Terry Smith Takes the Helm: Penn State Names Longtime Assistant as Interim Head Coach After James Franklin’s Departure
In a surprising shake-up for one of college football’s most consistent programs, Penn State has officially announced Terry Smith as the interim head coach of the Nittany Lions following the sudden departure of James Franklin. The move, confirmed late Sunday evening, marks a pivotal moment in the program’s ongoing quest to remain among the elite in the Big Ten and the national picture.
Smith, who has served on Penn State’s coaching staff since 2014, is no stranger to the program’s culture and expectations. A former Nittany Lion himself, Smith has worn multiple hats under Franklin — most notably as the team’s associate head coach, cornerbacks coach, and one of the most respected recruiters in the nation. His promotion is being seen as both a stabilizing and symbolic choice, ensuring continuity while the administration begins its search for a permanent replacement.
“Penn State football has always been about family, discipline, and tradition,” Smith said in a brief statement. “I’m honored to lead this group of young men and continue the standard we’ve built together. This program means everything to me — and we’ll keep fighting for greatness every single day.”
The decision comes amid growing speculation that Franklin, who had led the team since 2014, is leaving for another high-profile coaching opportunity. While details remain limited, multiple reports suggest that his next move could involve a return to the SEC or a major NFL role — both long-rumored possibilities given his proven track record of rebuilding and sustaining winning programs.
Under Franklin’s leadership, Penn State enjoyed some of its most successful years since the Joe Paterno era — including a Big Ten Championship in 2016, several New Year’s Six bowl appearances, and consistent Top 15 recruiting classes. Yet in recent seasons, the pressure had been mounting as the Lions struggled to overtake Ohio State and Michigan in the conference hierarchy.
Smith’s appointment is widely viewed as a move to maintain locker room unity and recruiting stability during the transition. Known for his deep ties to Pennsylvania high school football and his ability to connect with players and families, Smith has long been considered one of the most influential figures behind Penn State’s recruiting success. His leadership style — direct, disciplined, and personal — could provide exactly the steadiness the team needs as it heads toward bowl season.
“Terry has been the heart and voice of this program behind the scenes,” said one current player. “He’s the guy who checks in on you when no one else does. Everyone respects him. We’ll go to war for him.”
Penn State athletic director Pat Kraft praised Smith’s leadership qualities in a press release, emphasizing his “unwavering commitment to the university, its student-athletes, and the values that define Penn State football.” Kraft added that the search for a permanent head coach would begin immediately, though no timetable has been set.
For now, the focus turns to how Smith and the Nittany Lions respond on the field. With crucial matchups still ahead and national perception at stake, this moment could define not only the rest of Penn State’s season but also Smith’s potential candidacy for the full-time role.
If there’s one thing Penn State fans know, it’s that Terry Smith bleeds blue and white. And as the program steps into a new era, that passion might be exactly what keeps the nittany Lions roaring
