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Max Olson
Penn State’s head coaching search is now centered on Iowa State’s coach Matt Campbell, as reported by sources to ESPN.
The Nittany Lions are in talks with Campbell regarding their head coaching position after reaching out to him on Wednesday. Both parties are in the preliminary stages, and any appointment at Penn State will require further procedures and board approval.
Following BYU’s coach Kalani Sitake’s decision to stay with the Cougars and sign a long-term deal on Tuesday, Penn State has redirected its focus to other potential candidates.
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Sources informed ESPN that Penn State had also been in contact with at least three other candidates in recent days.
Hiring Campbell, who holds the record for the most victories in Iowa State history, would conclude a search that has lasted over 50 days since Penn State parted ways with longtime coach James Franklin on October 12.
A three-time Big 12 Coach of the Year, Campbell accomplished significant improvements and steady success during his ten years in Ames, marked by eight winning seasons, two Big 12 championship game appearances, and a Fiesta Bowl win over Oregon in 2020, securing the school’s first top-10 finish.
Throughout his tenure, Campbell achieved 72 wins, finishing this season with an 8-4 record.
The revelation of Campbell’s prominence in Penn State’s coaching pursuit was initially shared by On3.com.
Contributions to this report were made by ESPN’s Pete Thamel and Adam Rittenberg.
