Penn State's Terry Smith wants to be considered for the permanent role originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here. Interim coach Terry Smith says he wants the permanent job at Penn State, and the longtime assistant may soon get his formal chance to make that case.

As interim coach Terry Smith did his on-field interview, several players clustered behind him holding signs that read, "Hire Terry Smith." Moments earlier, Smith walked to midfield to shake hands with Matt Rhule -- the coach who gave him his first FBS opportunity at Temple more than a decade ago.

Smith honored the late Penn State head coach by wearing a button commemorating Paterno's 409 career victories.

Penn State defeated Nebraska 37-10, continuing a late-season resurgence under interim coach Terry Smith. Fans and players showed strong support for Smith, who has led the team since James Franklin was fired. Running back Kaytron Allen set a school rushing record during the dominant performance against Nebraska.

Allen surpassed Evan Royster for the most rushing yards in Penn State history, while Smith received massive support from his team to become the program's next head coach after the 37-10 win.

Former Penn State quarterback Michael Robinson backs Smith's candidacy to become the Nittany Lions' next head coach.

Penn State won its second straight game on Saturday night, throttling Nebraska in an impressive 37-10 win at Beaver Stadium. The Nittany Lions have improved to 5-6 on the season and will have a chance to become bowl eligible next week, as the team is playing its best football under interim head coach Terry Smith.