Penn State’s Playoff Breakthrough: James Franklin’s Century Mark Victory
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- William D
- December 22, 2024
More than just a significant accomplishment, James Franklin’s 100th victory at Penn State made a message. Franklin’s Nittany Lions defeated SMU 38–10 in Beaver Stadium in front of 106,000 cheering fans, earning them their first-ever College Football Playoff victory.
This victory wasn’t only about the stats; it was also about changing the perception of a coach who is frequently praised for his reliability but questioned for his capacity to perform well in crucial situations. Franklin’s position as one of Penn State’s most influential leaders was solidified when he achieved 100 victories on this platform.
The event was made more serious by the College Football Playoff backdrop. Although Franklin has established a successful program, his otherwise stellar record has always been marred by wasted chances against top opponents.
In addition to providing him with a century-mark victory, the SMU game served as the perfect opportunity to show that Penn State was prepared to play on the greatest platform in college football. The Nittany Lions, led by Franklin, were prepared to meet the challenge.
There were difficulties with this game. Franklin’s aggressive coaching style was exemplified early in the game when he tried a fourth-and-one deep in Penn State territory. Despite the gamble’s first failure, it gave the team a sense of confidence and fortitude that they maintained all evening.
Franklin transformed a dangerous call into a spark that drove his team’s strong performance and moved the tide dramatically in Penn State’s favor by having faith in his players to react under duress.
Franklin and the program thought that the victory over SMU marked a sea change. It put an end to any remaining skepticism regarding their capacity to win important games and established Penn State as a serious competitor on the national scene.
For Franklin, this triumph was about more than just reaching a milestone; it was about inspiring his team, shattering stereotypes, and establishing a new benchmark for achievement in Happy Valley.
The Game: A Real-Time Tipping Point
Early in the College Football Playoff opening against SMU, Penn State’s defense took center stage with two spectacular pick-sixes that sent Beaver Stadium exploding with excitement. The Nittany Lions’ ability to control the game’s pace and exert pressure on their opponent was demonstrated by their defensive domination.
Penn State’s defense laid the groundwork for what would turn out to be a pivotal performance in James Franklin’s career as SMU struggled to find rhythm. In addition to energizing the fans, these early turnovers gave the squad a buffer that helped them overcome early offensive setbacks.
After Franklin made a crucial fourth-down risk, SMU responded despite the defensive fireworks. Franklin made the audacious decision to keep his offense on the field when they were deep in Penn State territory and faced a fourth-and-one.
When the play was fumbled, the decision backfired, giving the Mustangs ideal field position and a chance to change the tide. Instead of shattering Penn State’s confidence, this incident served as evidence of their tenacity. Once more, the defense saved the day.
The play that would permanently change the course was delivered by linebacker Dom DeLuca. DeLuca halted the Mustangs’ attempt to capitalize on Franklin’s unsuccessful fourth-down attempt by intercepting a Kevin Jennings throw close to the goal line as SMU threatened to score and cut the distance.
The Nittany Lions’ attack, which had been sluggish for the majority of the first half, was rekindled by this crucial interception. On the subsequent drive, Drew Allar and the offense strode down the field, discovering rhythm and direction that had escaped them up until that point.
Kaytron Allen’s 25-yard touchdown run was the game-changing play that appeared to put an end to SMU’s dreams of a comeback. In addition to increasing Penn State’s advantage, Allen’s score represented the team’s capacity to build momentum and win the game.
The Nittany Lions took complete control after that and displayed the kind of all-around play that has eluded them in crucial games. In addition to being a turning point for the club, this game and its crucial moments also cemented Franklin’s reputation as a coach who can perform when it counts most.
Playoff Game One.
— Penn State Football (@PennStateFball) December 21, 2024
Playoff Game 𝐖𝐎𝐍. #WeAre x #CFBPlayoff pic.twitter.com/7D3sg4NFgN
Franklin's Forceful Methods and Guidance
During Penn State’s playoff victory over SMU, James Franklin’s aggressive play-calling mentality was evident throughout, establishing the tone for a confident and resilient performance. Franklin took chances early in the game, including a contentious fourth-and-one attempt deep in his own territory.
Franklin is known for believing that you should play “on your toes.” Despite its first failure, the play demonstrated the fearless attitude Franklin has tried to inculcate in his players. He showed his faith in his teammates’ capacity to perform well under pressure by being willing to take risks and have faith in them.
After the victory, Franklin remarked, “I told the guys we were going to call the game aggressively.” “I desired an aggressive style of play from them. Play on your toes instead of your heels. I can’t say that all week and then not do it, fourth-and-one.
His players were moved by Franklin’s dedication to this way of thinking and were motivated to emulate his confidence. Instead of depressing the players, the failed gamble served as a rallying cry, as the defense responded forcefully to stop SMU’s momentum.
The players’ and staff’s responses demonstrated the influence of Franklin’s leadership. Drew Allar, the quarterback, commended Franklin for his faith in the team, pointing out that such choices foster a culture of belief and accountability. “Coach Franklin receives a lot of unfair criticism,” Allar stated.
“When he gives us instructions to follow our process, it demonstrates his faith in our ability to carry them out.” These opinions were mirrored by offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, who emphasized that Franklin’s aggressive style fosters an atmosphere where the team feels emboldened to take charge of the match.
Booked a trip to the CFP Quarterfinal 🏜️
— Penn State Football (@PennStateFball) December 22, 2024
Ticket Info → https://t.co/M4eB0JoLv8#WeAre x #CFBPlayoff pic.twitter.com/1tzinWpHTI
James Franklin’s run to 100 victories at Penn State is evidence of his tenacity, leadership, and commitment to creating a reliable program. Since assuming leadership in 2014, Franklin has brought the Nittany Lions back to life, guiding them to several seasons with ten or more wins, a 2016 Big Ten Championship, and now their first-ever College Football Playoff triumph.
Franklin’s accomplishment of reaching the 100-win mark not only demonstrates his longevity but also his capacity to continue winning in one of college football’s most difficult conferences. This accomplishment is a significant step for Penn State in solidifying the program’s standing among the top programs in the sport.
The milestone is part of a larger story that has characterized Franklin’s tenure: doubts about success in high-profile contests mixed with consistency.
With 33 victories over the last three seasons, Franklin’s teams have been among the most successful in the country, but detractors have frequently cited their inability to defeat top-12 opponents and their difficulties against Big Ten heavyweights Ohio State and Michigan. However, this playoff victory over SMU was a major turning point, demonstrating that Penn State and Franklin can perform well under pressure.
However, this playoff victory over SMU was a major turning point, demonstrating that Penn State and Franklin can perform well under pressure.
Franklin’s 100 victories highlight the success and stability he has brought to Happy Valley in spite of the continuous criticism. Franklin has demonstrated a level of consistency that few coaches in the modern era have been able to match when navigating the demands of elite college football.
Year after year, Penn State has remained in the national spotlight thanks to his ability to attract elite talent, develop players, and cultivate a competitive culture. Its significance is significantly increased by the fact that Franklin accomplished this milestone during the College Football Playoff, demonstrating his capacity for leadership under duress.
Franklin’s 100th victory is a time for Penn State supporters and the program to celebrate accomplishments while anticipating bigger goals. The victory versus SMU was more than simply a statistic; it was a declaration of the program’s course under
Franklin’s 100th win is a testament to his achievements and a springboard for even bigger success as Penn State gets ready for the Fiesta Bowl and pursues a national title.
Drew Allar’s leadership, tenacity, and capacity to step up were demonstrated during Penn State’s playoff victory over SMU. Allar’s stat line of 127 passing yards, 70 rushing yards, and two rushing touchdowns may not seem impressive, but what really made the difference was his poise and judgment in crucial situations.
Allar led the team to important scores and maintained a consistent presence under center in a game where the Nittany Lions’ offense struggled to settle into a rhythm. He set the tone for a strong team performance with his leadership both on and off the field.
Allar always placed more emphasis on carrying out the team’s strategy and having faith in the process than on stifling criticism. After the game, Allar stated, “We don’t take these moments for granted, but I don’t care what anybody says from the outside.” “Many people in the world are unaware of what goes on behind the scenes.”
He demonstrated maturity beyond his years by being able to tune out outside distractions and concentrate on what he and the team could manage. Allar gave his teammates confidence by his words and deeds, which enabled them to face hardship head-on.
Early in the game, especially following a botched fourth-and-one effort deep in Penn State territory, that resolve was put to the test. The defense stepped up to deliver a crucial interception by Dom DeLuca, but the squad refused to crumble under the pressure.
Allar led a crucial drive that was culminated by a touchdown from Kaytron Allen, sparking the offense. The group’s reaction to this challenge demonstrated its capacity to remain together and gain momentum when it was most needed.
A Penn State team that refused to be characterized by historical narratives or outside uncertainties was exemplified by Drew Allar’s leadership. In addition to winning the game, the Nittany Lions showed the fortitude and composure required to succeed on the largest stage in college football.
Under Allar’s leadership, Penn State demonstrated that they could overcome obstacles and perform when it mattered, exhibiting the perseverance and confidence that their coach and quarterback had instilled in them. In addition to guaranteeing a spot in the Fiesta Bowl, this performance strengthened the team’s confidence in its capacity for even bigger success.
Penn State will now focus on the Fiesta Bowl, where they will take on a strong Boise State squad, following their decisive playoff victory against SMU. James Franklin and the Nittany Lions have another chance to establish themselves as one of college football’s top teams in this game.
Penn State is confident following their first-ever College Football Playoff triumph, but Boise State, who are renowned for their disciplined play and big-game record, will be a difficult challenge. The Fiesta Bowl is an opportunity for Penn State to further establish its history under Franklin, not simply another game.
As the squad gets ready for what Franklin refers to as a “one-game season,” it will be crucial to keep up momentum and focus. Throughout the playoff run, the club has benefited greatly from the coach’s emphasis on taking each game as it comes. Franklin stated, “How you prepare and value those reps will give you an opportunity to play again.”
The Nittany Lions have been able to address every problem with clarity and resolve because of this mentality, which has kept them grounded. As Penn State attempts to prolong its season and continue demonstrating its preparedness for college football’s grandest stage, the Fiesta Bowl is no exception.
Additionally, the game against Boise State serves as a test for the program’s more general goals. Although Penn State’s 12-win season is undoubtedly a noteworthy accomplishment, winning a national championship is always the ultimate objective.
In order to accomplish that, the squad needs to show that they are reliable and capable of winning against strong opponents under duress. The Nittany Lions’ status as one of the finest in the country would be further confirmed by a Fiesta Bowl victory, which would also pave the way for even more success in the upcoming seasons.
The path forward is obvious for Franklin, Drew Allar, and the rest of the team: concentrate on the current task, take advantage of the opportunity, and continue to work toward the end goal.
The Fiesta Bowl serves as a springboard to a national championship and is more than just another game. Penn State is prepared to take on Boise State and keep blazing their trail to glory because they have momentum on their side and a fresh sense of purpose.