Penn State as a program is both very much in the present but has one foot in the past with its approach. It is what makes [autotag]James Franklin[/autotag] perfect for the school and town as a whole. He has shown an ability to adapt but he also has shown that he would like to keep some of the older traditions, especially surrounding the NIL deals players can receive.
On Wednesday, Franklin was on the Late Kick Live Show with Josh Pate and he discussed the new challenges he faces as a college coach.
“In this role, you are doing so many things other than football, there are a few places across the country you don’t have to, but most places as a coach you taking on so many things…you’re responsible for these kids 24 hours a day. That didn’t use to be the case.”
Franklin went on to explain his stance by stating “There are so many things that are out of your control that can really impact the job that you are doing and how you’re able to compete on Saturdays and that is where the frustration comes.”
To his point, the NIL game has changed so many aspects of college football for the better but it does create some unique issues. We have seen programs and boosters put together packages for players that emerge on lesser teams that lure them away for bigger and better things.
What is important to remember though is in the game of football, nothing is guaranteed for these kids. There is no NFL guarantee and even if they make it to the league the average career lasts three years. Franklin has done well to have no issues on his team, his well-rounded staff helps, but that doesn’t make the stress any less on a head coach at a major program.
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