In a highly anticipated College Football Playoff semifinal, Penn State faced off against No. 5 Notre Dame in a game that lived up to its billing. Both storied programs, criticized for decades for their inability to secure a national title, fought fiercely, but it was Notre Dame that emerged victorious with a 41-yard game-winning field goal by Micah Jeter. This nail-biting 41-38 loss meant Penn State would not advance to the National Championship game, a hard pill to swallow for a team eager to make the leap from good to great.
Drew Allar’s Struggles Against Notre Dame
Drew Allar entered the semifinal with high expectations after a strong performance against Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl, where he threw for 171 yards and three touchdowns. However, the junior quarterback struggled against Notre Dame’s formidable defense, completing just 12 of 23 passes for 135 yards and throwing a critical interception in the final minute. This turnover set up the game-winning field goal for Notre Dame, a heartbreaker for Penn State fans.
Despite the disappointing end, Allar’s talent is undeniable. Set to return for his senior year, he’s already receiving first-round hype for the NFL Draft. However, his inconsistency, particularly in high-stakes games, remains a concern. If he can refine his accuracy, Allar could elevate both his game and the entire Penn State program.
Wide Receiver Woes Exposed
Throughout the season, Penn State’s wide receiver corps was a glaring weakness, and this issue was magnified against Notre Dame. The unit failed to record a single reception, with their only contribution being a lateral that resulted in negative yards. This lack of a dynamic playmaker on the outside severely limited Penn State’s passing attack, despite having an elite running game.
While tight end Tyler Warren shined as the best in the nation, the wideouts, including junior Harrison Wallace III, failed to step up when it mattered most. Addressing this deficiency will be crucial for Penn State’s offense to reach its full potential in 2025.
James Franklin’s Legacy in Question
Head coach James Franklin has consistently brought Penn State to the national stage, but his record against top-tier teams remains a point of contention. With a 4-20 record against top-ten opponents and just one win against the top five, critics question whether Franklin can lead Penn State to a national title.
Despite the disappointment, Franklin’s tenure has been marked by significant successes, including multiple top-ten finishes and a consistent presence in the College Football Playoff conversation. While some fans call for a coaching change, Franklin’s ability to attract top talent and maintain competitive seasons suggests he remains the right leader for the program.
Looking Ahead
As Penn State reflects on this season, the focus will shift to building on their successes and addressing their shortcomings. With Allar returning and a promising roster, the potential for greatness is within reach. However, to make the leap, Penn State must overcome their struggles in big games, find a reliable wide receiver, and continue to trust in Franklin’s vision for the program.
