Tennessee linebacker Keenan Pili, left, tackles Kent State running back Curtis Douglas (24) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, in Knoxville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

Franklin was asked about the value of playing Kent State, which comes off a 71-0 loss at Tennessee and ranks last among FBS teams in both yards per game on offense (201.3) and defense (569.7).

He acknowledged, “Obviously, they’ve had challenges,” but defended their presence on the schedule.

“When you schedule these opponents, typically five to seven years out, you don’t know what you’re going to get,” he said. “Some of the MAC teams have given people fits.”

Notre Dame was stunned by MAC entry Northern Illinois two weeks ago, a reference point for top-level programs.

“There are a lot of teams that can be sad on Saturday night,” he said. “You don’t want to be one of them. Ultimately, we’re trying to approach every opponent with the same mentality.”

Open date focus

The Lions were idle last week, and Franklin said the coaching staff focused on recruiting and developing depth among the younger players.

Penn State has two byes this season – Saturday and Oct. 19.

He said awareness has been raised on cutting down penalties.

“Major priority,” he called it. “We’re making things more difficult than they need to be.”

The Lions have been flagged 15 times, tied for the highest total in the country through this past weekend’s games.

He said the penalties are contributing to extending opponent’s drives, reducing the Lions’ time of possession and limiting opportunities for some offensive players.

PSU’s average time of possession of 29:12 ranks 83rd nationally.

Franklin attributed Penn State’s defensive struggles in its game against Bowling Green to shoddy tackling after being pleased with it in the opener at West Virginia.

Fan of BOB

Franklin was asked about Bill O’Brien’s first season at Boston College, in which the Eagles are 2-1 with a win at Florida State and a competitive loss at No. 7 Missouri.

The two coached at Maryland together 20 years ago, and, of course, Franklin succeeded O’Brien at Penn State.

Franklin said they lived in the same neighborhood at Maryland, and their wives are friendly.

“I think it’s been a win-win for Billy and BC,” he said. “Obviously, I’ve followed his career, and it’s been cool to watch.”

Injury report

• Franklin did not have an update on injured safety K.J. Winston, who was hurt against Bowling Green and did not return. He said true freshman Dejuan Lane is getting more work in practice.

• Wide receiver Kaden Saunders has been relegated mainly to punt return work due to a “lingering” injury.

NOTABLE

• Franklin confirmed backup tight end Luke Reynolds, a true freshman, will continue to play and not redshirt.

• Penn State announced Monday that kickoff for next Saturday’s homecoming game with Illinois will be at 7 or 7:30 p.m. with TV yet to be finalized.