Big Ten Coach James Franklin Calls for Uniformity in College Football
Penn State coach James Franklin has reiterated his call for uniformity in college football, stating that the sport needs consistency in its scheduling and rules. Franklin, who previously suggested that former Alabama coach Nick Saban should become the commissioner of college football, believes that the current system is flawed and prioritizes finances over the interests of student-athletes and the game.
Franklin argued that the lack of uniformity is causing confusion and making it difficult for teams to prepare for games. He pointed out that the Big Ten and Big 12 conferences play nine conference games, while the Southeastern Conference and Atlantic Coast Conference play eight, and the Mountain West plays seven. Notre Dame, which is not a member of a conference, has a unique schedule.
Franklin also suggested that the season should start a week earlier to alleviate end-of-year pressures, and that a commissioner should be appointed to oversee the game. He listed Saban, former Boise State and Washington coach Chris Petersen, and former Wake Forest coach Dave Clawson as potential candidates for the role.
Other coaches, including Mississippi’s Lane Kiffin and Duke’s Manny Diaz, have expressed support for the idea of a commissioner. However, Diaz noted that giving the commissioner power is crucial, and that the current system, where power is held by individual conferences, is hindering the game.
Franklin’s call for uniformity is just the latest in a series of attempts to reform college football, which is facing challenges related to name, image, and likeness, the expanded playoff, and the increasing length of the college season.