TL;DR
- Stephen A. Smith questioned James Franklin's swift move to Virginia Tech after his Penn State dismissal.
- Franklin was fired by Penn State on October 12, 2025, after a mid-season performance decline.
- Smith wondered if Franklin should have waited given his $50 million buyout from Penn State.
- Despite struggles against top Big Ten teams, Smith acknowledged Franklin's coaching ability and Virginia Tech's opportunity.
Following Virginia Tech's significant move to hire former Penn State head coach James Franklin, Stephen A. Smith has already begun to provoke discussion. The news created a stir throughout the college football community, and Stephen A. Quickly raised questions about the Hokies' swift decision to appoint Franklin.
Franklin's availability stemmed from a surprisingly swift departure from Penn State. He was dismissed on October 12, 2025, merely a day following a challenging 22–21 defeat at home against Northwestern. This contest concluded a rapid mid-season downturn for a squad that had begun the year with aspirations of a national championship. Instead, Penn State faltered, experiencing consecutive home losses, squandering crucial opportunities in significant games, and broadly failing to live up to lofty expectations. Despite Franklin's consistent recruiting prowess and sustained achievements, the institution opted for a new beginning.
The dismissal stemmed from several distinct reasons, especially regarding October 12, 2025, after a close 22–21 defeat against Northwestern amidst a significant downturn in performance, Penn State opted to alter its coaching staff. The team was experiencing a mid-season decline characterized by unforeseen defeats, and it failed to live up to the lofty championship aspirations established at the beginning of a much-hyped season that rapidly unraveled. Consequently, when Virginia Tech recruited James Franklin just under a month afterward, Stephen A. Smith felt compelled to scrutinize the timing of this transition.
The internet buzzed throughout the day regarding the decision, particularly after Stephen A. Weighed in. During his appearance on First Take, he questioned whether Franklin should've held out for a different chance, primarily given that he's set to receive close to $50 million from his buyout.
“Just with what happened at Penn State,” Stephen A. Said, “you almost find yourself saying, ‘You got a $49 million buyout and Penn State stunk, could you take a year off?’ I’m just looking at that thinking, ‘Yo, could you take some time off? Could you take a breather?’”
He explicitly stated he wasn't advising Franklin against accepting the position, particularly given the unlikelihood of him securing a more significant role following the recent outcome. Therefore, Franklin seizing the chance didn't surprise him.
Stephen A. Also pointed out to fans that Franklin remained a “damn good coach,” despite his difficulties in the Big Ten's most significant games. His 3–17 record against Ohio State and Michigan was the undeniable problem. Given the substantial investments Penn State made, including NIL deals, transfer portal acquisitions, and hiring the highest-paid defensive coordinator, Stephen A. Stated the objective was straightforward: win, and Franklin failed to achieve that this season.
However, he wasn't criticizing Virginia Tech. He conceded that although the Hokies aren't a dominant force in the sport, Franklin's track record certainly warrants him another opportunity. And given the current 12-team playoff format, he comprehends why Virginia Tech feels Franklin can restore them to national prominence.
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