Penn State AD Pat Kraft speaks on James Franklin firing, says it took more than a 3-game losing streak to make move

It took a lot for Penn State athletic director Pat Kraft to fire James Franklin. Regardless of whether it was the right decision, parting ways with Franklin meant the school would have to pay a $50 million buyout to the coach, the second-highest total in college football history.

But Kraft made this decision. Although Penn State started the season 3–0, three straight losses removed the team from championship contention. This was enough for Kraft to ignore this important figure and fire Franklin.

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That three-game losing streak wasn’t the only factor that led to Franklin’s dismissal, however. Kraft spoke about the decision Monday, saying he considered many things before deciding Franklin should go.

Kraft added that he knew it was the right decision on Saturday, but chose to sleep on it to ensure he felt the same way on Sunday.

When asked what he was looking for in Penn State’s next head coach, Kraft said he wanted someone who could make Penn State “the best program in the country.” Kraft also sent a message to fans, saying they may hate him and they may hate Franklin, but they should support the players this season.

With Franklin out, Penn State will be coached by assistant Terry Smith for the remainder of the season. Smith is serving in the role on an interim basis, but he will have the opportunity to earn the position full-time based on his performance, Kraft said Monday.

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Smith addressed his role Monday and was extremely complimentary of Franklin and the work he has done at the school. Smith thanked Franklin for putting Penn State back on the map. Smith also said Franklin was able to speak to the team on Sunday, which was an emotional moment.

Smith spoke about his new role, saying he was proud to have played at Penn State under Joe Paterno and coached under Franklin. “I love this place. I bleed Blue and White,” Smith added.

Although the end of Franklin’s term was disappointing, it may prove difficult to live up to his accomplishments. Franklin posted a 104-45 record in 12 seasons at Penn State. This record was marred by difficulties in big games, notably against Michigan and Ohio State. Although those struggles weren’t enough to cause Franklin to lose his job in years past, Penn State entered the season No. 2 in the nation. This was supposed to be the year they overcame these problems.

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Even so, a .698 winning percentage is hard to ignore, even if it has some flaws.

In his statement Monday, Kraft made it clear that he expects Penn State to be the best team in the country. Franklin brought them closer to that status on several occasions, but couldn’t push the Nittany Lions over that hump.

Whoever the team hires next — whether it’s Smith or someone currently outside the organization — expectations will be extremely high. And, as Kraft showed this weekend, no amount of money will stop Penn State from taking action if the next man up can’t get the job done.