Texas A&M Football: 3 LSU HC candidates not named Jimbo Fisher

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James Franklin, Penn State football Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

Non-Texas A&M Football LSU HC Candidate No. 2: James Franklin, Penn State

I intentionally listed Mel Tucker first because I believe that he is the least likely name on this list to depart for either the USC or LSU job. As we go through, they will become increasingly more likely options — at least according to me.

James Franklin has been the head coach at Penn State since 2014, and in all respects, has done a strong job as head coach. That said, he has seemingly hit a ceiling with the Nittany Lions. It’s hard to blame anybody in the same conference as Ohio State, but winning just one game against the Buckeyes thus far is highly disappointing.

Franklin is a guy who could benefit from a change of scenery, and it looks like he might do just that.

As recently as this past week, Franklin reportedly hired a new agent in Jimmy Sexton, who is known for putting coaches in position for a big hire. Here’s what his client list looks like.

Nick Saban, Lane Kiffin, Dan Mullen, Kirby Smart, Steven Sarkisian, and Steven Spurrier

The caveat here is that Franklin is a candidate for the USC head coaching position rather than the LSU head coaching position. This move would make a lot of sense for Franklin, who could benefit from being in a conference without an Ohio State-like entity.

For the same reason, I don’t see him taking this job. That said, he’s almost definitely being considered for the position.