Campbell to PSU; Cyclones hire Rogers

By TRAVIS JOHNSON

Associated Press

Matt Campbell was hired as Penn State’s coach on Friday night, ending a two-month search by the Nittany Lions to find James Franklin’s successor.

The 46-year-old Campbell heads to Happy Valley after going 72-55 in 10 seasons at Iowa State to become the winningest coach in the history of that program.

Terms of Campbell’s contract were not released, pending approval by a committee of the school’s Board of Trustees. That committee could meet as soon as Monday, after which Campbell is expected to be introduced.

“Coach Campbell is, without a doubt, the right leader at the right time for Penn State football,” athletic director Pat Kraft said in a statement. “He is a stellar coach with a proven track record of success and his values, character and approach to leading student-athletes to success on and off the field align perfectly with the traditions and values of Penn State.”

Terry Smith, who served as the interim head coach following the dismissal of Franklin, has agreed to remain on Campbell’s coaching staff.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to Coach Terry Smith for stepping up when we needed him the most and for rallying our team to finish this season with three straight wins,” Kraft said. “Coach Smith bleeds blue and white and pours his entire heart and soul into Penn State football. I’m deeply grateful for his commitment to our University, and I am excited that he will continue to be a part of this program.

“As we start this exciting next chapter for our football program with Coach Campbell at the helm, the future is bright. We will continue to build upon and elevate the high standard that is the hallmark of our program.”

Penn State advanced to the College Football Playoff semifinals last season and began this season ranked No. 2 in the AP poll, but Franklin was fired after the Nittany Lions started 0-3 in Big Ten play.

Iowa State did not wait long hiring a new coach, hiring Washington State’s Jimmy Rogers hours after Campbell’s departure. Rogers, who signed a six-year deal, won an FCS title at South Dakota State.