Everybody has seemed to write off Penn State as a threat in the B1G and for good reason. They’re winless in the conference, they just fired their head coach, their QB is out for the season and it seems that even their own administration has even written them off as they begin their search for a new coach.

However, there is one thing a lot of people are overlooking. Talent. Penn State has loads of it and now the proverbial chains are off. They are no longer weighed down by the high expectations of winning a title. They also don’t have to worry about playing for their head coach’s job. However, they still should be motivated to perform well because many of them skipped the NFL draft to come back for this season. These players certainly don’t want to see their draft stocks buried because they gave up on their seasons.

Perhaps the coaching staff felt micromanaged by their former head coach and now they can continue to implement their game plans without interference. Maybe their backup QB is an accurate passer who makes good decisions, but lacked the prototypical size and arm strength to start.

Whatever happened, they weren’t responding positively to Franklin’s leadership. I’m quite sure the interim coach has told them that they’re capable of playing like a contender and it’s time to show it. They still have, Iowa, Ohio State and Indiana left on their schedule. If I’m Terry Smith my message is simple. Try to ruin every opponent’s chance at the playoffs for the remainder of the season.

https://www.ydr.com/story/sports/college/penn-state/football/2025/10/16/how-penn-state-football-can-recover-without-james-franklin-at-iowa/86610310007/

Doctor, Doctor, Mr. MD. Great question. My answer: How about NO!

But with a game at Ohio State followed by a home game versus Indiana, the Nits will have a chance to do so. PSU could also derail Nebraska's PO hopes when it plays the Cornhuskers in Lincoln.