The last time Penn State made a coaching change, it turned to Vanderbilt for its next leader. A new national projection suggests the Nittany Lions could follow a similar path as they prepare to replace James Franklin.
According to new projections by CBS Sports this week, Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea was an “ideal candidate” for the Penn State vacancy. His adaptability and analytical approach in an era defined by roster churn and transfer portal volatility is a major selling point.
“Lea has shown a rare ability to diagnose shortcomings within his program and address them head-on,” the projection notes, adding that his capacity to evolve “represents exactly the traits required to build and sustain success in modern college football.”
Lea’s rise has become a national storyline. A Nashville native, former Commodores walk-on and first-time head coach at his alma mater, he inherited one of the SEC’s most troubled programs. But behind improved recruiting, roster development and the arrival of quarterback Diego Pavia, he has overseen one of the sport’s most dramatic turnarounds.
Vanderbilt went 7-6 in 2024, along with a stunning upset of No. 1 Alabama. They followed up with an 8-2 record so far this season. The Commodores are ranked No. 14, their highest position since 2010, and remain in pursuit of the program’s first 10-win season in more than seven decades.
Losing another rising coach would be a significant setback for Vanderbilt, which is starting to invest heavily in athletics. But with Penn State expected to cast a wide net, Lea’s name is unlikely to fade from the conversation.
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