record of 2-21 against AP top-6 teams, and he went 15-31 against ranked opponents. Additionally, Franklin managed only four victories against Ohio State and Michigan during his tenure, with one conference title.

Whatever factors held him back in critical moments, Franklin indicated he plans to thoroughly reflect on his coaching style moving forward.

“There are aspects we excelled at better than anyone in the nation,” Franklin asserted. “But each offseason requires self-evaluation, especially now. How can we capitalize on opportunities? How do we make the fan base, alumni, and lettermen proud of our actions?”

It might be beneficial for both sides to have a reset. The expectations from Nittany Lions fans, coupled with underwhelming outcomes, created a pressure-cooker environment. Penn State will soon hire a new coach, likely someone highly qualified, to renew hope among the supporters. As for Franklin, he will likely find a suitable role where the pressure in Happy Valley is not as intense. The prevailing question is not if Franklin will return to coaching but where he chooses to go next.

During an insightful conversation, Franklin added:

“I don’t know anything else; I have been doing this for 30 years. I have no hobbies; I do not golf or fish. This profession is a core part of my identity and that of my family. We love it. I eagerly anticipate my next challenge, and we aim to secure a national championship at the highest level.”

Franklin’s name will continue to be prominent in coaching discussions as the carousel for 2025 unfolds. Arkansas, UCLA, and Virginia Tech would surely welcome him. However, more appealing opportunities may arise soon. Will Franklin pursue Florida if it becomes available? His phone is bound to ring, and the question of preference remains.