Penn State Nittany Lions Football Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Penn States new head football coach, Matt Campbell, brings on familiar face Terry Smith as his assistant. The two have a long-standing respect for each other, with Campbell often recruiting Smiths players at Toledo. Smith, who has been with Penn State since 2012, led the team to a three-game winning streak as interim head coach. Players and fans advocated for his promotion, and he was recently given a four-year deal. Campbell expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with Smith, recognizing him as a cornerstone of the program.

Matt Campbell, Penn States new head football coach, shares his vision for the Nittany Lions, emphasizing his commitment to winning in the Big Ten without compromising his values. Despite initial negative sentiments surrounding Penn States coaching search, Campbell remained focused on his role at Iowa State. After a five-day evaluation process, he decided to join Penn State, leaving behind a challenging decision and a successful formula for success.

Penn State Announces Matt Campbell as New Head Football Coach: A New Era Begins for Nittany Lions

Penn States new football coach, Matt Campbell, received a reassuring call from legendary wrestling coach Cael Sanderson, who offered comfort and confirmation as Campbell transitioned to his new role. Both coaches, who achieved success at Iowa State before moving to Penn State, shared a unique connection. Campbell found leaving Iowa State incredibly difficult, but heartfelt conversations with his players and Sandersons words of understanding helped him make the move.

Penn States football coaching search took an unexpected turn with the hiring of Matt Campbell from Iowa State. After fifty-one days of not being considered, Campbell agreed to become the new head coach, surprising many. The hiring process, described as a Netflix documentary, transformed a disaster into a triumph. Campbell, who had previously turned down numerous offers, was convinced by the opportunity at Penn State and the strong leadership he saw in the universitys officials. He plans to meet with each player individually to understand their perspectives and improve the team.

Matt Campbell, new Penn State head coach, hires Derek Hoodjer, a key player personnel expert from Iowa State. Known for developing overlooked talent into NFL stars, Campbell and Hoodjer aim to strengthen Penn States wide receiver and quarterback positions, leveraging the universitys resources for a promising future.

Penn State defensive tackle Zane Durant, a key leader and four-year starter, has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, opting out of the Pinstripe Bowl. Durant, with impressive stats, aims to join the growing list of Penn State defensive linemen in the pros. He expressed gratitude to coaches who influenced his career. His absence will be felt, but the Nittany Lions will look to other players to step up in the bowl game against Clemson.

Penn States Zane Durant, a key defensive tackle, has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, opting out of the Pinstripe Bowl. With 40 career starts and impressive stats, Durant aims to join Penn States tradition of successful defensive linemen in the pros. He expressed gratitude to coaches and looks forward to the draft, marking a significant moment for both him and the program.

Matt Campbell, a Division Three football coach, becomes Penn States seventeenth head football coach, marking a significant moment for the program. Despite no prior ties, he describes it as a full-circle moment, expressing immense gratitude and respect for the programs rich history. Campbells connection to Penn State dates back to his high school days, admiring legends like Kyle Brady and Joe Paterno. He left Iowa State after ten years, convinced by a conversation with Penn States wrestling coach, Cael Sanderson, and conversations with Athletic Director Pat Kraft and President Neeli Bendapudi. Campbell aims to build on Penn States strong foundation, believing past challenges can be a superpower for sustained excellence.