Penn State’s coaching carousel is spinning faster than ever, and the latest name at the center of the storm is Iowa State’s Matt Campbell. Since James Franklin’s departure in October, the Nittany Lions have been on a rollercoaster search for his successor, and now, sources tell The Athletic, Campbell is emerging as the top target. But here’s where it gets controversial: after striking out with several high-profile candidates, including BYU’s Kalani Sitake and Louisville’s Jeff Brohm—both of whom chose to stay put—Penn State is pinning its hopes on a coach who has already turned down NFL interest and was a finalist for the USC job. Is Campbell the right fit, or is Penn State grasping at straws? And this is the part most people miss: Campbell’s decade-long tenure at Iowa State has been nothing short of transformative, with a 72-55 record, two Big 12 Championship Game appearances, and a school-record 11 wins in 2024. His roots in Ohio and experience at Toledo also align with Penn State’s Midwest appeal. But will he leave Ames for Happy Valley? Or is this just another chapter in Penn State’s coaching saga? Bold prediction: If Campbell says no, expect the focus to shift to names like Brian Daboll, Matt Patricia, or even interim coach Terry Smith, who has rallied support from players past and present. What do you think—is Campbell the answer, or should Penn State look elsewhere? Let’s debate in the comments!
