Locked On Nittany Lions - Daily Podcast On Penn State Nittany Lions Football & Basketball

Andy Kotelnicki has lost the locker room — and it’s time for Terry Smith to strip his play-calling duties. Zach Seyko reacts to Penn State’s offensive meltdown vs Ohio State, explains how Kotelnicki defied Smith’s personnel orders, and breaks down the latest head coaching search updates. Brent Key officially interviewed during Georgia Tech’s bye week, while Jeff Brohm, Mike Elko, and Brian Hartline remain among the top targets. Zach also discusses why Hartline’s recruiting ability and NFL pedigree continue to make him the most exciting long-term hire for Penn State.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to...

Ohio State DOMINATES Penn State — and it’s time to have some real conversations. This isn’t just another loss. This is a statement about where this program is… and where it’s headed.

We’re breaking it all down LIVE — from the coaching decisions that made no sense, to the lack of adjustments, to the players who looked unprepared in the biggest game of the year. More changes may need to be made after this game.

Plus, an update on Penn State's head coaching search!

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions...

Hey #WeAre Nation! I’m LIVE reacting to Penn State’s first-half performance as we head into the break vs. Ohio State. It’s been a solid 30 minutes for the Lions, and we’re diving deep into what’s gone wrong, what still can go right, and how this game can still flip.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lockedonnittanylions?sub\_confirmation=1

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Peloton

Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training T...

Penn State enters Saturday’s matchup against #1 Ohio State as an 18.5-point underdog — but Zach Seyko explains why the Nittany Lions can still make it close. From Kaytron Allen’s dominance to the emergence of Kobe Howard and Tyseer Denmark, Zach details the game plan Penn State needs to execute to cover the spread — and why Terry Smith’s “empty the clip” mentality could shake up the Buckeyes. He also shares his final score prediction (31–17), breaks down how Ethan Grunkemeyer handles the spotlight, and explains what’s gone wrong with this team since Franklin’s firing.

Become an every-dayer! Subs...

If Penn State hires Brian Hartline, their recruiting problems are over — period. Zach Seyko (Locked On Nittany Lions) and Brian Smith, Locked On's recruiting expert, discuss how Hartline would instantly elevate Penn State’s talent pipeline, fix the wide receiver room, and attract elite quarterbacks. They also break down the James Franklin to Virginia Tech rumors, how NIL will affect his next move, and what Penn State can realistically do to upset Ohio State this weekend. Plus: what interim coach Terry Smith must do to keep the locker room motivated amid the coaching chaos.

Become an every-dayer! Subs...

Though this weekend is not as hectic as it could have a few weeks ago, on paper, there is still plenty to break down ahead of the Big 10's Week 10. The Ohio State Buckeyes will host the Penn State Nittany Lions. The Indiana Hoosiers are traveling to the DMV to take on the Maryland Terrapins. Our predictions for those games and more on the Big 10 Squad.

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/talkbig10

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-big-10/

Locked On College...

Matt Rhule staying at Nebraska is great news for Penn State — and Zach Seyko explains why. Zach joins Brandon Olson (Locked On Gators) and Spencer McLaughlin (Locked On College Football) to break down what Rhule’s decision means for Penn State’s coaching search and how it elevates Brian Hartline, Joe Brady, and Jeff Brohm to the top of the list. They also discuss James Franklin’s potential landing spots, from Virginia Tech to UCLA, and why both Penn State and Florida are stuck in “coaching purgatory.” Finally, the panel ranks the best available jobs — Penn State, Florida, LSU, and beyond — i...

UPDATE: Matt Rhule has signed an extension to remain with Nebraska.

The Penn State–LSU coaching war is officially on. Both programs are chasing Joe Brady, with James Franklin and Lane Kiffin also in the mix. Zach Seyko (Locked On Nittany Lions) and Matt Moscona (Locked On LSU) break down why both schools view Brady as the ideal hire, which job is more appealing right now, and what could push the decision either way. They also discuss the Mike Elko, Kalen DeBoer, and Jeff Brohm rumors, plus why James Franklin landing at LSU is more of a fa...

College football’s coaching carousel just hit another gear — Brian Kelly fired, James Franklin linked to Michigan State, and Brian Hartline gaining real traction for Penn State’s opening. Zach Seyko (Locked On Nittany Lions) and Jacob Goins (Locked On Hoosiers) react to the wildest coaching cycle ever, where Penn State, LSU, Florida, and Michigan State could all swap coaches by December. They debate which programs are truly top jobs, why Indiana’s rise changed the landscape, and preview Penn State–Ohio State and Indiana–Maryland. Plus, Big Ten Week 10 picks and predictions — including Purdue, Minnesota, and USC–Nebraska.

Become an e...

Brian Hartline to Penn State is no longer just a rumor — it’s gaining real traction. Zach Seyko (Locked On Nittany Lions) and Jay Stephens (Locked On Buckeyes) discuss why Hartline’s fit at Penn State makes sense, what Ohio State would lose if it happens, and which players or assistants could follow him. Then, they break down Saturday’s Penn State–Ohio State matchup: the betting line, keys to the game, and why confidence — not talent — defines Penn State’s season. Finally, score predictions, X-factors, and why both agree Ohio State wins big in Columbus.

Become an every-dayer...

Penn State’s coaching search just took a major turn — Brian Hartline is rising fast and could soon become the preferred candidate. Zach Seyko explains why Hartline’s youth, energy, and recruiting success make him a realistic fit for Penn State and why other top names like Kalen DeBoer and Mike Elko are slipping away. He also breaks down Terry Smith’s latest injury updates ahead of the Ohio State game, what the two-quarterback system might look like without Jaxon Smolik, and how Penn State’s recent recruiting flips (Jahsiear Rogers, Davion Brown) reflect a program waiting for leadership.

Becom...

Penn State basketball enters 2025-26 in full rebuild mode — but there’s one reason for hope: Kayden Mingo. Zach Seyko and Zane Brancefield preview the Nittany Lions’ season, explain why Mingo could be an NBA-caliber point guard, and discuss how Mike Rhoades is building a new foundation around youth and international talent. The guys set realistic expectations, breaking down Big Ten competition, projected win totals, and whether Penn State can even make the Big Ten Tournament. Plus, insight on the new rotation, depth chart battles, and which freshmen might surprise fans this winter.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Loc...

The Penn State coaching search just got a lot more complicated. Zach Seyko explains why the openings at LSU, Florida, and possibly Texas make Penn State’s window smaller by the day. With Mike Elko and Kalen DeBoer looking less attainable, Matt Rhule and Brian Hartline have emerged as the most realistic candidates. Zach also previews what’s coming against Ohio State — including Terry Smith’s “new wrinkles” on offense, Nick Singleton’s new role, and how Penn State plans to surprise the Buckeyes this weekend.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.yo...

Penn State wrestling fans can breathe a sigh of relief — Josh Barr’s injury at U23 Worlds isn’t expected to be long-term. Zach Seyko breaks down what happened to Barr, how Connor Mirasola is more than ready to step in at 197, and why Lucas Cochran could factor into heavyweight depth this season. Plus, with Caleb Henson redshirting, Shayne Van Ness becomes the clear NCAA title favorite at 149. And Penn State continues to dominate internationally — Mitchell Mesenbrink brings home gold, while Luke Lilledahl and Levi Haines chase medals at U23 Worlds.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nitta...

For the second year in a row, Penn State might try to poach another Ohio State coach — this time, Brian Hartline. Zach Seyko (Locked On Nittany Lions) and Jay Stephens (Locked On Buckeyes) debate whether Hartline could be Penn State’s next head coach after James Franklin’s firing, and how realistic it would be for him to leave Columbus. They also break down Jim Knowles’ defensive struggles at Penn State, what went wrong schematically, and why the Nittany Lions’ culture problems persist. Plus, an early Penn State–Ohio State preview and how Terry Smith’s interim team could approach the m...

Is the nation underrating the Big 10's championship potential? Plus, game picks for the biggest matchups for Week 9. Can the Indiana Hoosiers fend off the red-hot UCLA Bruins? The Northwestern Wildcats are visiting the Nebraska Cornhuskers. The Washington Huskies are hosting the Illinois Fighting Illini.

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/talkbig10

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-big-10/

Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More

🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege

📢 Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Pe...

Andy Kotelnicki admitted he doesn’t know why Penn State’s offense has fallen apart — so Zach Seyko lays it out. From coaching stubbornness and player regression to the loss of key assistants like Ja'Juan Seider and Frank Leonard, this episode dissects why the Nittany Lions went from a Top-15 offense to barely inside the Top 100. Zach also explains why it took so long for Koby Howard and Tyseer Denmark to get real playing time, and why the “two-quarterback system” isn’t sustainable with the current depth chart. Plus, a preview of what to expect as Penn State faces Ohio State a...

The college football coaching carousel is out of control — and it all started with Penn State. Zach Seyko (Locked On Nittany Lions) and Jacob Goins (Locked On Hoosiers) react to the ripple effect from James Franklin’s firing, including Florida, LSU, and Auburn now facing similar pressure. They also discuss Indiana’s stability under Kurt Cignetti, Penn State’s heartbreaking 25–24 loss to Iowa, and what the Nittany Lions can salvage the rest of 2025. Plus, Week 9 Big Ten picks and predictions — with some surprises across the conference.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www...

Penn State’s coaching search is colliding with the national coaching carousel. Zach Seyko and Brian Smith break down the latest news: Mike Elko, Kalen DeBoer, Matt Rhule, and Eli Drinkwitz headline Penn State’s shortlist, but the competition just got tougher with Florida, Florida State, and possibly LSU entering the market. They also debate James Franklin’s next move — could he land at Florida, Florida State, or even UCLA? Plus, how Penn State’s recruiting class and transfer portal outlook could stabilize depending on who they hire and when.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Li...

James Franklin is gone — but the problems remain. Zach Seyko and Andrew Kalista break down Penn State’s latest issues, from Jim Knowles’ defense and Andy Kotelnicki’s offense to the lack of development that’s haunted the roster. They also update the Penn State coaching hot board, with new names like Clark Lea, Jeff Brohm, and Mike Elko emerging as realistic candidates. Plus, what Ethan Grunkemeyer’s first start tells us about his future, and whether Penn State can still fix its quarterback pipeline before 2026.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www...

Penn State's offensive woes against Iowa raise questions about their quarterback strategy. Is Ethan Grunkemeyer the answer, or should the playbook be adjusted? Host Zach Seyko breaks down the Nittany Lions' struggles, highlighting Kaytron Allen's standout performance amidst team challenges. The discussion shifts to potential coaching changes, including Jim Knowles' future as defensive coordinator and James Franklin's rumored move to Florida. Zach explores how these moves could reshape Penn State's program and impact recruiting.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lockedonnittanylions?sub\_confirmation=1

Support Us By...

Penn State blew an 11-point second-half lead to Iowa. We’re breaking down exactly how it unraveled: clock management, play-calling, QB decision-making, defensive busts, special teams swings, and the sequence that flipped the game. We’ll talk accountability—players vs. coaches—what this means for the season, and where the Nittany Lions go from here.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LockedOnNittanyLions?sub\_confirmation=1

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

SupplyHouse

Join the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority...

We’re breaking down the first 30 minutes from Kinnick Stadium: the momentum swings, critical third downs, red-zone decisions, and who’s actually controlling the line of scrimmage. We’ll hit the biggest plays of the half, coaching adjustments from Terry Smith and Kirk Ferentz, standout performances, any injuries to watch, and the keys Penn State needs to steal the second half. Jump in the chat with your halftime takes—what worked, what didn’t, and your score predictions!

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LockedOnNittanyLions?sub\_confirmation=1

Support...

Penn State fans — it’s time to react. Former head coach James Franklin broke his silence on ESPN’s College GameDay, addressing his firing and future for the first time since being let go by Penn State. We’ll break down everything he said — the tone, the message, what it means for the Nittany Lions moving forward, and how the college football world is responding.

Then we’ll pivot to a full final preview of Penn State vs. Iowa — what to expect from Terry Smith’s interim debut, key matchups, how the locker room might respond, and whether the Nitt...

Penn State’s search for a new head coach is heating up — and Fran Brown is suddenly part of the conversation. Zach Seyko (Locked On Nittany Lions) and Jackson Holzer (Locked On Syracuse) break down whether the Syracuse head coach would consider leaving for Penn State, how the move would impact recruiting, and why Brown’s name keeps popping up alongside Matt Rhule and Mike Elko. They also discuss how Franklin’s firing opened doors for Syracuse on the recruiting trail — including visits from Kemon Spell and Khalil Taylor. Plus, what interim coach Terry Smith is doing to stabilize Penn State...

Penn State travels to Iowa in its first game since James Franklin’s firing and Drew Aller’s injury, setting up a must-watch matchup at Kinnick Stadium. Zach Seyko (Locked On Nittany Lions) and Trent Condon (Locked On Hawkeyes) preview the clash — from how Terry Smith is resetting Penn State’s locker room to what Ethan Grunkemeyer can do in his first start. They break down the X’s and O’s, Phil Parker’s defensive game plan, and how Iowa’s rushing attack could overwhelm a shaken Penn State front. Plus, game predictions, betting lines, and a look at how both team...

It has been a massive week for the Big 10, and it will be another big weekend during Week 8. James Franklin got fired, the Indiana Hoosiers proved they belong against the Oregon Ducks, plus game picks for this weekend.

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/talkbig10

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-big-10/

Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More

🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege

📢 Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

SupplyHouse

Join the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priori...

National pundits say Penn State made a mistake firing James Franklin after a 13-win season and College Football Playoff appearance — but the Nittany Lions believe they can do better. Zach Seyko and Pat Koerbler break down why the move made sense, why Franklin’s ceiling had been reached, and what comes next in the coaching search. From Matt Rhule and Mike Elko to long shots like Urban Meyer, they evaluate who best fits Penn State’s vision for the future. Plus: how Pat Kraft’s confidence proves this isn’t a panic move — it’s a reset.

Check out Pat...

The Big Ten just flipped upside down. Penn State fires James Franklin while Indiana shocks Oregon, making a legitimate claim as the #1 team in the country. Zach Seyko (Locked On Nittany Lions) and Jacob Goins (Locked On Hoosiers) react to the Franklin fallout, discuss whether Kurt Signetti could replace him at Penn State, and debate Indiana’s national title chances. Plus, full Big Ten Week 8 picks and predictions — including Penn State at Iowa, Washington at Michigan, and USC at Notre Dame.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lockedonnittanylions?sub\...

Penn State wrestling just secured the #1 lightweight in the Class of 2027 — Landon Sidun. The future Nittany Lion joins Locked On Nittany Lions to discuss why he committed early, what makes Penn State feel like home, and how Cale Sanderson’s culture shaped his decision. Sidun also opens up about overcoming injury, his recent Who’s Number One win, and his long-term goals — from NCAA titles to Olympic dreams. Plus: his relationship with teammates like Gavin Mangano and what Penn State fans can expect from the newest member of the dynasty.

Follow Landon's wrestling journey!

X: https...

Could UCLA actually hire James Franklin after Penn State fired him? Zach Seyko (Locked On Nittany Lions) joins Zach Anderson-Yoxsimer (Locked On UCLA) to break down the craziest two-week turnaround in college football — from Franklin leading Oregon in overtime to getting fired days later. Would Franklin fit in Los Angeles? Is UCLA ready to pay for a proven name? The two Zachs debate the fit, timing, and potential chaos if Franklin brings his recruiting machine and energy to the Rose Bowl.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lockedonnittanylions?su...

Penn State’s coaching search has its first big headline — Curt Cignetti. Zach Seyko (Locked On Nittany Lions) and Jacob Goins (Locked On Hoosiers) break down whether Cignetti would actually leave Indiana, what makes him the top candidate, and how Penn State’s resources could make the move possible. They also debate which job is better — Penn State or Indiana — in the new college football landscape. Plus: what the Hoosiers’ rise under Cignetti means for Penn State’s rebuild and recruiting battles across the Big Ten.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.yo...

LIVE reaction to a seismic day in Happy Valley. We’re breaking down Penn State AD Pat Kraft’s press conference explaining the decision to fire James Franklin and what led to this moment. Then we pivot to interim head coach Terry Smith—what he said, what changes are coming immediately, and how the Nittany Lions regroup for the stretch run. Join the chat, drop your questions, and let’s sort fact from headline.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lockedonnittanylions?sub\_confirmation=1

Support Us By Supporti...

With James Franklin officially fired, Penn State’s focus now shifts to finding its next head coach. Zach Seyko and Brian Smith run through realistic and dream candidates — from Matt Rhule and Mike Elko to Will Stein, Curt Cignetti, and more. They also dive into how the firing impacts recruiting, what Terry Smith’s interim role means, and how Penn State’s roster will weather the transfer portal storm. The Nittany Lions are a top-10 program with top-5 potential — but the next hire must define the next decade of Penn State football.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On...

We’re going live to break down the bombshell in Happy Valley. What led to James Franklin’s exit, how this impacts Penn State football right now, and where the program goes from here—recruiting, the locker room, NIL, the portal, and the 2025 season outlook. We’ll discuss buyout details, interim plans, and the early shortlist of coaching candidates. Bring your questions and hot takes—we’ll react in real time.

Drop your thoughts in chat: Who should be Penn State’s next head coach and why?

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTu...

Penn State and James Franklin are officially at a crossroads. After the humiliating loss to Northwestern, the fanbase, alumni, and donors are unified in frustration — and the writing’s on the wall. Zach Seyko and Zane Brancefield break down why waiting until the end of the season makes no sense, how Franklin’s $50 million buyout complicates everything, and why assistant head coach Terry Smith could be the short-term answer. Plus: what firing Franklin would mean for the roster, NIL, and Penn State’s future as one of college football’s top-10 brands.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On...

Penn State’s season is officially over after a humiliating 22–21 home loss to Northwestern. James Franklin’s “best roster ever” showed no fight, no urgency, and no leadership, ending any hopes of salvaging 2025. Drew Allar left the game on a cart with a likely season-ending injury, and Beaver Stadium echoed with “Fire Franklin” chants. Zach Seyko reacts live from Beaver Stadium, breaking down how Penn State’s collapse went from bad to unthinkable — and what it means for Franklin’s future, the locker room, and the program’s direction.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: http...

Penn State’s week got even worse as 5-star running back commit Kemon Spell admitted he’s “not 100%” with the Nittany Lions. Zach Seyko breaks down Spell’s comments, what this means for Penn State’s 2027 class, and why James Franklin’s job security may now hinge on recruiting momentum. Plus: a full Penn State vs Northwestern preview, key matchups, and final score prediction.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LockedOnNittanyLions?sub\_confirmation=1

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

SupplyHouse

Join the free TradeMast...

Penn State football reels from top wide receiver Khalil Taylor's decommitment, while concerns swirl around 5-star running back Kemon Spell's commitment status. Host Zach Seyko dissects the implications for Penn State's program, Franklin's tenure, and the challenges of modern college football recruiting. They analyze the impact of NIL deals and the transfer portal on securing and retaining top talent.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LockedOnNittanyLions?sub\_confirmation=1

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

SupplyHouse

Join the free TradeMaster program today and...

Penn State’s veterans keep getting reps — but the future stars are watching from the sideline. Zach Seyko explains why Tyseer Denmark, Koby Howard, Quinton Martin, and Cam Wallace deserve snaps now, how NIL loyalty may be shaping the rotation, and why the Nittany Lions could be on upset watch again versus Northwestern. Plus: game plan keys, score prediction, and how Penn State can quiet the boos at Beaver Stadium.

Become an every-dayer! Subscribe to Locked On Nittany Lions on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LockedOnNittanyLions?sub\_confirmation=1

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Su...