University Park, PA – As Matt Campbell begins his transition into the head coaching role at Penn State, he received early help from a figure deeply rooted in the program’s culture. Terry Smith, who served as interim head coach following James Franklin’s dismissal on October 12, is expected to remain on staff, per Audrey Snyder.
Smith’s exact role under Campbell has not yet been announced, but his experience makes him a valuable asset moving forward. He has been part of Penn State’s staff since 2014 and has served as assistant head coach since 2016. His connection to the program spans decades, Smith played wide receiver for the Nittany Lions from 1988 to 1991 and spent a long stretch as the head coach at Gateway High School (Monroeville, PA) before coaching at Temple under Matt Rhule.
During his interim tenure, Smith helped Penn State stabilize after a six-game losing streak, its longest since 2004, and guided the Lions to bowl eligibility, a feat reached by just nine percent of teams that start 3–6.
Smith also played a significant role on early signing day Wednesday by keeping recruiting momentum alive. His persistence was pivotal in the recommitment of four-star Nazareth (PA) quarterback Peyton Falzone, one of the bright spots in an otherwise turbulent cycle.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.Smith’s return gives Campbell a trusted internal presence as he builds his first Penn State staff, a bridge between the program’s past and future.
Stay with Nittany Sports Now for continued coverage of Matt Campbell’s arrival in Happy Valley.
