This was supposed to be the year for Penn State football. With star recruits like Nicholas Singleton, Kaytron Allen, and Abdul Carter leading the charge, the Nittany Lions had a golden opportunity in the 2022 season. Their path to the College Football Playoff seemed relatively smooth, facing opponents like SMU and Boise State, which were considered smaller-brand schools.
Penn State started strong, dominating their initial matchups with an average margin of victory of 22.5 points. When they faced a formidable opponent like Notre Dame, the Nittany Lions showed promise, taking an early 10-0 lead. Despite Notre Dame’s comeback, Penn State fought back in the fourth quarter with a 14-0 run to regain momentum. Unfortunately, a late interception by Drew Allar, a standout from the 2022 class, followed by a crucial field goal from Notre Dame, dashed Penn State’s hopes of a championship run.
Despite two playoff victories, Penn State stumbled when it counted most, losing critical games against Ohio State, Oregon, and Notre Dame. The team’s championship aspirations for this season were thwarted, leaving fans disappointed.
Looking ahead, Penn State faces challenges. The departure of key players like Abdul Carter and Tyler Warren, who was a linchpin of the offense, leaves big shoes to fill. Additionally, there are concerns about the team’s recruiting situation, as Penn State’s 2025 class ranked lower than previous years, signaling a potential decline in Franklin’s once-vaunted recruiting prowess.
The offensive lineup faces a talent deficit, especially at the wide receiver position, which will be further exacerbated by Warren’s exit. With uncertainties surrounding the future of Singleton and Allen, Penn State’s offensive strategy hangs in the balance.
In a competitive Big Ten landscape, powerhouse teams like Ohio State and Oregon loom large. While the expanded playoff format offers some hope, Franklin’s chances of securing a conference or national title appear to have passed. The window for championship success seems to have closed, signaling a challenging road ahead for the Nittany Lions.
