"Our defense played lights out": Penn State HC James Franklin heaps praises on his defense following the win against SMU

James Franklin led Penn State to a 38-10 victory over SMU in Saturday's first round of the College Football Playoff. The Nittany Lions advanced to the quarterfinals and will face Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl.

Penn State surged to a commanding 28-0 lead in the first half and maintained their dominance, driven by an outstanding defensive performance. After the game, Franklin lavished praise on his defense, particularly for their exceptional effort in the first half.

“I thought our defense played lights out,” Franklin said after the game. “Obviously, when you were able to create three turnovers and two for touchdowns. Took us a little time to get going on offense. But as good of a first half of defensive football as I’ve seen.”

It was Franklin's 100th win as Penn State coach. The coach took over the helm of affairs at University Park before the 2014 season following a successful stint at Vanderbilt.

James Franklin discusses Penn State's approach to the playoffs

The expanded playoff format requires teams to play more games to claim the national championship. Teams appearing in the first round will have to play four games to have a chance at the title, while conference champions with first-round byes will play three.

James Franklin discussed his team's mindset toward the new playoff format.

“A lot of college programs are talking about, ‘It’s a four-game season.’ We didn’t approach it that way,” Franklin said. “It’s a 65-play season on average, on offense, defensive — 20 on special teams. Depending on how we handle those plays, we’ll get another opportunity."

Penn State is believed to have the easiest route in the early stages of the playoffs, which offers some advantages. However, should the Nittany Lions win against Boise State in the next round, they face a tough test in the semifinal against either Georgia or Notre Dame.