There are few schools in college football that carry the weight of expectations quite like Penn State. Each season, the Nittany Lions find themselves under the spotlight, and head coach James Franklin is acutely aware of this reality. As the program continues to evolve, Franklin believes that the school’s commitment is finally aligning with those lofty aspirations.
### A New Era of Commitment
This shift in commitment has been particularly noticeable over the past few seasons, especially under the guidance of athletic director Pat Kraft. The recent hiring of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles marks a significant step in demonstrating that Penn State is serious about its ambitions. Franklin emphasizes that this move is not just a change in personnel but a reflection of a broader commitment to excellence.
“Yeah, I think it’s very telling,” Franklin shared. “I think it goes back to that statement I made earlier that, you know, in my — I guess what is it going on 12 years now? I think the last two years, our commitment has matched our expectations — I don’t know if I would have said that before.”
Franklin’s confidence is palpable. He acknowledges the passionate fan base that surrounds the program, stating, “I think it speaks volumes. I think it speaks volumes.” This is not just about winning; it’s about building a culture of success that resonates with everyone involved.
### The Path to Hiring Jim Knowles
The decision to hire a new defensive coordinator surprised some, but Franklin was prepared for the transition following Tom Allen’s departure. It’s a process that he takes seriously, one that requires careful consideration and a proactive approach.
“So, as you guys know, I always have a list ahead of time,” Franklin explained. “Will Reimann does a really good job for us in that where he’ll bring names to me, I’ll bring names to him. Whenever we hire a new staff member, I always ask them feedback about who’s the best people you’ve worked with, where you came from, and those types of things.”
The meticulous nature of this process is essential. Franklin knows that finding the right fit is not always straightforward. “There’s not as many qualified people out there as people may think,” he added. This insight underscores the challenges that come with such high stakes.
### The Impact of Jim Knowles
With a storied history in college football, Penn State has consistently been a powerhouse. The Nittany Lions have achieved at least 10 wins in each of the last three seasons, and now they are poised to take the next step. The hiring of Jim Knowles, who previously served as Ohio State’s defensive coordinator and was the highest-paid coordinator in college football, signals a bold move toward that goal.
Franklin had to navigate the timing of this hire carefully. After Knowles led Ohio State to a national championship on the defensive side of the ball, Franklin had to wait for the right moment to initiate discussions. “You know, I think I got a call at 5:40 in the morning two days after the national championship, and that’s when I thought it may be real,” he recalled.
The recruitment process was complex, filled with twists and turns. “There’s guys that you think you may be able to get and you can’t,” Franklin said, reflecting on the challenges of filling such a critical position. “We looked at NFL guys, we looked at college guys, kind of kept narrowing the list down, hadn’t made any offers.”
### Expectations in Happy Valley
As the Nittany Lions gear up for the upcoming season, the expectations are monumental. The addition of Jim Knowles brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective, but can Penn State rise to the occasion? The question looms large in Happy Valley.
“What’s great about being at a place like Penn State, I’ve been at places in my career where you have a dream list and they’re not really realistic,” Franklin noted. “Your dream list at Penn State is realistic, specifically now with the support that we have.” This optimism reflects the potential that lies ahead for the program.
With the foundation set and the right pieces in place, Franklin and his team are eager to prove that they can meet the high expectations. The blend of talent, experience, and commitment creates a promising outlook for the Nittany Lions.
### The Road Ahead
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Penn State. The combination of a passionate fan base, a strong coaching staff, and a history of success sets the stage for what could be a remarkable journey. The excitement is palpable, and the stakes have never been higher.
In the end, the question remains: will Penn State live up to the expectations that have been set? With the hiring of Jim Knowles and the renewed commitment from the administration, the Nittany Lions are ready to tackle the challenges ahead. The stage is set for a thrilling season of college football, and Penn State is determined to make its mark.
