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The Penn State Nittany Lions are poised to build upon a remarkable 2024 season that saw them advance to the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinals. Under the leadership of quarterback Drew Allar, who has announced his return for the 2025 season, the team aims to overcome previous hurdles and solidify its status among college football’s elite.
Despite a strong 13-3 record in 2024, the Nittany Lions faced challenges against top-tier opponents, notably falling to Notre Dame in the CFP semifinal. This loss highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in high-pressure situations. Head coach James Franklin, with a 1-18 record against AP Top 5 teams, faces scrutiny and the pressing need to develop strategies that can secure victories in critical matchups.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Penn State retains a strong core, including Allar and key running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, However, the team must address significant departures, such as tight end Tyler Warren and defensive standouts Adisa Isaac and Abdul Carter. To remain competitive, the Nittany Lions must enhance their recruiting efforts and effectively utilize the transfer portal to fill these critical gaps. The expanded 12-team CFP format offers a promising opportunity for Penn State to secure a playoff berth, provided they can navigate the increasingly competitive Big Ten landscape.
The 2024 season brought Penn State tantalizingly close to elite status. With a strong roster, led by quarterback Drew Allar and a formidable defense, the Nittany Lions showcased their ability to compete with top programs. However, their Achilles’ heel remained consistent: an inability to defeat elite teams in high-stakes matchups.
James Franklin, now 1-18 against AP Top 5 opponents, continues to face scrutiny. The losses to Ohio State and Oregon underscored a recurring issue: struggles in adapting to high-pressure situations. While the team showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in its near-victory over Oregon in the playoffs, the inability to deliver during crucial moments has become a defining narrative.
Penn State’s 2025 outlook is both promising and daunting. The team retains much of its core talent but must address significant departures:
Tyler Warren: A dynamic playmaker, Warren’s absence leaves a gaping hole in the receiving corps. Historically, wide receiver depth has been a weakness for Penn State, and replacing Warren’s production will be critical.
Adisa Isaac and Abdul Carter: Defensive standouts who were instrumental in Penn State’s 2024 success are either NFL-bound or undecided about their future. The loss of these players could significantly impact the pass rush and overall defensive strength.
Despite these challenges, Penn State boasts an experienced quarterback in Drew Allar, who showed remarkable improvement under Andy Kotelnicki’s offensive scheme. The return of running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen ensures that the team’s ground game remains a formidable asset.
One of Penn State’s critical areas for growth is recruiting and leveraging the transfer portal. While programs like Ohio State, Georgia, and Oregon consistently secure top-five recruiting classes, Penn State has yet to reach that echelon.
The Big Ten’s expansion—including the addition of Pac-12 powerhouses like Oregon—adds another layer of competition. To remain competitive, Penn State must:
Target Elite Recruits: Strengthen its ability to attract top-tier talent, particularly at wide receiver and defensive positions.
Maximize the Transfer Portal: Penn State’s recent efforts in the portal have been underwhelming. Adopting an aggressive approach to fill gaps in the roster could yield immediate dividends.
James Franklin’s tenure has been defined by consistent success against mid-tier opponents but persistent struggles against elite teams. If Penn State is to transition from a CFP contender to a national championship-caliber program, Franklin must address several key areas:
Game Planning for Big Games: Developing more dynamic strategies for top-tier opponents, especially in critical moments.
Adapting In-Game Tactics: Penn State’s inability to adjust mid-game has been costly. Improved situational awareness and flexibility are essential.
Leveraging Assistant Coaches: Delegating effectively to coordinators like Kotelnicki could bring fresh perspectives and innovation.
Despite the challenges, Penn State has a roadmap to success:
Drew Allar’s continued development is a cornerstone for the team’s success. His experience and chemistry with Singleton and Allen provide a stable offensive foundation. Meanwhile, the secondary remains a defensive strength, even with potential losses in the front seven.
The new 12-team playoff format gives Penn State more breathing room. Even with losses to Ohio State and Oregon, the Nittany Lions could secure a playoff berth by finishing strong within the Big Ten.
Emerging players from recent recruiting classes have the potential to fill gaps left by departing stars. The development of wide receivers and defensive linemen will be especially critical.
For Penn State, the 2025 season represents a defining moment. The program must capitalize on its strengths while addressing longstanding weaknesses. Key priorities include:
Enhancing Recruitment: Targeting top talent and improving player development pipelines.
Strategic Use of the Transfer Portal: Securing high-impact transfers to address immediate needs.
Defeating Elite Teams: Finally overcoming the Ohio State and Oregon hurdle to solidify the program’s reputation.
Modernizing Approaches: Adapting to the evolving landscape of college football, particularly as the Big Ten grows more competitive.
Penn State fans, this is your moment to rally behind the Nittany Lions! Stay connected with all things Penn State football by subscribing to the GSMC Dead Ball Podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube at the GSMC Sports Network.
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