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Penn State Nittany Fans and Players Protest, Demand James Franklin’s Exit
State College, PA—A wave of frustration has erupted among Penn State football fans and players, culminating in protests calling for the resignation of head coach James Franklin. The protests, organized through social media and campus groups, follow a season where the Nittany Lions failed to meet lofty expectations, including falling short in key games against Big Ten rivals.
Critics of Franklin point to his inability to secure a College Football Playoff berth despite consistently strong recruiting classes. “We’ve had the talent but not the results,” said one student protester at Beaver Stadium. “It’s time for a change at the top.”
Some players have reportedly expressed frustration with Franklin’s strategic decisions and game management. While no active player has publicly spoken out, sources close to the team suggest dissatisfaction with the program’s direction. Franklin’s tenure, which began in 2014, includes a Big Ten Championship in 2016 and multiple bowl victories. However, recent seasons have seen stagnation, leading to increasing discontent among the Penn State community.
Supporters of Franklin argue that his recruiting prowess and consistent top-10 finishes are reasons to stay the course. “Replacing a coach like Franklin isn’t easy, and it might set us back,” said a longtime fan.
The protests add pressure on university leadership, particularly Athletic Director Pat Kraft, who has publicly supported Franklin in the past. With Penn State’s passionate fanbase making its voice heard, the administration faces a pivotal decision in determining the program’s future.
Neither James Franklin nor Penn State Athletics has issued a statement addressing the protests as of this writing. The situation continues to develop as fans and players push for clarity on the team’s direction.