There’s a continued lack of perspective—whether unintentional or willful—among both professional media and social media.
Recently, former Penn State Football players Jameial Lyons and Kaveion Keys were charged with rape and other sex crimes, according to court documents released Tuesday.
The two were dismissed from the university in August, following the allegations.
“We are aware of the serious charges against Mr. Keys and Mr. Lyons, who are no longer enrolled at the university,” Penn State athletics said in a statement. “The safety of our community is our top priority, and Penn State takes any report of sexual assault or misconduct very seriously and investigates any and all reports.”
The alleged incident took place on July 7, and both players were arraigned Wednesday in State College. A preliminary hearing is set for October 30.
The situation reignited when Penn State head coach James Franklin was asked about the investigation during a press conference.
Franklin, understandably, declined to comment, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. Despite his refusal, media outlets continued to press for a statement, and Franklin exited the press conference.
It’s important to note that Franklin personally recruited both Lyons and Keys, building relationships with their families.
He was also the one responsible for delivering the news of their dismissal.
Considering Penn State’s past controversies, the university cannot afford any missteps in how it handles such incidents. The alleged victims, too, are facing the fallout, their lives irreversibly changed, while some media outlets continue to prioritize headlines over responsible journalism.
The university has made its stance on the matter clear, yet reporters seemed more concerned with obtaining soundbites for attention-grabbing headlines.
As Penn State prepares for a critical road game against Wisconsin, the media’s focus on the investigation, rather than the team’s unbeaten season, suggests a disregard for context and timing.
Why push Franklin to comment on an investigation involving two individuals no longer part of the program?
The media, by its own admission, knew no response was forthcoming.
Yet, the questions persisted, seeking clickbait material with little regard for the broader consequences—for the victims, the team, the season, or Franklin himself, who is trying to keep his players focused on football. Franklin’s frustration was palpable, but the media seemed indifferent.
Penn State media and social media critics have jumped on Franklin, labeling him a “coward” or “narcissist” for walking out.
But Franklin, perhaps more than anyone, understands the impact such incidents can have on a program.
After all, he was the one who rebuilt Penn State football after its previous scandal, and the university is still grappling with the fallout more than a decade later.
Franklin’s emotional connection to his players, their families, and the university runs deep. To be attacked for refusing to comment on an ongoing investigation is, at best, misguided and, at worst, opportunistic.
If the media wants information, it should seek out law enforcement or court records rather than badgering a coach trying to focus on football.
Franklin’s job is to coach the program he rebuilt, not to appease media outlets hungry for attention. By focusing on his team, Franklin is staying true to his mission.
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He has been recognized for his work as a photographer and has also contributed to various publications including PennLive and The Weather Channel.
Brad is an Air Force veteran, coach and competitive runner that grew up a Nittany Lions fan as his family is originally from the State College area.
His diverse skillset and experiences provide for interesting perspectives on the college football, and sports topics of the day.
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