The Nittany Lions coach takes a few shots.
Stephen A. Smith has harsh words for James Franklin amid Penn State's collapse originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith didn't hold back after Penn State’s 42-37 loss to winless UCLA, criticizing head coach James Franklin and his staff during Monday’s episode of First Take.
Smith began by calling out Penn State’s defense against the Bruins, who posted 446 total yards against the Nittany Lions. “That’s pathetic,” Smith said. He poined defensive coordinator Jim Knowles’ $3.1 million salary, which makes him the highest-paid coordinator in college football. “You got him from Ohio State for $3.1 million, and UCLA drops 446 yards on you?"
Smith then turned his focus to Franklin by expressing disappointment in the longtime Penn State coach’s inability to win big games. “I’m unapologetic about rooting for African-American coaches. I want them to win,” Smith said. “But respectfully, sir, you’ve got to make the most of it. You’re 1-10 against Ohio State, 3-7 against Michigan. 4-12 against AP Top 10 opponents. This is Penn State we’re talking about.”
The Nittany Lions’ recent collapse after starting the season ranked No. 2 in the country and now falling out of the Top 25 is unheard of in recent years. With upcoming matchups against top-ranked Ohio State and No. 7 Indiana could make matters worse.
“You can’t be a coach at a top-notch program known for repeatedly losing the big games,” Smith said. “You’ve got to win sometimes. You can’t be losing like this-- it’s unacceptable.”
While Franklin has had success leading Penn State to the College Football Playoff, consistency against elite opponent is missing. The Nittany Lions will try to again when they host Northwestern on Saturday (3:30 p.m. ET, FS1).
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Category: General Sports
