Fans had plenty to say after the news broke that head coach James Franklin was fired. From heartfelt paragraphs to memes celebrating the split, these posts took the internet by storm.

We’ve gathered some of the best posts across social media reflecting all the disappointment, the relief, and the humor.

Maybe the birdie knew something the rest of us didn’t. Not even James Franklin.

Not all heroes wear capes – some ride horses.

James Franklin after getting fired by Penn State pic.twitter.com/Ch82hpkOih

— brayden. (@bpgbrooks) October 13, 2025

Tough day for Franklin… Hopefully the $49 million payout will help.

Human development and family studies professor Molly Countermine writes that criticism and compassion can coexist. Franklin’s legacy is more than just the final score.

As fans try to theorize who could be the next coach, two clear front-runners have emerged – Keegan-Michael Key and Sue Sylvester. Tough competition ahead for any other possible coaches.

Though Penn State begins a new chapter, the challenges of recruiting and rebuilding the program remain.

The writing was on the wall, even if the numbers made it seem impossible.

When you realize chanting really works – a little too well.