James Franklin Playoff record: Penn State coach's top game, stats, achievements and more explored

James Franklin has been coaching the Penn State Nittany Lions since 2014, after a successful stint in the NFL as a coordinator and as head coach of the Vanderbilt Commodores.

Under his leadership, the Nittany Lions have compiled a 100-41 record and made their first college football playoffs appearance in 2024. They decisively defeated the 11-3 SMU Mustangs to secure a spot in the second round.

As we count down to the second round of the 2024-25 playoffs, let's examine Franklin's postseason record.

James Franklin's Playoff record

Top game

Penn State 38, SMU 10

James Franklin entered the game with 99 wins as Penn State's head coach, poised to reach the milestone of 100 wins. While such pressure might have caused others to falter, Franklin remained composed heading into the matchup.

His confidence was rewarded as his players delivered a dominant performance, securing a blowout victory over the SMU Mustangs. This game marked Franklin's first playoff appearance as a college football head coach, and his team ensured it was a memorable one.

The running backs led the charge in a game where starting quarterback Drew Allar took a backseat. Nicholas Singleton carried the ball 14 times for 90 rushing yards and one touchdown, while his backfield partner, Kaytron Allen, added 11 carries for 70 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

On defense, Dominic DeLuca and Tony Rojas shined with two and one interceptions, respectively. Both players returned an interception for a touchdown, showcasing the Nittany Lions' exceptional defensive play. Up next, the team faces Ashton Jeanty and the Boise State Broncos in the second round of the expanded college football playoffs.

Playoff Stats

James Franklin has 100 wins as the head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, but only one of those victories has come in the playoffs. This shows how competitive the collegiate football landscape is, especially during the era of the four-team playoff.

Franklin is 1-0 in playoff games, with his sole victory coming against the SMU Mustangs. Nittany Lions fans are hopeful that they can secure another win when they face the Boise State Broncos on Dec. 31, 2024.

Achievements

James Franklin started coaching with Kutztown University in Pennsylvania as the team's wide receivers coach. He has since risen to lead the Penn State Nittany Lions, a collegiate football powerhouse.

Franklin's achievements include one Big Ten Championship and a 2016 Big Ten East Division title. Individually, he was honored with the Sporting News Coach of the Year Award, the Woody Hayes Trophy and the Hayes–Schembechler Coach of the Year Award in 2016.