James Franklin, Penn State’s head football coach, has been a polarizing figure throughout his tenure with the Nittany Lions. While he’s achieved a fair amount of success, guiding the team to multiple 10-win seasons and an overall winning record, Franklin has yet to overcome one critical hurdle: defeating top-tier opponents in high-stakes games. Following recent losses to highly-ranked teams like Ohio State, fans and critics alike have begun calling for his departure, raising questions about his contract, buyout, and what it might take for Penn State to part ways with its coach.
Why Some Fans Think Franklin Should Be Fired
The primary frustration among fans stems from Franklin’s inability to win big games against top teams, which has created a perception that the program has hit a ceiling under his leadership. For instance, Franklin holds a 1-10 record against Ohio State and a 3-18 record against teams ranked in the top 10, records that suggest Penn State has struggled to establish itself as a true national contender. The recent loss to Ohio State, where the offense failed to score a touchdown, underscored these struggles and reignited criticism of Franklin’s ability to elevate the team in high-stakes matchups.
According to top sportsbooks, Penn State are now +3300 outsiders to win the Big Ten this year after the loss.
Franklin’s Contract Details
In November 2021, Penn State extended Franklin’s contract, locking him in through 2031. Here’s a look at the main financial components:
- Base Salary and Supplemental Pay: Franklin receives a total of $7 million annually.
- Retention Bonus: An annual retention bonus of $500,000, paid every December 31.
- Life Insurance Loan: An additional $1 million per year, structured as a loan toward life insurance.
This arrangement brings Franklin’s total annual compensation to $8.5 million.
Performance Incentives
Franklin’s contract also includes a series of performance-based incentives. However, they are capped at $1 million per year. They are as follows:
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Big Ten East Division:
- $150,000 for finishing first in the Big Ten East.
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Big Ten Championship:
- $250,000 for an appearance in the Big Ten Championship Game.
- $350,000 for winning the Big Ten Championship Game.
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College Football Playoff (CFP):
- $400,000 for making the CFP.
- $500,000 for finishing as the national runner-up.
- $800,000 for winning the national championship.
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Coach of the Year Awards:
- $100,000 for being named Big Ten Coach of the Year.
- $150,000 for being named National Coach of the Year.
Buyout Details
For Penn State to terminate Franklin’s contract without cause, they would face a substantial buyout based on the years remaining. The buyout formula is the sum of Franklin’s base salary, supplemental pay, and life insurance loan, totaling $8 million annually. For each remaining year on the contract, Penn State would owe Franklin $8 million.
For example, if Penn State decided to part ways with Franklin in 2024, with seven years left on his contract, the buyout would total $56 million. This high buyout cost is a critical factor that complicates any potential decision to move on from Franklin.
Conclusion
James Franklin’s tenure at Penn State has been marked by significant achievements and frustrating setbacks. His contract, structured to reward sustained success and big-game wins, reflects the university’s high expectations. However, Franklin’s substantial buyout remains a major financial obstacle if Penn State were to consider a change. Whether Franklin can overcome his big-game struggles or Penn State decides to take on the steep buyout costs, the road ahead for both the coach and the program remains under intense scrutiny.
