Bruce Feldman recently ranked James Franklin, Penn State’s head football coach, as a major figure in college football. Feldman’s ranking looks at how coaches across the country perform and influence the sport.
Franklin lands among the top in his field. The article breaks down how these rankings work and what makes Franklin and other coaches stand out.
For RV travelers who love college football, this could be a fun excuse to visit the campuses and stadiums of top-ranked coaches. It’s a great way to mix football passion with the freedom of the open road.
Understanding the Rankings
Bruce Feldman, a respected college football analyst, put together these rankings by weighing factors like team performance, recruitment, and overall impact. Franklin’s knack for guiding Penn State to strong seasons and bowl games really helped his case.
Other coaches, like Matt Campbell at Iowa State and Justin Fuente from Virginia Tech, make the list too. Each brings something unique to their programs.
Criteria for Evaluation
The rankings focus on a few main points:
- Team Performance: How well the team does during the season and in big games.
- Recruitment Success: Attracting and developing top talent.
- Program Impact: The coach’s influence on the program’s culture and fan base.
RV travelers might get a deeper appreciation for these coaches by visiting their campuses. Penn State, for example, has a rich football history and a game-day vibe that’s worth experiencing in person.
James Franklin’s Journey
Franklin’s time at Penn State has been full of big moments. Since arriving in 2014, he’s led the Nittany Lions through multiple winning seasons and some pretty big bowl victories.
He’s also brought in top-tier recruits, keeping Penn State in the national spotlight. The team’s reputation as a powerhouse owes a lot to his efforts.
Key Achievements
Franklin’s highlights include:
- Guiding Penn State to a Big Ten Championship in 2016.
- Securing several New Year’s Six bowl game appearances.
- Landing consistent top 25 finishes in national rankings.
These achievements show Franklin’s coaching chops. For RV travelers who love college football, Penn State is a must-see—game days at Beaver Stadium are electric, and the Pennsylvania scenery isn’t too shabby either.
Exploring Other Top Coaches
Franklin’s success stands out, but Matt Campbell and Justin Fuente have made their marks too. Campbell has turned Iowa State into a real contender in the Big 12, while Fuente has worked to revamp Virginia Tech’s program.
Each coach has a different style, which makes their campuses interesting stops for football fans on the road.
Matt Campbell at Iowa State
Matt Campbell’s arrival in 2016 changed things for Iowa State. He’s taken the Cyclones to new places, including a historic 2020 season and a trip to the Big 12 Championship game.
Campbell’s focus on player development and building a winning attitude has made Iowa State a team to watch. RV travelers heading to Ames can see the change for themselves—the energy on game day and the local hospitality make it a great stop.
Justin Fuente at Virginia Tech
Justin Fuente stepped in after legendary coach Frank Beamer at Virginia Tech. That’s no easy task, but Fuente has kept the Hokies competitive in the ACC with several bowl appearances and strong recruiting.
Blacksburg, Virginia, sits in the Appalachian Mountains and offers stunning views. RV travelers can soak up the natural beauty and catch a Hokies game at Lane Stadium, where the fans bring serious energy.
Planning Your RV Trip
If you want to mix your love of college football with RV travel, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some tips that might help you get the most out of your trip:
- Research Game Schedules: Check out the schedules for the teams and coaches you want to see. Planning around the big games can make your trip a lot more exciting.
- Book Campsites Early: Spots at popular places like Penn State or Virginia Tech tend to fill up fast. It’s a good idea to reserve your spot as early as you can.
- Explore Local Attractions: Spend some time wandering around the towns and cities you visit. College towns usually have their own charm, with cool restaurants and quirky attractions you won’t find anywhere else.
Cheering on James Franklin’s Nittany Lions or catching a game from rising programs led by Matt Campbell or Justin Fuente—it’s all part of the adventure. There’s something special about seeing the country this way, even if you’re just in it for the tailgates and the atmosphere.
If you want more details on the latest college football coach rankings, check out the full article here.
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