Sun Nov 30 17:10:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

Penn State is actively searching for a new head football coach to replace James Franklin, who was recently fired. The program has suffered a significant blow to its 2026 recruiting class, losing 19 commits since Franklin’s dismissal. While James Madison’s Bob Chesney is a popular pick, former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll has emerged as a potential candidate, receiving a strong endorsement from Nick Saban. Interim head coach Terry Smith is also considered a realistic option.

News Article:

Penn State Coaching Search Heats Up Amid Recruiting Losses

State College, PA – November 29, 2025 – Penn State University is in a race against time to find its next head football coach, as the program grapples with significant recruiting setbacks following the firing of James Franklin. The Nittany Lions have seen a mass exodus of talent from their 2026 recruiting class, with a staggering 19 decommitments in just over a month, including high-profile four-star prospects like offensive tackle Marlen Bright, tight end Pierce Petersohn, and running back Messiah Mickens.

While the coaching carousel spins across the nation with programs like Ole Miss and LSU awaiting Lane Kiffin’s decision, Penn State’s search remains shrouded in secrecy. James Madison head coach Bob Chesney has been widely speculated as a frontrunner, but a surprising name has entered the conversation: former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll.

Adding fuel to the fire, legendary coach Nick Saban has given Daboll a resounding endorsement. “I love Brian,” Saban stated earlier this week. “He did a great job here for us… He’s a very good coach, he’s a bright guy, he’s a good recruiter… I think that would be an outstanding hire.” Sportsbooks have even seen Daboll’s odds of landing the job slightly increase following Saban’s remarks.

However, Chesney remains a strong contender, and interim head coach Terry Smith is also reportedly in the mix. The urgency to fill the position is mounting as Penn State aims to stabilize its recruiting efforts and restore confidence in the program’s future. The decision is expected soon.

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