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James Franklin does pushups during press conference over White Out factoid

Paul Harvey

By Paul Harvey

Published:

James Franklin believes in accountability within his Penn State football program. That includes himself, even if it’s just about getting a fact related to the White Out incorrect.

During his Tuesday press conference, Franklin began his opening statement by referring to Saturday’s game as the 17th full-stadium White Out for the Nittany Lions. That statement drew a reaction or a funny look from one member of the press that Franklin spotted.

“This will be our 17th White Out, which is really cool. First one was in 2007 against Notre Dame. We need the fans to arrive early and be loud, have a full stadium before kickoff,” said Franklin. “Very similar to what we did against West Virginia. Umm… Do you not agree with that? Your face is…”

Members of the audience then disputed back and forth with Franklin on the total number of White Outs. Franklin then informed them that the loser of the fact debate would have to do 5 pushups.

“So I got bad information is what you’re saying?… It’s going to be interesting. The loser between you and Kincaid has to do 5 pushups.”

Franklin was informed the press release was wrong and he quickly asked who handed the press releases out.

“Who gave the press release out? So you have got 5 pushups either way right now, the question is is it 5 or 10,” said Franklin to the unlucky individual.

In the end, it was determined that Saturday will be the 15th full-stadium White Out for the program. With Franklin winding up on the wrong end of the debate, he dropped down for pushups of his own.

Franklin was certainly in a good mood for the press conference, but that doesn’t fully hide the challenge of Saturday. Penn State will face Iowa in a top-25 showdown, though the Nittany Lions will be favored with the White Out also on their side.

Saturday’s primetime kickoff will be set for CBS.

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.