In this episode of Beyond the Game Podcast, Justin is joined by longtime Central PA sports voice Crey Giger to break down the biggest shift in Penn State football in years: moving on from James Franklin and the search for PSU’s next head coach.

They dive into what today’s top programs really need — a true CEO-style leader — and why NIL, recruiting, player development, and locker-room culture played a massive role in Penn State’s plateau. Justin and Cory lay out the core issues, the risks of change, and the traits the next coach must have to elevate the program.

They also explore realistic coaching candidates, why PSU is now a top-tier job, and how the transfer portal and modern expectations complicate every decision.

🎧 Sponsored by Dazzle Sports — use code BTG for 20% off.

0:00 – “Coach or CEO?” — The opening debate on what modern college football coaching really requires
1:30 – Justin introduces Cory Giger + sponsor shoutout
6:00 – Justin explains his long-standing concerns with James Franklin
11:00 – The core issue: why player development and adjustments never hit championship level
15:00 – NIL + culture: the moment the program’s momentum started slipping
17:00 – Cory’s bold take: why firing Franklin was necessary
18:45 – The uncomfortable truth — the next coach might not be better
22:10 – Is Penn State truly a top-tier job? Cory breaks it down
25:40 – Transfer portal realities and how it reshapes coaching decisions
30:10 – Cory’s top candidates and who actually fits PSU’s needs
36:00 – The “fit” factor: why personality and leadership style matter more than ever
38:00 – Final thoughts: risk, reward, and the future of Penn State football