The last decade Paterno was there was full of controversy and people wanting him out. Even after 2005 & 2008 people wanted him out believing he should go out on a high note. The entre offensive staff (especially Jay) was bashed constantly. As was the fact Penn State only had a handful of coaches that were active recruiters.
Donovan was the scapegoat but most fans love the Moorhead hire (I don't) so he's being praised for that. Most fans also wrongly blamed Hand for the OL issues so him leaving for Auburn wasn't seen as a a negative. Limegrover was a solid pick-up I have to admit. Shoop didn't go over well but Shoop took the heat for that more than Franklin.
The criticism of Franklin involving Hack has been very well-deserved. Most fans go back to Franklin not having "his type of QB" so they're giving him a pass for that and making McSorley out to be the next Johnny Football only with class. The reality is--he had an elite QB and failed to build an offense around him. I'll never understand why Zembiec didn't flip.
The poor close to this class shouldn't be ignored but it will be as people quickly turn their attention to the 2017 class which is loaded in the region.
Personally, I don't think Franklin's in over his head. He was the best possible hire at the time it was made. It may not work out but they hired the right guy. 2015-2016 were always going to be the worst years once the sanctions were reduced. If Penn State goes 6-6 next year I'm content (not happy--content)...then in 2017 we need to start seeing an rise. Even if that's only 8 wins in 2017.