2024 SEASON-IN-REVIEW

Record: 13-3, Loss vs. Notre Dame in College Football Playoff Semifinals (27-24)

It was the best year Penn State has had under James Franklin in 2024. The Nittany Lions displayed an elite defense, the best rushing attack in the nation, and a stud under center. Add all of this up and Penn State won in spite of Franklin. The team made a run to the CFP semifinals for the first time. Now, the Nittany Lions enter as National Championship contenders.

OFFENSE: Is the RB Duo Tops in America?

There is a lot to like about the offense for Penn State this season and it begins with the two-headed monster in the backfield.

The duo of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen was among the best in the nation last year. Both announced shortly after the season that they would be returning in 2025. Allen led the way with 1,108 yards and eight touchdowns while Singleton has scored 32 touchdowns in three years.

This duo of backs will work behind another elite line. The left side is as good as any in the Big Ten with All-Conference caliber guard Olaivavega Ioane and tackle Drew Shelton. Nick Dawkins is one of the best centers in the nation while Wisconsin transfer Nolan Rucci takes over at right guard.

We have yet to even mention the most important position on the field. Drew Allar attempted to push the ball down the field more in 2024. This led to some ill-intentioned throws but that can be cleaned up with another year of experience. Allar has all of the physical tools and intangibles needed to be among the best quarterbacks in the country.

DEFENSE: Knowles Takes Over Strong Group

Jim Knowles came over from Ohio State to become the new defensive coordinator. Abdul Carter might be gone but Penn State has high hopes for this unit once again. In typical Nittany-Lion fashion, it begins with the linebackers.

Amare Campbell built a reputation as a hard hitter at North Carolina. He totaled 76 tackles and 6.5 sacks last season. He will become the leader in the middle, along with Anthony Speca.

Dani Dennis-Sutton is an All-American caliber player who will lead the defense. Zuriah Fisher and Enai White are among contenders to replace Carter on the edge. Alonzo Ford is a transfer on the interior who missed the 2023 season with an injury. He will be placed to Zane Durant, who is a major breakout candidate.

AJ Harris, forner Georgia standout, will shut down one side of the field while the other side is up for grabs. It looks as though Elliot Washington II will emerge.

Dejuan Lane will be a candidate to take on a major role at safety while Zion Tracy is another breakout candidate after getting his feet wet last season.

2025 PENN STATE FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

• Saturday, Aug. 30: vs. Nevada
• Saturday, Sept. 6: vs. FIU
• Saturday, Sept. 13: vs. Villanova
• Saturday, Sept. 27: vs. Oregon
• Saturday, Oct. 4: at UCLA
• Saturday, Oct. 11: vs. Northwestern
• Saturday, Oct. 18: at Iowa
• Saturday, Nov. 1: at Ohio State
• Saturday, Nov. 8: vs. Indiana
• Saturday, Nov. 15: at Michigan State
• Saturday, Nov. 22: vs. Nebraska
• Saturday, Nov. 29: at Rutgers