Penn State receives brutal news on coaching search

Penn State interim head coach Terry Smith will lead the team in a crucial game against Rutgers, with both teams holding a 5-6 record. A victory would make Penn State bowl eligible. The Nittany Lions have momentum from recent wins over Nebraska and Michigan State, which they won by a combined 45 points.

The program's head coaching search has linked it to notable names such as former New York Giants coach Brian Daboll and Ohio State offensive coordinator Brian Hartline. However, two potential candidates, Eli Drinkwitz and Clark Lea, have recently signed contract extensions with their current teams, Mizzou and Vanderbilt, respectively, removing them from consideration.

Vanderbilt's Clark Lea, having led the team to a 9-2 record and a No. 14 ranking, extended his contract for six years, indicating confidence in his leadership and program direction. As Penn State narrows its coaching options, the possibility remains of promoting Smith, who is reportedly well-liked by the players.