The Penn State football coaching search is on, with James Franklin's departure leaving a significant void. The university is seeking a new leader to guide the team, and several potential candidates have emerged. Among the front-runners are Curt Cignetti and Matt Rhule, both with strong local ties and impressive coaching records.
Cignetti, a 64-year-old Pittsburgh native, has been making waves at Indiana University. He brought a winning mindset to Bloomington, leading the Hoosiers to a remarkable 17-2 record in his second season. His team's performance against Oregon, with six sacks and 30 points scored, showcases his ability to elevate a program. However, Cignetti's potential departure would come with a substantial $13 million buyout.
Rhule, a 50-year-old former Nittany Lions linebacker, has a strong connection with Penn State. He led Temple's Owls to consecutive 10-win seasons and a notable victory over Penn State in 2015. Rhule's work at Baylor in a challenging situation also deserves recognition. His ties to Happy Valley and the potential to return to his alma mater make him a compelling candidate.
If Penn State cannot secure either of these top candidates, the search may turn to other options. Manny Diaz, Duke's head coach, impressed the Penn State program during his tenure as Franklin's defensive coordinator. Diaz's success at Miami and Duke, along with his defensive expertise, makes him a viable candidate. Additionally, Clark Lea from Vanderbilt and Matt Campbell from Iowa State are considered strong contenders, each bringing their own unique strengths and achievements to the table.
