James Franklin stepped into Beaver Stadium this week with excitement buzzing through every conversation. The Penn State head coach sees major upgrades on the horizon, and he’s not shy about what they could mean for his team’s future in an increasingly competitive Big Ten landscape.
How Will Franklin’s Vision Transform Beaver Stadium’s Game Day Experience?
Penn State head coach James Franklin is embracing sweeping changes to Beaver Stadium, describing them as both necessary and exciting as the Big Ten competition intensifies. Speaking to reporters after practice Wednesday in State College, Franklin credited university leaders for their strategic approach to the massive project.
“I think that’s awesome. I think that’s a huge opportunity for us,” he said. “I think Pat and Vinnie have done a phenomenal job… you’re going to see a ton of upgrades this year and then obviously next year is going to be crazy.”
Franklin explained that the improvements are specifically designed to enhance the stadium’s atmosphere and functionality, with crowd noise being a major focus.
“There’s been a ton of hard work and really good ideas about how to maximize that stadium and how to make it as loud as possible,” he said. “It’s always been a great venue. I think it’s only going to get better.”
The upgrades address both fan experience and competitive advantages. Part of the discussion included a potential shift in where coaches are positioned on game day, with Franklin noting the change serves dual purposes.
“It’s a little bit of both… it’s not going to matter anymore because we’re going to have a really nice press box on either side,” he said.
Franklin couldn’t resist taking a lighthearted jab at the current press setup, joking about the facilities that have served the program for years.
“I know you guys have loved that naval ship that looks about to fall off the side of the stadium for all those years.”
Beyond the logistics and aesthetics, Franklin acknowledged that improved sideline positioning could address competitive integrity concerns, noting it might “maybe stop some people from stealing signals.”
What Roster Moves Is Franklin Making Ahead of the 2024-25 Season?
While discussing facility improvements, Franklin also provided updates on key roster decisions that will shape the team’s upcoming campaign.
Regarding defensive player Zuriah Fisher, Franklin expressed confidence in the veteran’s role moving forward.
“He is a veteran guy. He’s physical against the run, he’s productive against the pass… we expect him to be across from Dani (Denis-Sutton) and having a big year for us.”
Franklin highlighted the development of younger players throughout the program, indicating that fresh faces will contribute immediately.
He noted that “a couple of them will end up playing this year” and specifically mentioned that Koby Howard has “gotten a lot of buzz early on.”
At the running back position, Franklin indicated the coaching staff has clarity about their depth chart while emphasizing development opportunities for emerging players.
On the running back situation, Franklin said the staff knows “who Nick (Singleton) and Fat (Kaytron Allen) are,” and are focusing on getting younger players more reps by reducing veteran workloads.
Franklin also provided an encouraging update on Cam Wallace, who is working his way back from a season ending injury. The coach’s optimism about the Wallace’s recovery was evident in his assessment.
“I see him getting more and more confident every single day… he’s handled it all really well.”
Franklin’s comments demonstrated the program’s dual focus: maintaining competitive excellence on the field while positioning Penn State for long-term success through strategic facility investments. The stadium upgrades represent more than cosmetic improvements, they’re part of a broader strategy to keep pace with Big Ten rivals and create every possible advantage for the Nittany Lions.
