Press Article: High Stakes for James Franklin and Penn State in 2025 Season
With the 2025 college football season looming, James Franklin and the Penn State Nittany Lions find themselves at a critical juncture. After reaching the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinals last season, Franklin’s reputation as a coach has faced scrutiny despite overcoming past hurdles with wins against SMU and Boise State.
However, a painful 27-24 loss to Notre Dame in the semifinals, marred by an ill-timed fourth-quarter interception from quarterback Drew Allar and a lackluster performance from the wide receivers, has reignited skepticism about Franklin’s ability to win big games. Critics point out that Penn State’s path to the playoffs may have been the easiest among contenders, compounded by another defeat against Ohio State, marking their eighth consecutive loss to the Buckeyes.
As the team gears up for the upcoming season, expectations are at an all-time high. Coaches speaking anonymously to Athlon Sports have hailed this as Franklin’s most talented roster, with one even suggesting they are favorites to win the league. The high-powered backfield, led by Allar and two standout running backs, is considered a formidable force.
Various betting odds place Penn State among the favorites for the national championship alongside powerhouse programs like Ohio State, Georgia, and Texas. High-stakes matchups await, featuring a home game against Oregon and a pivotal road game in Ohio. Should they stumble against these rivals, Franklin may face intense scrutiny and criticism.
As one Big Ten coach noted, the 2025 season is pivotal for Franklin’s legacy: "If they can’t change their big-game problems with this group, it’s not happening." With the expanded 12-team CFP offering new opportunities, the Nittany Lions have a chance to solidify their position—but the pressure is unmistakably on.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
