In 2015, one year later James Franklin took over at State of Pennsylvania, Saquon Barkley arrived. This marked the start of a decorated career in Happy Valley as he eventually became the second overall pick. NFL Draft.
Earlier this week, Penn State fired Franklin after three straight losses, sending shockwaves through college football. Barkley shared his reaction during a press conference Friday, and while he refused to say much about the situation, he reflected on his relationship with Franklin.
Barkley was a four-star recruit from White Room (PA) and became a two-time Big Ten Most Valuable Player at Penn State. He remembers Franklin giving him a chance at the college level, but they also shared a close bond off the field.
“For me, seeing Coach Franklin get fired really hurts,” Barkley said. “He’s the guy who gave me a chance. I know the season isn’t going the way we’d like right now, but the game before, the national championship the year before, the Big Ten championships. There was a time when Penn State wasn’t talked about the way it’s been talked about the last couple of years.
“I have nothing but respect for Coach Franklin, not just as a coach, but as a man. I don’t really use the word ‘father figure’ because my dad is in my life, but whatever the term is behind it, he’s certainly played a big role in my life and had a big influence on my life, him and his family. … Worried about the family and worried about him. Yes, he makes a lot of money, of course. But he put a lot of himself into that program there and it sucks to see. let him go.
James Franklin had an overall record of 104-45 during his time at Penn State, and the 2016 season was the first of six 11-win seasons. Saquon Barkley helped lead that charge as the Nittany Lions won the Big Ten and finished No. 7 in the nation after a Rose Bowl appearance.
Penn State has won 10 or more games each the past three years, but came closest to a national championship in 2024. The Nittany Lions advanced to the final Orange Bowl game against Notre Dame before losing on a last-second field goal. Expectations were high this year, but after a double overtime loss to Oregon at Beaver Stadium, Penn State abandoned the clashes for UCLA And Northwest before choosing to part ways with his head coach.
