Penn State Embraces New Era Under Matt Campbell

The new head coach is redefining the program's identity through a shift in culture and connection to its storied past.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Penn State football is at a crossroads as it transitions from the James Franklin era to the Matt Campbell era. While Franklin's tenure saw the program return to prominence, his strict control over the program's narrative led to a fortress-like mentality at the Lasch Building. In contrast, Campbell is focused on establishing a culture of openness, fun, and a reconnection to Penn State's storied history under Joe Paterno. The players describe a more relaxed atmosphere and the freedom to be themselves, a stark difference from the pressure-filled environment of recent years.

Why it matters

The shift in culture and identity at Penn State is significant, as the program looks to move past the turmoil of the past and reestablish itself as one of the premier college football programs in the country. Campbell's approach of emphasizing football, embracing the program's history, and fostering an environment of trust and freedom could be the key to unlocking the team's full potential.

The details

Under Campbell, the Lasch Building has taken on a new feel, with the doors opening early and players and staff interacting more openly with media and fans. Gone is the strict control over the program's narrative, replaced by a focus on establishing a culture of hard work, passion for the game, and connection to Penn State's storied past. Players have described the atmosphere as more "relaxed" and "fun", with less pressure and fear of making mistakes.

  • Matt Campbell was hired as Penn State's new head coach in September 2025, replacing the fired James Franklin.
  • The team's annual THON media event, where the shift in culture was observed, took place on Saturday, February 22, 2026.

The players

Matt Campbell

The new head coach of the Penn State football team, tasked with redefining the program's identity and culture after the departure of James Franklin.

James Franklin

The former head coach of the Penn State football team, who was fired in September 2025 after several seasons of high expectations but disappointing results.

Pat Kraft

The Penn State athletic director who made the decision to fire James Franklin and hire Matt Campbell as the new head coach.

Cooper Cousins

A Penn State player who commented on the team's more relaxed atmosphere under the new coaching staff.

Garrett Sexton

A Penn State offensive lineman who also noted the team's more relaxed environment compared to previous years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Whatever pressures we had last year is not there. Whatever pressure we had the year before is not there. We're just here to just play ball and to just really have fun again. I feel like that's, for me, the biggest thing for our team. A lot of guys are having fun just being themselves. There's no pressure from the coaches, there's no pressure from the strength staff. You're not having to worry about somebody breathing down your neck if you make a mistake.”

— Anthony Donkoh, Star offensive tackle (on3.com)

“With the expectations coming off of last year, it was a shock. Not only for me, but for everybody around the country, if you really look at it. A bunch of guys had their own personal struggles going on.”

— Cooper Cousins, Penn State player (on3.com)

What’s next

The Penn State football team will continue to adapt to the new culture and identity under Matt Campbell, with the first true test coming in the 2026 season opener.

The takeaway

Matt Campbell's arrival at Penn State represents a significant shift in the program's culture and identity, moving away from the tightly controlled narrative of the James Franklin era towards a more open, relaxed, and historically-grounded approach. This change in atmosphere could be the key to unlocking the team's full potential and returning Penn State to the upper echelon of college football.