No. 7 Penn State experienced a shocking upset against UCLA on Saturday, marking the Bruins’ first victory of the season. UCLA, previously 0-4, triumphed with a score of 42-37, becoming the first 0-4 team since 1985 to defeat a top-10 opponent. This loss stirred discontent among Penn State fans, who are now questioning head coach James Franklin’s leadership.
Game Highlights and Key Performers
Bruins quarterback Nico Iamaleava delivered a standout performance, scoring five total touchdowns. This victory concluded Penn State’s two-game losing streak, further deepening concerns about Franklin’s leadership after he guided the team to the College Football Playoff semifinal less than a year ago.
Statistical Breakdown
- Final Score: UCLA 42, Penn State 37
- Penn State’s Record: 3-2
- UCLA’s Record: 1-4
- James Franklin’s Buyout: $56 million
- Penn State’s Record Against Top-10 Opponents: 4-21
- Penn State’s Record Against Big Ten Top-10 Teams: 1-18
- Penn State’s Rushing Yards: 157 yards
Coaching Concerns for Penn State
Fans are expressing dissatisfaction with Franklin, particularly after this defeat and the loss to No. 6 Oregon the previous week. With this latest setback, Franklin’s overall record against top-10 teams at Penn State has raised alarm, especially given the nature of the defeats.
The unexpected loss to an unranked opponent under interim coaching adds further scrutiny to Franklin’s strategies. This marks the first occasion since 2017 that his team has allowed an unranked opponent to score 42 points or more.
Upcoming Schedule for Penn State
Penn State’s next opponents include Northwestern and Iowa, both unranked teams. Following these matchups, they face a crucial game against No. 1 Ohio State on November 1. Franklin and his team must regroup swiftly to regain their momentum and address the concerns surrounding his leadership.
