James Franklin snaps at reporter for creating ‘narrative’ with questions

During James Franklin’s press conference on Wednesday, he was asked a question about Penn State’s “pass-heavy” offense in the season opener against West Virginia. However, that wasn’t the case — the Nittany Lions ran the ball 35 times and threw it 30 times.

After getting the clarification, Franklin moved on and let the reporters know why.

“If you guys have a question, I’ve got no problem with the question. But the question has to be based on facts,” Franklin said. “You can’t loop your narrative into the question you want to ask to get your answer that you want.”

Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen split the responsibilities in the backfield. Singleton took 13 carries for 70 yards and a touchdown as he looks to build on a big 2022 season which earned him Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors. Allen wasn’t far behind him with 10 carries for 51 yards.

Trey Potts also took six carries for five yards, while quarterback Drew Allar totaled one yard on four carries. Quarterback Beau Pribula also added 18 yards on three carries in addition to a rushing touchdown.

James Franklin on Drew Allar’s performance vs. West Virginia: ‘That’s the Drew that we saw in preseason camp’

Allar got the start at quarterback and looked solid, throwing for 325 yards and three touchdowns on 21 of 29 passing to bring home the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week award. Pribula also came in late and completed his lone pass for seven yards.

It was a strong showing from Allar, who looked good last season as well as he split duties with Sean Clifford. He put together a solid camp, as well, which is why Franklin wasn’t at all surprised he looked so solid.

“That’s the Drew that we saw in preseason camp,” Franklin said. “I think — to be honestly — that’s the Drew we saw unlimited reps last year in terms of when he got into game, he did some really good things and just feels very poised and confident.”

Allar appeared in 10 games last season, giving Penn State fans a sneak peek at what the future could hold at quarterback after Clifford’s career ended and he headed to the NFL. Franklin said they saw something similar to last year, and his mentality hasn’t changed since he became the starter.

“Very similar to how he played last year in a limited role. You never know when you’re the starter. But he looked like the same guy. Consistent, poised, accurate,” Franklin said.