Can James Franklin, Penn State Football Finally Shake Ohio State Monkey Off Program’s Back?
What if you faced an opponent ten times and only won once? How would it feel to prepare all year to beat your greatest rival, only to lose—again and again? This is James Franklin’s reality against Ohio State.
Penn State’s head coach has tried everything to overcome the Buckeyes, cycling through five offensive coordinators and four quarterbacks.
Yet, since 2016’s thrilling blocked-field-goal win, victory has remained elusive.
Penn State Football often plays Ohio State closer than anyone, with an average loss margin of just eight points over the past seven matchups. It’s clear Franklin‘s team has the talent; they’re simply a touchdown away from reshaping their legacy.
The path forward?
Unpredictability.
With new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki’s aggressive, all-gas approach, the Nittany Lions have transformed. Their rushing game has surged to 197 yards per game, and Junior QB Drew Allar has them ranked third nationally in completion rate—far from the cautious style of years past.
The pieces are finally in place.
Elite talent, innovative play-calling, and a staff unafraid to attack.
But, if Franklin wants to shake the monkey off his back, this is the year it must happen.
Ohio State is the last major hurdle to an undefeated season, and for Franklin, this showdown might define his legacy.
It’s now or never for James Franklin and Penn State.
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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.