James Franklin shares how Penn State will handle defensive coordinator spot in bowl game

As Penn State begins to prepare for the Peach Bowl, head coach James Franklin shared the team’s plan for the defensive coordinator role.

Manny Diaz, Penn State’s defensive coordinator, is leaving the program to become the head coach at Duke. That, in turn, has left a gap on the Nittany Lions’ coaching staff.

“Obviously, a tremendous opportunity and we’re very, very happy for Manny Diaz and his family,” James Franklin said. “Did a great job for us, has accepted the head coaching position at Duke. So, we will handle it internally very similar to how we’ve handled it on offense for the last few games of the season.”

Late in the regular season, James Franklin decided to move on from offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich. In his place, other offensive assistants stepped up to fill his role before Franklin made a new hire. The plan is to do the same on the defensive side of the ball while Franklin looks at permanently filling the defensive coordinator role.

“And, obviously, trying to also balance that while also interviewing and trying to decide what we’re going to do moving forward with our defensive coordinator position, whether it’s an internal candidate or an external candidate,” Franklin said.

“We’re working through that right now, but we’ll handle it like we have on offense to last the last few games of the season, and I’ll get into more specifics as we get together again.”

Figuring out the defensive coordinator position ahead of the Peach Bowl will be key. The Nittany Lions have been known for their defense this season and they’re taking on an Ole Miss team known for its excellent offense.

Manny Diaz pens goodbye letter to Penn State after accepting Duke job

After moving on from Penn State to take the Duke head coaching job, Manny Diaz sent a letter to say goodbye to Penn State.

“Thank you Penn State – for everything. It has been a great couple of years in State College. Being part of the tradition, history and passion surrounding this incredible football program is an experience the entire Diaz family will forever cherish,” Diaz wrote.

“I am a better coach for the time spent here and I could not be more appreciative to James [Franklin] for giving me this opportunity. The faith, trust and support from James, Pat Kraft, President Bendapudi and the entire leadership team at Penn State means the world to me.”