### Matt Rhule's Coaching Future: A Potential Shift to Penn State Amidst Rumors - Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule has emerged as a leading candidate for the head coaching position at Penn State following the firing of James Franklin. This speculation intensified after Franklin's dismissal, which has left the Nittany Lions searching for a new leader to revitalize their program. Rhule, who has a strong connection to Penn State as a former player, is currently in his third season at Nebraska, where he has led the team to a promising start this year [https://www.newsweek.com/sports/ncaa/matt-rhule-penn-state-nebraska-upset-10899495]. ### Breakdown of the Current Situation and Speculation 1. **Coaching Changes at Penn State**: - James Franklin was fired after a disappointing start to the season, prompting immediate speculation about potential replacements, including Rhule [https://www.sportskeeda.com/college-football/news-i-mess-around-matt-rhule-drops-final-verdict-penn-state-coaching-rumors-james-franklin-part-ways]. 2. **Rhule's Connection to Penn State**: - Rhule played at Penn State from 1994-1997 and has maintained ties to the program, making him a natural candidate for the role [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/penn_state_could_target_two_high_profile_coaches_to_replace_james_franklin/s1_127_42889702]. 3. **Current Performance at Nebraska**: - Under Rhule's leadership, Nebraska has shown significant improvement, currently holding a 5-1 record this season, which has raised his profile as a desirable coaching candidate [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/another_future_nebraska_opponent_fires_coach_this_one_stirring_matt_rhule_discussions/s1_16829_42889021]. 4. **Media Commentary and Public Interest**: - Analysts and commentators, including Paul Finebaum, have suggested that Rhule has actively pursued the Penn State position, indicating a strong interest in the role [https://www.sportskeeda.com/college-football/news-paul-finebaum-drops-bombshell-matt-rhule-s-penn-state-interest-he-everything-beg-kraft-hire-him]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Coaching Records**: - James Franklin's tenure at Penn State ended with a record of 104-45, including multiple top-10 finishes and a College Football Playoff appearance [https://www.yardbarker.com/college_football/articles/penn_state_could_target_two_high_profile_coaches_to_replace_james_franklin/s1_127_42889702]. - Rhule's current record at Nebraska stands at 5-1, showcasing his ability to turn around a struggling program [https://www.huskercorner.com/matt-rhule-nebraska-football-penn-state-coaching-rumors]. - **Public Sentiment**: - Fans and experts are actively discussing potential candidates for the Penn State job, with Rhule frequently mentioned as a top choice due to his past and current success [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/penn-state-head-coach-candidates-191635021.html]. ### Conclusion: The Future of Matt Rhule and Penn State Football - **Key Takeaways**: 1. **Rhule is a Strong Candidate**: His connection to Penn State and current success at Nebraska make him a prime candidate for the head coaching position. 2. **Immediate Speculation**: The firing of James Franklin has led to a flurry of speculation regarding Rhule's potential move, with significant media attention on the topic. 3. **Public and Expert Support**: There is considerable support from fans and analysts for Rhule to take over at Penn State, indicating a favorable reception should he pursue the role. In summary, the combination of Rhule's successful track record, his ties to Penn State, and the current coaching vacancy creates a compelling narrative around his potential transition to the Nittany Lions [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6711353/2025/10/12/james-franklin-penn-state-candidates-curt-cignetti-matt-rhule].