As the Penn State Nittany Lions prepare for their highly anticipated clash with the Ohio State Buckeyes, they’re hoping star quarterback Drew Allar will be able to lead the team on Saturday.
Allar exited last weekend’s game against Wisconsin with a lower-body injury and did not return, sparking concern about his availability for one of the season’s biggest matchups.
Currently ranked No. 3 in the AP poll, Penn State faces No. 4 Ohio State in what is expected to be a crucial test for both teams’ College Football Playoff aspirations.
Allar’s status remains uncertain, and head coach James Franklin acknowledged that the decision on his starting quarterback may not come until game time.
“It’s too early to tell at this point… But he’s played enough football that I think that decision will go all the way up to game time,” Franklin said. “I do think from a practice perspective, no matter where we’re at, we’re going to have to get both of those guys reps.
“We’re going to have to have both guys ready. And, you could make the argument all three guys ready, which is challenging to do in a game week.”
In Allar’s absence, backup Beau Pribula stepped in admirably against Wisconsin, completing 11 of 13 passes for 98 yards and a touchdown, and adding 28 rushing yards.
Pribula has shown versatility as a running option in Penn State’s offensive scheme, giving Franklin confidence should he be called on again.
However, Allar’s impact this season has been critical. The former top recruit has evolved into one of the Big Ten’s premier quarterbacks, completing over 71% of his passes and tallying 1,640 yards with 15 touchdowns and just four interceptions.
This season holds particular significance for Franklin, who has yet to lead Penn State to the College Football Playoff.
A victory over Ohio State would almost certainly secure a spot in the expanded 12-team field, marking a major milestone for the program.
Even with a loss, Penn State could potentially reach the playoff, but a win would boost their resume considerably.
For Franklin, a victory over Ohio State is about more than playoff positioning; it would also give Penn State the kind of signature win that has eluded them in recent seasons.
The Buckeyes have shown some vulnerabilities, particularly in their recent narrow win against Nebraska, which Penn State hopes to exploit.
However, without Allar, that task becomes substantially tougher.
As Saturday approaches, Franklin and his staff will be watching their quarterback closely, doing all they can to get him back on the field.
When push comes to shove, do you think we’ll see Allar out on the field this Saturday?
Assuming he’s somewhat healthy, do you give Penn State a shot at pulling off the upset???