It took a lot for Penn State athletic director Pat Kraft to fire James Franklin. Regardless of whether it was the right move, parting ways with Franklin meant the school would have to pay a $50 million buyout to the coach, the second-highest total in college football history.

But Kraft made that call. Despite Penn State starting the season 3-0, three straight losses took the team out of championship contention. That was enough for Kraft to ignore that hefty buyout number and fire Franklin.

That three-game losing streak, however, wasn’t the only factor that led to Franklin’s dismissal. Kraft spoke about that decision Monday, saying he took many things into account before deciding Franklin had to go.

Kraft added that he knew it was the right decision Saturday, but opted to sleep on it to make sure he felt the same Sunday.

When asked what he’s looking for in Penn State’s next head coach, Kraft said he wanted someone who could build Penn State into “the best program in the country.” Kraft also sent a message to fans, saying they can hate him and they can hate Franklin, but they should support the players this season.

With Franklin out, Penn State will be coached by assistant Terry Smith the rest of the season. Smith has the job on an interim basis, though will have the ability to earn the full-time role depending on how he performs, Kraft said Monday. 

Smith addressed his role Monday and was extremely complimentary to Franklin and the job he did at the school. Smith credited Franklin for putting Penn State back on the map. Smith also said Franklin was able to address the team Sunday, which was an emotional moment. 

Smith spoke on his new role, saying he was proud to have played at Penn State under Joe Paterno and to have coached under Franklin. “I love this place. I bleed Blue and White,” Smith added. 

Though the end of Franklin’s tenure was disappointing, living up to Franklin’s accomplishments could prove difficult. Franklin posted a 104-45 record in 12 seasons at Penn State. That record was tainted by struggles in big games, especially against Michigan and Ohio State. While those struggles weren’t enough for Franklin to lose his job in years past, Penn State entered the season No. 2 in the nation. This was supposed to be the year they overcame those issues. 

Despite that, it’s tough to ignore a .698 winning percentage, even if it came with some warts. 

In his statement Monday, Kraft made it clear he expects Penn State to be the best team in the nation. Franklin got them close to that status a few times, but couldn’t push the Nittany Lions over that hump. 

Whoever the team hires next — whether it’s Smith or someone currently outside the organization — expectations will be sky high. And, as Kraft showed over the weekend, no amount of money will prevent Penn State from making a move if the next man up can’t get the job done.