Penn State fans already started chanting to fire James Franklin during the fourth quarter of the White Out inside Beaver Stadium. Now, after the worst loss of his career, it begs the question: How much would it cost to fire the 12th-year head coach 

Penn State Fans Already Chanting ‘Fire James Franklin’ During White Out Game — What’s the Cost of Letting Him Go?

Penn State’s iconic Beaver Stadium was electric last Saturday, packed for the annual White Out game — one of college football’s most anticipated atmospheres. But what should have been a night of spirited celebration quickly turned sour. As the Nittany Lions struggled on the field and fell deeper into a devastating defeat, an ominous chant echoed throughout the stands: “Fire James Franklin!” The fans’ frustration boiled over during the fourth quarter, a stark sign that patience is wearing thin for the 12th-year head coach.

James Franklin arrived at Penn State in 2014 with high expectations and a history of turning programs around. He inherited a team seeking to reclaim national prominence and initially delivered strong results, including multiple bowl appearances and high-ranking finishes in the Big Ten. However, recent seasons have seen inconsistency, missed opportunities, and a decline in on-field performance that has fans questioning the future of his tenure.

This latest loss — arguably the worst of Franklin’s entire career — has reignited a growing chorus calling for change. Penn State’s fan base, known for their passion and loyalty, clearly expressed their dissatisfaction, chanting for the coach’s dismissal before the game even ended. The phrase “Fire James Franklin” is now more than just a frustration; it’s a rallying cry symbolizing deeper concerns about the program’s direction.

The critical question now on everyone’s mind: How much would it cost Penn State to part ways with their veteran coach?

James Franklin is under a lucrative contract, reportedly worth upwards of $6 million annually, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football. Like many contracts in big-time college football, Franklin’s deal likely includes a hefty buyout clause. Early reports estimate the buyout figure to be in the range of $20 to $30 million, depending on the timing and specific terms.

Such a buyout would be a significant financial hit for the university, particularly at a time when athletic programs are navigating budgetary pressures amid fluctuating revenue streams. The cost isn’t just about dollars, though — it’s also about timing. Firing a coach mid-season or immediately after a marquee loss can disrupt recruiting, damage team morale, and complicate the search for a qualified replacement.

Still, Penn State’s administration and boosters are left weighing the long-term consequences of sticking with Franklin versus starting fresh. The program has enjoyed sustained success over the past decade, but recent struggles threaten to erode fan support and recruiting momentum. For many, the prospect of paying a substantial buyout is outweighed by the need to reinvigorate the team and reestablish Penn State as a national contender.

If the university decides to move on, they will face the challenging task of finding a coach who can rebuild confidence, attract top talent, and deliver wins consistently. But that’s precisely what frustrated fans are demanding — a bold change to stop the slide.

James Franklin’s legacy at Penn State is now at a crossroads. The chants inside Beaver Stadium reflect more than just a poor performance on one night; they reveal a fan base hungry for accountability and results. Whether Penn State is willing to pay the price — financially and organizationally — to part ways with a 12-year coach remains the defining question as the season unfolds.

For now, the echoes of “Fire James Franklin” will linger in the stadium and across social media, a potent reminder that in college football, the clock is always ticking — and success is never guaranteed.