Time has finally run out for James Franklin. Another loss is possible for the Nittany Lions. There is also a probability of two more losses on their schedule. His era in State College is coming to a close.    

This season was when Penn State was expected to follow in the footsteps of Michigan and Ohio State. They were supposed to bring home the National Championship.   

The key players passed on the NFL to come back and bring a title to State College.  This was the year James Franklin was supposed to change the narrative from small-game James to big-game James.

What happened? The best laid plans of mice and men.  

Losing a double-overtime game to Oregon is one thing. Nevertheless, a championship-caliber team doesn’t trail by 20 at halftime to a winless UCLA.   It was not a last-second field goal that sunk them.  Penn State was dominated from the start of the game.

The coach blamed a multitude of factors. He blamed these instead of himself.   Not a good look, JF. 

Now the question is not if, but when, they part ways.   Reports show that the buyout amounts to just under $50 million as of January 1st. This amount is difficult for many programs to swallow.  

The Buffalo Bills might win the Super Bowl for Terry Pegula. If they do, he may decide to step up to cover a significant portion of the buyout. Adidas can also help its flagship school repair its image. The school might also need to persuade Franklin to step down. It is a combination of all three and more.   

Regardless, once this season is finished, it is time to move the program ahead.

The next question will be who they turn to. They need someone to take the program back to a championship and big game level.    Removing the Franklin will cost approximately $50 million. They must focus their search on individuals with a vested interest.

These individuals should be interested in restoring the program to its former glory. They should value the program even more than the highest paycheck they can earn.