Rising college football coach 'in a really good position' to replace James Franklin at Penn State

ESPN analyst Greg McElroy has suggested that Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea is a strong candidate for the head coaching position at Penn State. Lea, who has significantly improved Vanderbilt's football program, leading them to a 9-2 record this season, is noted for his defensive expertise. He previously served as the defensive coordinator at Notre Dame before joining Vanderbilt in 2020.

Penn State is in search of a new head coach following their separation from James Franklin. Initially interested in Nebraska's Matt Rhule, Penn State's focus has shifted to other rising coaches, including Missouri's Eli Drinkwitz, Alabama's Kalen DeBoer, Georgia Tech's Brent Key, and James Madison's Bob Chesney.

If Lea moves to Penn State, it would contribute to a busy coaching carousel in the SEC, where schools like Florida, LSU, Arkansas, and possibly Ole Miss are also seeking new head coaches. Lea's potential departure could prompt further shifts within the conference.