Penn State’s James Franklin is a top contender to become the first Black coach to win a college football national title, with the Nittany Lions set to face off against No. 1 Oregon in the Big Ten championship game.
Franklin, 52, has been struggling to break into the elite tier of college football, despite his experience and talent. His record against top-ranked opponents is a dismal 1-13, making him a “Mid Game James” figure among fans.
However, Franklin sees an opportunity for redemption in Saturday’s matchup against Oregon. The Nittany Lions are ranked behind Penn State and Notre Dame, two other schools with Black coaches on the rise.
Franklin’s background as a black man from a mixed-race family has given him a unique perspective that he believes helps him relate to players and fans from different backgrounds. Despite his personal success, Franklin is focused on the week-to-week pressure of college football, rather than hypothetical championships.
A win against Oregon would not only reverse Franklin’s poor record against top opponents but also make history as the first Black coach to win a national title. With Penn State’s regular season coming to an end and the playoffs expanded to 12 teams this year, Franklin has a chance to turn his career around and achieve one of the last “firsts” in sports.
The game will be a significant test for Franklin, who faces a No. 1 Oregon Ducks team that is ranked right behind Penn State and Notre Dame. But with his experience and determination, he may just have what it takes to overcome the odds and make history.
Source: https://andscape.com/features/james-franklin-can-make-history-at-penn-state