James Franklin Media Notebook | Game 3 - Villanova

Penn State football head coach James Franklin addressed the media on Wednesday afternoon ahead of Saturday’s non-conference finale against Villanova. Most notably, Franklin provided analysis on Villanova’s defensive style and the midseason transfer portal.

1. Prepping for Another Odd Front Defense

Penn State’s offense will be faced with a familiar look on Saturday as Villanova will bring their odd front defense to Happy Valley, the same style used by FIU last week. Franklin noted that in this style of defense, players are “constantly moving, spiking, slanting, twisting” and acknowledged that it is a smart style. There’s a “method to their madness,” Franklin added, and he also admitted that it does cause some challenges. Despite this, the Penn State offense has been working on odd front defense “all the way from the summer.” 

2. Midseason Transfer Portal Causes Issues