New details emerge in Penn State's coaching search with a Big 12 frontrunner

Jeff Hauser

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New details emerge in Penn State's coaching search with a Big 12 frontrunner image

Penn State has landed on Iowa State coach Matt Campbell as its top choice to lead the program, according to a report by Yahoo Sports' Ross Dellenger. 

The Nittany Lions are working to finalize a deal with Campbell, who has quietly emerged as the preferred candidate after a lenghty search that followed the midseason firing of James Franklin.

Campbell has compiled a 107-70 record as a head coach, including a 72-55 mark across nine seasons at Iowa State.

He previously led Toledo from 2012-15, winning the 2015 MAC Coach of the Year award and capturing back-to-back division titles before jumping to Ames. With the Cyclones, Campbell developed a long-struggling program into a consistent contender. He delivered eight bowl appearances in nine years, with only a 4-8 setback in 2021. 

If hired, Campbell would replace interim coach Terry Smith, who guided Penn State through the final stretch of the season after Franklin was dismissed following a 3-3 start. Franklin has since accepted the head coaching job at Virginia Tech.

Campbell would inherit a roster in flux and a recruiting class decimated by the coaching uncertainty. Penn State signed just two recruits during the early period. Campbell has assembled the No. 50 class for 2026, and some commitments could follow him to Happy Valley. The transfer portal period is fast approaching as well. 

Penn State finished 6-6 and awaits its bowl destination later this month. A stark turnaround with Smith on the way out. 

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Editorial Team