Mon Oct 13 18:40:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Penn State Fires James Franklin, Coaching Search Focuses on Cignetti and Rhule**

**STATE COLLEGE, PA** – In a stunning development, Penn State University has terminated the contract of Head Football Coach James Franklin, effective immediately. The move comes after a string of disappointing losses, including a recent upset against Northwestern, leaving the Nittany Lions with a lackluster record and falling short of expectations. The university will absorb a significant buyout of approximately $45 million.

Athletic Director Pat Kraft is reportedly already deep into the search for Franklin’s replacement, with two names emerging as early front-runners: Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti and Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule.

Cignetti, a Pittsburgh native, has engineered a remarkable turnaround at Indiana, leading the Hoosiers to a 17-2 record midway through his second season and a College Football Playoff appearance in his first year. His team’s recent victory over Oregon, a game that showcased a dominant defense and potent offense, has further fueled speculation that he is a top target for Penn State. Cignetti’s buyout is $13 million before Dec. 1 and $10 million after.

Rhule, currently at Nebraska, also has strong ties to Penn State. A former Nittany Lions linebacker, Rhule previously worked with Kraft when the latter was Athletic Director at Temple. Rhule led Temple to consecutive 10-win seasons, including a victory over Penn State in 2015, and also revived the Baylor program in the wake of scandal. Rhule’s buyout is $5 million

Beyond Cignetti and Rhule, other potential candidates include Duke’s Manny Diaz, who previously served as Franklin’s defensive coordinator, Vanderbilt’s Clark Lea, and Iowa State’s Matt Campbell.

**About The Author**
Bruce Feldman is the National College Football Insider for The Athletic. One of the sport’s leading voices, he also is a sideline reporter for FOX College Football. Bruce has covered college football nationally for more than 20 years and is the author of numerous books on the topic, including Swing Your Sword: Leading The Charge in Football and Life with Mike Leach and most recently The QB: The Making of Modern Quarterbacks. Follow Bruce on Twitter @BruceFeldmanCFB

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