Penn State Football: 3 hot takes from Nittany Lions win over Wisconsin

Sep 4, 2021; Madison, WI, USA; Penn State defensive back Marquis Wilson (8) and offensive lineman Landon Tengwall (58) celebrate after defeating Wisconsin Saturday, September 4, 2021 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wis. Penn State beat Wisconsin 16-10. Mandatory Credit: Mark Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports /

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Franklin proves last season was a fluke

James Franklin has gotten plenty of criticism during his tenure as Penn State football coach, but as he proved again Saturday, he’s one of the Big Ten’s best head coaches.

He also proved that last season’s struggles were just a fluke. Prior to that, Penn State won nine games in four straight seasons, while reaching 11 wins three times in four years.

Franklin has led Penn State to three top-10 finishes in the AP poll, as well as a Big Ten championship and a Rose Bowl berth all since 2016.

Last season’s 0-5 start was ugly but following the massive win Saturday at Wisconsin, Franklin proved that it’s not the norm.

Frankly, Penn State looks football poised for another 11-win season, and the Nittany Lions should be able to give Ohio State a run for its money.

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At this point, they seem like the No. 1 contender. Either way, Franklin has calmed the situation in Happy Valley and with a loaded recruiting class in 2022, Penn State football is in good hands.

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