Penn State’s returning talent positions the team as a national title contender this season. Quarterback Drew Allar leads a roster that includes running backs Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton, along with other key players.
CBS Sports’ Brandon Marcello sees Penn State’s ceiling rising as it attempts to clear the national championship hurdle.
“Penn State has taken a page from Big Ten rivals Michigan and Ohio State, successfully convincing NFL-bound players to stay on campus and pursue a national title this fall. The Wolverines did it in 2023, the Buckeyes followed it up with a $20 million NIL investment in their players in 2024, and now Penn State is following a similar blueprint to try to deliver the Big Ten a third straight national title,” wrote Marcello.
The hiring of Knowles strengthens the defensive coaching staff, though questions remain about the motivation behind the move.
The Nittany Lions need to bounce back after their Orange Bowl loss to Notre Dame in January.
Head coach James Franklin has captured one Big Ten championship during his tenure but is still pursuing his first national title. This year’s squad could be his most complete team. While Ohio State added transfer quarterback Will Howard, Penn State benefits from Allar’s experience as he makes what could be his final championship run with the program.
The team’s potential will be tested when the season begins.
