By Evan MasseyShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberThe Penn State Nittany Lions are in the middle of searching for a new head coach. After making the decision to move on from James Franklin in the middle of the season, plenty of names have surfaced as potential options for the program.
One of the most popular potential candidates has been Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman.
While Penn State is not likely to pry Freeman away from the Fighting Irish, he has been an ideal fit since Franklin was dismissed. It would be a dream scenario for the Nittany Lions to be able to land Freeman to lead them into the future.
Read more: Terry Smith Sends Warning to Penn State Amid Player Advocacy
Even though it's highly unlikely that Freeman will leave Notre Dame to join Penn State, he remains an option at this point in time.
...According to a report from Tolu Akintunde of Nittany Lions Wire, Freeman has not dismissed the idea of the Nittany Lions just yet. However, he is considered a long shot and would likely prefer to wait for the Ohio State job to open or for an NFL opportunity.
"Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman is still technically in the picture, but it’s fading fast," Akintunde wrote. "Sources say he hasn’t completely ruled Penn State out, but the odds aren’t great. He’s far more likely to wait for a future opening at Ohio State or an NFL team. Still, with a crack in the door, Penn State’s not backing off just yet."
Freeman has had a lot of success with the Fighting Irish since taking over the job back in 2021.
He has led the program to a 41-12 overall record. Last season, he led Notre Dame to the national championship game before falling to Ohio State. Adding that kind of a coach would help put Penn State back on the map quickly.
Unfortunately, the reality of the situation is that Freeman isn't going to become the Nittany Lions' new head coach. Barring a massive shocking decision, Freeman will remain with the Fighting Irish.
Read more: Florida’s Backup Plan Could be Kirby Smart’s Worst Nightmare
Only time will tell who ends up getting the job. The main names to keep an eye on right now appear to be Georgia Tech head coach Brent Key and Alabama's Kalen DeBoer. Pat Fitzgerald is another name to watch closely.
Expect to hear more news come out about Penn State's coaching search in the near future.
For more on the Penn State Nittany Lions and college football news, head to Newsweek Sports.
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