It’s been less than 2 weeks since Penn State fired James Franklin, who was in his 12th season. The Nittany Lions’ brass is quietly scanning the landscape, and many hoped Nebraska’s Matt Rhule would be the easy first call. Being a Penn State alum and having a relationship with AD Pat Kraft could be the next right fit. But there is another name rumored — Jeff Brohm, as it is about tempting a hometown hero to risk being disowned by his own people.

As fans continue to debate who’s the best James Franklin replacement, The Athletic’s Stewart Mandel discussed the possibility on The Audible on October 22. Brohm, the $5.9 million man who’s turned Louisville into a nightmare opponent for the nation’s elite, might be a perfect fit with a caveat. “I kind of think Penn State should go after him too,” he said. “Like if Brohm goes somewhere else, I think maybe for Ohio State, like maybe the best of the best, maybe they’d be more forgiving. But pretty much everywhere else, they will disown him. And is he okay with being disowned by his hometown school?”

Because the 54-year-old already has so much history with the Cardinal. 

Jeff Brohm isn’t just from Louisville. The Brohms are Louisville. He quarterbacked the Cardinals to the 1993 Liberty Bowl title and was the MVP of the game. His brother, Greg Brohm, was a four-year starter at wideout. His younger brother Brian Brohm led Louisville’s 12–1 team in 2006. Currently serving as their offensive coordinator and QB coach. Their dad, Oscar Brohm, also slung passes for the Cards. So, you see the loyalty that the Brohms have for the program. 

When Jeff Brohm took the Louisville job in 2023, it was more of a homecoming than a hire. He even turned them down once for Purdue before finally giving in the second time, like a prodigal son answering his city’s call. No wonder Stewart Mandel said leaving now would get him “disowned.” “I don’t think he would come. But never say never,” he added. And here’s where it gets spicy. Penn State might be the one program worth that kind of betrayal.

Why Penn State should still make the call for Jeff Brohm 

For all of James Franklin’s consistency, Penn State’s plateau is obvious. During his stint with the Nittany Lions, his record was just 4–21 against top-10 opponents. This includes even a poor showing of 1-18 against Big Ten teams. Meanwhile, Jeff Brohm is 4–2 against top-five teams, including last week’s shocker over No. 2 Miami. This wasn’t straightforward for the Cardinals, who relied on multiple tactical schemes.

With three different players taking direct snaps on the opening drive, and a formation of three quarterbacks split wide. It was enough to end the Hurricanes’ 10-game home winning streak. Jeff Brohm, in just two seasons, has won 19 games with two different transfer QBs. Plus, the Cardinals HC revived USC castoff Miller Moss into a star. Against Miami, Moss completed 23 of 37 passes for 248 yards. Now, Louisville is #19 and continuing its march with an overall 5-1 record.

So, Penn State would hope that its next hire brings in similar or better results. That’s why AD Pat Kraft can take the gamble on Jeff Brohm. The only question is if he would risk his hometown crown for Happy Valley glory. Because at Louisville, leaving once made him a hero. Leaving again might make him history.