The head coaching landscape in college football is rapidly changing. As Lane Kiffin deliberates his future with Ole Miss and LSU, several schools are moving forward with their coaching searches. Penn State stands out as a key contender for a new head coach.
Penn State’s Search for a New Head Coach
With the recent firing of James Franklin, Penn State is eager to appoint a new leader. The urgency is driven by the recent loss of several four-star recruits. These significant commitments, including offensive tackle Marlen Bright, tight end Pierce Petersohn, and running back Messiah Mickens, have shifted to Virginia Tech.
This exodus has compounded Penn State’s challenges, resulting in a total of 19 lost commits over the past month. Given this situation, the Nittany Lions aim to make a swift decision on their coaching vacancy.
Leading Candidates for the Position
- Bob Chesney: Currently the head coach at James Madison, Chesney is viewed as a frontrunner among analysts and sportsbooks.
- Brian Daboll: The former New York Giants head coach has been endorsed by Nick Saban, who praised his coaching pedigree on “The Pat McAfee Show.”
- Terry Smith: As the interim head coach, Smith is another potential candidate for the PSU job.
Endorsements and Insights
Nick Saban expressed strong support for Daboll, citing his success as an offensive coordinator and his ability to relate to players. Saban stated, “He’s been in the Super Bowl several times with Bill Belichick and won.”
The buzz around Daboll has increased his chances for the Penn State role, with current odds hitting approximately 10%. However, the Nittany Lions’ search remains largely under the radar, with informal contacts suggesting a methodical approach.
As the coaching carousel spins, Penn State’s decision will have significant implications. The choice of head coach could shape the future of the program and its recruiting efforts.
