🚨James Franklin Fires Back: Penn State Coach Challenges SEC and Notre Dame Over Scheduling Standards in Fiery Debate
Penn State head coach James Franklin is not holding back.
When Penn State was preparing to take on Notre Dame in last year’s Orange Bowl, James Franklin made headlines when he called for every college football team to be in a conference. The Fighting Irish, of course, compete as an independent program.
As the conference schedule debate returns to the spotlight, Franklin reiterated that stance – one he said he’s had for the last decade. But he also pointed out the difference between the Big Ten’s nine-game conference schedule and the SEC’s nine-game slate, which is front-and-center amid College Football Playoff talks.
A Not-So-Subtle Jab at the SEC
The SEC, long considered the powerhouse of college football, has frequently drawn criticism for including lower-tier non-conference matchups late in the season — a practice Franklin subtly criticized.
“There’s a difference between playing top-ranked conference games in November and scheduling a team you know you’ll beat just before the playoff rankings,” he added. “We don’t get those breathers in the Big Ten.”
The remarks are part of a broader frustration among coaches outside the SEC who believe that perceived conference strength sometimes outweighs actual scheduling rigor. For Franklin, it’s not about rivalry — it’s about respect and recognition earned on the field.
Notre Dame Also Under the Spotlight
Franklin also took aim at Notre Dame’s independence, suggesting that the Fighting Irish benefit from a scheduling model that avoids the week-to-week grind of conference play, yet still allows them to remain playoff contenders.
“We’re out here playing nine or ten straight weeks of ranked teams. If we’re going to crown champions based on resumes, then let’s really look at the full picture,” he said.
Fans, Media React to Franklin’s Bold Stand
Unsurprisingly, Franklin’s remarks have sparked debate across fanbases and media circles. While some see his comments as a justified call for reform, others view them as strategic posturing ahead of another critical season.
