Matt Campbell takes charge at Penn State with high expectations

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 10, 2026, 3:55 PM

Last updated Aug 10, 2026

Matt Campbell takes charge at Penn State with high expectations
Summary

Matt Campbell begins his tenure as Penn State head coach amid high expectations, inheriting a program with a demanding performance history. Campbell was hired following James Franklin's successful yet underwhelming run, where he led the team to a 104-45 record but struggled against top rivals. Penn State's 2026 schedule appears favorable, lacking marquee matchups with Ohio State and Oregon while still featuring challenging contests against USC, Michigan, and Washington. This year, Campbell has significantly reshaped the roster, signing 40 players from the transfer portal. His previous success at Iowa State and Toledo positions him as a pivotal figure in transforming Penn State's trajectory.

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By the Numbers
  • Campbell replaces James Franklin, who had a 104-45 record.
  • Penn State's 2026 schedule omits Ohio State and Oregon.
  • Campbell signed 40 transfer players, rebuilding the roster.
  • He led Iowa State to seven bowl appearances in ten seasons.
  • Penn State's strength of schedule is considered manageable this year.
Latest Updates
  • 3:55 PMYahoo SportsPenn State’s Matt Campbell is playing with house money
What they're saying
"

He was hired because he’s good. Now he has to do it in a pretty demanding environment Penn State was previewed by Arnav the other day. I’m saying that Matt Campbell is playing with house money. That’s $70.5 million of house money. His predecessor in Happy Valley, James Franklin, was/is a good coach. But when […]

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