Penn State's 2019 Review Highlights Tensions Between Coach James Franklin and Team Doctor

In 2019, Penn State conducted an internal review that revealed significant tensions between football coach James Franklin and former team doctor Dr. Scott Lynch. The review, encapsulated in a 15-page report dated June 3, 2019, found evidence of 'friction' but could not conclusively determine whether Franklin violated NCAA bylaws or Big Ten standards by interfering with medical decisions.

The report acknowledged that the athletic department's desire to make a change came after periods of friction between Lynch and senior leadership in the department. However, it recommended further inquiry without detailing any specific internal follow-up.

Dr. Scott Lynch, a former national champion football wrestler at Penn State, was removed from his position as director of sports medicine in March 2019. Lynch later filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against the hospital that employs him, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, and was awarded $5.25 million by a Pennsylvania jury.

Why this matters: The tension between coaches and medical staff has significant implications for the health and well-being of student-athletes. If coaches are allowed to interfere with medical decisions, it could lead to serious injuries or long-term health consequences for athletes.

Lynch alleged that his removal was a retaliatory action for his frequent conflicts with Franklin over the medical treatment of players. He described the situation as a 'crisis' in college sports, stating, 'That nonsense has to stop.'

Penn State stated that its medical decisions regarding athlete care and competition adhere to NCAA rules and Big Ten standards. 'Protecting the health and welfare of our student athletes is our single most important priority,' the university said in a statement. 'Throughout James Franklin's tenure, he has worked tirelessly to build a program focused on the well-being of student athletes.'

The internal review investigated several incidents involving football player injuries and one involving a men's soccer player. Lynch claimed his authority was challenged in each case. Defense attorneys argued that no medical treatments were altered under pressure from Franklin or other Penn State coaches, a conclusion supported by the internal report.

James Franklin has been the coach at Penn State for 10 years, achieving an 88-39 record and five seasons of double-digit victories. In 2021, Penn State awarded Franklin a 10-year contract worth more than $75 million.

The NCAA bylaws require schools to support the unchallengeable autonomous authority of primary athletics health care providers regarding treatments and return-to-play decisions. Big Ten Conference standards also bar coaches from attempting to influence medical or athletic training staff inappropriately.

Dr. Lynch hopes his case will serve as a catalyst for policy changes to better safeguard medical staff from pressure by coaches. 'My overarching goal is to try to get policies and procedures in place to stop this from happening,' he said.

While the internal review highlighted the friction between James Franklin and Dr. Scott Lynch, it left unresolved questions about the extent of any potential rule violations. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing athletic success with the health and welfare of student-athletes.

Key Takeaways

• Penn State's internal review found "friction" between coach James Franklin and team doctor Dr. Scott Lynch.
• Lynch alleged Franklin interfered with medical decisions, leading to his wrongful termination.
• The review couldn't determine if Franklin violated NCAA bylaws or Big Ten standards.
• Lynch was awarded $5.25 million in a wrongful termination lawsuit against the hospital.
• The incident highlights the need to balance athletic success with student-athlete health and welfare.