Penn State looks to have zeroed in on its next football coach, and the Nittany Lions didn't have to search too far into the Midwest to find him.
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ESPN's Pete Thamel reported Friday that Iowa State's Matt Campbell is working toward finalizing a deal to become Penn State's new head coach. The sides met in Iowa on Thursday night and talks have continued, though a few hurdles still need to be cleared before anything becomes official.
Campbell, now in his 1oth season at Iowa State, has quietly built one of the more respected résumés in college football. The Cyclones are 8-4 this year, marking the eighth time his program has finished above .500. They were 11-3 last season and have consistently punched above their weight under his watch.
Sources: Matt Campbell and Penn State are working toward a deal for him to become the next coach at Penn State. There’s multiple steps needed to finalize, including agreeing to terms and formal approval of compensation. pic.twitter.com/fKVu45cCNB
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 5, 2025
Penn State, meanwhile, has been hunting for a replacement since firing James Franklin. They swung big early and may have missed on at least one top target, but Campbell brings stability, credibility and a history of winning in difficult spots.
Before Iowa State, Campbell turned Toledo into a MAC power, going 35-15 and winning a pair of bowl games. So hey, while he may not have been Penn State's first call, he may end up being the right one.
