The Florida Gators head coaching rumors have been at the forefront of college football since Week 1. After a 2-2 start this year and a 13-16 record since 2022, Billy Napier's time in Gainesville could be coming to an end anytime, and plenty of names have circulated for the job. Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin's name has been tossed around, even more after the Rebels' stunning loss to Kentucky in Week 5.
Another prominent head coach continues to be rumored for the Gators job should it become available: Penn State's James Franklin. Franklin emerged as a potential candidate toward the end of September, and now his name has popped up again, per Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports. "One other coach who continues to generate industry buzz for a potential Florida opening is Penn State head coach James Franklin, who finds himself in a similar situation as Kiffin," Zenitz wrote.
© Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images Zenitz also discussed the Kiffin-Florida rumors, but one holdup in those talks could be Ole Miss making the College Football Playoff. It is the same with Franklin and Florida. If Penn State is involved in the playoff conversation, the Gators might not have the luxury of waiting around.
"If Franklin guides the currently undefeated No. 7 Nittany Lions to the playoff, he's likely untouchable for any big job that may open this cycle," Zenitz continued. "But should Penn State, which has a huge road trip next weekend at No.
11 USC , loses a couple games and misses the CFP, Franklin could be a v.