Penn State’s search for a new head football coach has stretched to day 50 as December arrives, with athletic director Pat Kraft still weighing candidates after parting ways with James Franklin on October 12. Interim head coach Terry Smith has steered the Nittany Lions to a 3-3 record since taking over about six weeks ago, and although he has thrown his hat into the ring for the permanent job, expectations are that he’s not the frontrunner.
Reflecting on the interim stint, Smith explained after the Rutgers win Saturday night that the experience taught him a great deal. He emphasized that it proved he can handle the role, underscored the importance of patience, highlighted the enormity of leading one of college football’s premier programs, and reinforced the strong bonds he has formed with players. He described himself as a trustee figure who grants trust upfront, believing trust is earned in return. That dynamic, he said, fuels the mutual respect and discipline within the team, including candid corrective moments with players like Zion Tracy. Smith praised the players’ effort and called the season a meaningful experience.
With a potential coaching change likely to occur after the Class of 2026 recruiting cycle begins on National Signing Day, the timeline now concentrates on securing a decision ahead of the January 2 transfer portal opening.
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“That’s the expectation for QB1,” Smith stated when discussing Ethan Grunkemeyer. “The quarterback must elevate the entire team because, just like in college and professional football, championships hinge on that leader. Our future looks bright, and this young man is accumulating valuable experience and growing every day right before our eyes.”
PSU interim head coach Terry Smith on QB Ethan Grunkemeyer
