Penn State quarterback Rocco Becht did not stutter about fans’ championship expectations after they broke James Franklin
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Penn State football fans have high expectations. James Franklin became the head coach ahead of the 2014 season. He went 104-45, winning the Big Ten once, and going to the CFP semi-final in 2024. That was not enough, as Franklin was fired as expectations were not met. Penn State then brought in Matt Campbell, who brought with him quarterback Rocco Becht from Iowa State.
Now, Becht is talking about expectations and what it means to play at Penn State, per Pete Nakos of On3.
“For Penn State fans, anything below that standard is unacceptable,” Becht said. “I’ve heard stories from players who stayed, and I understand how fans react. There are always going to be fans who expect more from you. And honestly, when you’re at a historic program like this, you should want to play at the highest level and compete in those big games.”
In the Franklin era, the big games did not come. Outside of the playoff run in 2024, which had become out of the question after a 3-3 start in 2025, they did not play in another playoff game under Franklin. They did play five New Year’s Six games, winning three. Still, there was just one game played with a championship on the line, when Penn State beat Wisconsin in the 2016 Big Ten Championship. Becht does not feel bad for those who do not meet expectations, though.
“I don’t feel bad for anyone. It’s expected of us, and that’s why you come to Penn State, because you’re expected to win,” the new Nittany Lions QB added. “It’s our job to go out there and win those big, crucial moments. They have every right to be passionate. What I’ve learned is that this place truly cares about football. They care because they expect a winning team, and I respect them for that.”
Expectations remain high for the first year under Campbell at Penn State. They open the season September 5 against Marshall.
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