what happened to penn state football

Penn State football has encountered significant struggles in the 2025 season. Despite high preseason expectations and investments, including making Jim Knowles the highest-paid defensive coordinator in the nation, the team has suffered disappointing losses, most notably an embarrassing 42-37 upset loss to previously winless UCLA at the Rose Bowl. This loss was the biggest upset of the college football season and has severely hurt Penn State's chances for the College Football Playoff. The team holds a 3-2 record and faces tough upcoming games at Ohio State and against Indiana, with national championship hopes looking bleak. Head coach James Franklin, who has had some success in his tenure but a poor record against major opponents like Ohio State, is under growing scrutiny as fans and the program question the future direction. Despite strong resources and personnel, Penn State's defense faltered and the team made critical mistakes during the UCLA game, raising concerns about consistency and the program's ability to compete at the highest level. Overall, Penn State football is experiencing a disappointing season marked by unexpected losses and rising frustration, diminishing their chances for major postseason success in 2025.