OkCollege football fans were abuzz after Penn State head coach James Franklin made some bold remarks about Notre Dame’s independent status ahead of their College Football Playoff matchup. Franklin didn’t hold back when discussing the inconsistencies he perceives in the current College Football Playoff (CFP) system.
During a press conference, Franklin voiced his opinion on the CFP structure, saying, “This is no knock at Marcus Freeman or Notre Dame, but I think everybody should be in a conference. I think everybody should play a conference championship game, or nobody should play a conference championship game. I think everybody should play the same number of conference games.”
Franklin’s comments come as Penn State prepares to face Notre Dame in the Capital One Orange Bowl semifinal, with the Fighting Irish being one of the last remaining independent teams in the FBS. His words have sparked a strong reaction from fans who believe that Notre Dame’s independent status gives them an unfair advantage, especially in the playoff race.
Some fans have gone so far as to suggest that the CFP should mandate conference membership as a requirement for postseason qualification. Franklin’s call for more consistency didn’t stop at conferences. He also proposed that the college football season should have a uniform length and that a commissioner should be appointed to oversee the sports.
James Franklin: “I think, again, this is no knock on Coach or Notre Dame, but I think everybody should be in a conference. I think everybody should play a conference championship game or no one should play a conference championship game. I think everybody should play the same…
— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) January 8, 2025
He’s not wrong. Why should Notre Dame be given an exemption from playing in a conference, in a conference championship game, making their own schedule, etc. Because of “tradition”? Traditions went out the college football window a LONG time ago. Join a conference, ND.
— Tim Juhas (@TimJuhas) January 8, 2025
100% agree with Franklin. Notre Dame is very good this year and I think they’d be here regardless of what conference they played in for sure, but let’s not act like there are potential major benefits for them moving forward when it comes to favorable scheduling
— Lance Taylor’s Neighbor (@LanceNeighbor) January 8, 2025
James Franklin: “I think, again, this is no knock on Coach or Notre Dame, but I think everybody should be in a conference. I think everybody should play a conference championship game or no one should play a conference championship game. I think everybody should play the same…
— Brett McMurphy (@Brett_McMurphy) January 8, 2025
Franklin has previously expressed his belief that former Alabama head coach Nick Saban would be the ideal candidate for the role of College Football Commissioner. In an interview with Saban, Franklin made his case, saying, “Coach, you can keep trying to avoid this all you want. I know ESPN and those guys don’t want to lose you, but your impact on college football and your global understanding of what we need is important. Right now, no one’s running it.”
Franklin’s straightforward takes on college football have resonated with many, as he continues to address what he believes are key issues plaguing the sport. His critique, including his stance on Notre Dame’s independence, is part of a broader conversation about how the sport should be structured going forward.
