COACHING STAFF
The leaders guiding the Nittany Lions through the 2025 campaign.
Interim Head Coach
Matt Campbell
Head Coach
Biography
Matt Campbell was named the 17th head coach in Penn State football history on December 6, 2025. The former Iowa State head coach brings a reputation as one of the best program builders in the country. During his time in Ames, he became the winningest coach in program history, leading the Cyclones to eight winning seasons and three bowl victories. Known for his disciplined, physical teams and player development, Campbell signed an 8-year contract to lead the Nittany Lions.
Assistant Coaches
James Franklin
Former Head Coach (Now at Virginia Tech)
James Franklin led Penn State football for 12 seasons (2014-2025), compiling a 104-45 record and winning multiple Big Ten championships. He led the program to the College Football Playoff in 2024 but was fired on October 12, 2025. On November 17, 2025, Franklin was named head coach at Virginia Tech.
Terry Smith
Associate Head Coach / Cornerbacks
Terry Smith served as interim head coach for the final six games of the 2025 regular season, stabilizing the program and leading the team to a 3-3 record and bowl eligibility. Following the hiring of Matt Campbell, Smith was retained as Associate Head Coach and Cornerbacks Coach, becoming the highest-paid non-coordinator assistant in the country. He will coach the team in the Pinstripe Bowl.
Andy Kotelnicki
Offensive Coordinator
Andy Kotelnicki serves as offensive coordinator in his second season, continuing to develop one of the Big Ten's most dynamic offenses. His innovative schemes have been instrumental in the development of the Nittany Lions' offensive unit.
Jim Knowles
Defensive Coordinator
Jim Knowles leads the Penn State defense as coordinator, bringing extensive experience from previous coordinator positions at Ohio State and Oklahoma. His defensive schemes emphasize aggressive playmaking and turnover creation.
Ja'Juan Seider
Running Backs Coach
Ja'Juan Seider has been instrumental in developing Penn State's running back corps, helping players reach their full potential both on and off the field.
Marques Hagans
Wide Receivers Coach
Marques Hagans brings extensive experience as both a player and coach, specializing in developing wide receivers and offensive strategies.
Danny Spencer
Special Teams Coordinator
Danny Spencer oversees all special teams units, focusing on creating explosive plays and maintaining field position advantages.
THE PENN STATE STANDARD
"The Penn State coaching staff is committed to developing young men both on and off the field. With a focus on academic excellence, character development, and competitive success, our coaches prepare student-athletes for life beyond football while striving for excellence in the Big Ten Conference and on the national stage."