Franklin stresses importance of handling expectations

USA Today

3 days ago

Franklin says blocking out outside noise is the difference between consistency and collapse
James Franklin doesn't want to hear the noise and he's making sure his players feel the same way.
At Big Ten Media Day, Franklin was asked about the expectations surrounding Penn State after last season's breakthrough to the Big Ten Championship Game. He didn't flinch. In fact, he leaned into the idea that success brings more pressure, more attention, and way more distractions.
But that's not something Franklin fears, it's something he plans for. He's made it a huge focus heading into the 2025 season.
One thing Franklin emphasized repeatedly is the importance of consistency. Not just on game day, but every single day. That means being locked in, whether it's a walk-through in July or a must-win game in November. He said the teams that fail aren't necessarily less talented — they're the ones that start listening to the hype, scrolling through the praise, and losing the edge that got them there in the first place.
Penn State is going to be talked about a lot this fall. That's what happens when you return a senior quarterback, bring in a respected new offensive coordinator, and carry real momentum from the previous season. But Franklin said his job is to remind everyone in the building that none of that matters if they don't show up every day ready to work.
He's been in this spot before. Penn State has had talent and preseason buzz before, but it hasn't always translated to a playoff push. Franklin clearly wants this year to be different, and he's counting on the maturity of the roster to handle that spotlight without losing focus.
A big part of that message is about blocking out the outside world. Franklin talked about controlling the controllables — showing up early, studying film, practicing with intent, and ignoring what fans or media are saying. He said when you're chasing a championship, you don't need to prove people wrong — you need to prove yourself right, over and over again.
He even mentioned that leadership plays a huge role here. Veterans on the team have to be the ones reminding everyone that nothing is given. Franklin said the minute a team starts reading their own headlines is the minute things start slipping. That's not the standard in State College this year.
This is a team with real expectations and real pressure. But if Franklin has his way, they won't be listening to any of it.