who is penn state's new football coach

Penn State's New Football Coach Matt Campbell, previously the head coach at Iowa State, is Penn State's new permanent football head coach. He agreed to an eight-year deal in early December 2025, following James Franklin's firing on October 12, 2025, and a national search led by athletics director Pat Kraft. Campbell's hiring came after pivoting from BYU's Kalani Sitake, who stayed with his program.

Background on Matt Campbell Campbell built an impressive legacy at Iowa State over 10 seasons, becoming the program's winningest coach with eight winning seasons, two Big 12 championship game appearances, and a 2020 Fiesta Bowl victory—the school's first top-10 finish. A three-time Big 12 Coach of the Year, he met Penn State officials and finalized terms quickly, with board approval on December 8, 2025. In his emotional introduction, Campbell called the role a "dream come true," fighting back tears while expressing gratitude.

Timeline of the Coaching Change

• October 11-12, 2025 : James Franklin fired after three straight losses; Terry Smith, associate head coach and cornerbacks coach, named interim head coach for the season's remainder.

• October-November 2025 : National search begins amid fan discussions and speculation, including live call-ins debating candidates.

• Early December 2025 : Focus shifts to Campbell after Sitake's extension; deal agreed upon December 5.

• December 8, 2025 : Official introduction as head coach.

This shift revives a reeling program post-Drew Allar's injury and losses as heavy favorites, with Smith stabilizing interim leadership.

Why Campbell? Key Strengths Campbell excels in rebuilding programs, turning Iowa State into a contender from mediocrity through strong recruiting and culture. Penn State fans and analysts highlight his Big 12 success and scheme fit for the Nittany Lions' roster. Forums buzzed with excitement over his grit-focused style, seen in interim coach Smith's early emphasis on "toughness and swag".

"Iowa State coach Matt Campbell has agreed to an eight-year deal to become the next head coach at Penn State."

Fan and Media Reactions Trending discussions on Reddit and YouTube mix relief after Franklin's exit with optimism for Campbell's proven track record. Some speculate on staff changes and 2026 recruiting boosts, while others note the chaotic 54-day search. As of late December 2025, reactions lean positive, viewing it as a fresh start.

TL;DR
Matt Campbell from Iowa State is Penn State's new head football coach on an 8-year deal, hired December 2025 after Franklin's firing and Terry Smith's interim stint.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.