Penn State in position to hire frustrated SEC college football coach

Penn State University is intensifying its search for a new head football coach following the departure of James Franklin. The university had initially considered candidates from the Big Ten, but with Matt Rhule committed to Nebraska and Curt Cignetti extending his contract with Indiana, Penn State is now exploring options in the southern United States. Mike Elko of Texas A&M has emerged as a prominent candidate due to the lack of a contract extension announcement from the Aggies during their bye week.

Vanderbilt's head coach, Clark Lea, is also a potential contender for the position. Negotiations between Lea and Vanderbilt have reportedly been unproductive, with Lea's camp expressing dissatisfaction with the terms offered, citing his relatively low salary within the SEC. Lea's overall record stands at 23-35, with an 8-29 record in SEC play over five seasons. Vanderbilt, ranked No. 15, faces upcoming games against Auburn, Kentucky, and Tennessee, with a successful end to the season potentially leading to a