Since firing James Franklin as head coach after the 22-21 Week 7 loss to the Northwestern Wildcats, speculation has grown about who will take the Penn State job. Indiana Hoosiers head coach Curt Cignetti has emerged as a popular name for the Penn State Nittany Lions, and he added fuel to the flames about that rumor in his latest comments about interim coach Terry Smith.

During a guest appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” on ESPN, the 64-year-old head coach was asked to share his thoughts about Smith after Cignetti mentioned an Indiana high school game to McAfee. Curt Cignetti praised Smith and believes he'll do a fine job as Penn State's interim head coach.

“I love you guys, and I heard you talking about the Gateway Gators against the Plum Mustangs the other day. You know what I mean?” asked Cignetti. He then followed up McAfee's comment, pointing out Smith's connection with the Gateway Gators by stating, “And that's a great football coach. Let me tell you, he'll do a great job there.”

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Curt Cignetti and Terry Smith both have a connection with the Gateway Gators, as they both attended that high school. However, it was in different eras, as Smith is 56 years old, making him eight years younger. Despite that, the two have seemingly known each other over the years through coaching football.

It is unclear whether or not Cignetti will leave Indiana for another coaching job. However, with numerous jobs available and the fact that the Hoosiers are playing as a true contender in his two years with the program, hints that the 2024 AP Coach of the Year may receive some offers in the offseason.

In the meantime, Penn State will focus on its next opponent in Week 8 when the Nittany Lions take on the Iowa Hawkeyes. It will be Terry Smith's first time serving as head coach, and the program seemingly hopes to snap its three-game losing streak.