Penn State’s gut-wrenching 27-24 loss to Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl College Football Playoff semifinal can be summed up in one pivotal moment: junior quarterback Drew Allar’s last-minute interception. This costly mistake set up Notre Dame’s game-winning field goal drive, solidifying a narrative that has plagued head coach James Franklin throughout his tenure—he struggles in big games. Now in his 11th year, Franklin’s record against AP top 5 teams stands at a dismal 1-15, but it’s Allar, the 20-year-old quarterback, who bears much of the blame for this defeat.
The Defining Play
Allar’s interception wasn’t just a turnover; it was a seismic shift in momentum, swinging the game 55% in Notre Dame’s favor and costing Penn State -3.2 expected points added in a narrow three-point loss. This moment will be remembered as a turning point, a play that could earn a nickname and live on in college football lore, especially if Notre Dame claims the championship. But beyond this singular error, Penn State’s downfall was a cumulative result of several critical factors. Here’s a closer look at the five biggest reasons the Nittany Lions let a 10-0 second-quarter lead slip away.
1. Failing to Capitalize Early
A 10-0 lead wasn’t enough cushion, especially after a prime scoring opportunity early in the game. Following a Riley Leonard interception, Penn State had 1st-and-goal from Notre Dame’s four-yard line but settled for a field goal. Questions surround Franklin’s conservative call on fourth down and the decision-making of offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki. Yet, the blame also falls on Allar and running back Nicholas Singleton, who failed to connect on a potential walk-in touchdown. This four-point swing loomed large in a game decided by just three points.
A bad pass by Drew Allar leads to a drop by Nicholas Singleton.pic.twitter.com/zWPO2TOvQH
— Pick 6 Pack (@Pick6PackFB) January 10, 2025
2. Wide Receiver Woes
Penn State’s wide receivers have consistently underperformed against top competition. In the Orange Bowl, no wide receiver caught a pass, reminiscent of their struggles against Ohio State earlier in the season. Allar’s issues are partly a symptom of this wider problem. Without reliable targets, Penn State’s offense leaned heavily on misdirection and plays designed for tight ends and running backs—tactics that falter in high-pressure, two-minute drill situations.
3. Lack of Explosive Plays
Penn State’s inability to generate big plays in the passing game was glaring. With no wide receiver capable of starting for the other CFP teams, the Nittany Lions couldn’t stretch Notre Dame’s defense. After a strong first-half running game, Notre Dame adjusted, shutting down Penn State’s offense in the second half. The Nittany Lions’ five explosive runs contrasted sharply with their zero explosive passes, a critical shortfall in a game that demanded dynamic offensive plays.
4. Unresolved Defensive Issues
Defensively, Penn State struggled with its nickel corner position after injuries forced a reshuffle in the secondary. Notre Dame exploited this weakness, with slot receiver Jaden Greathouse posting career-high numbers. Cam Miller and Zion Tracy were unable to contain Greathouse, who made crucial catches, including a game-tying touchdown late in the fourth quarter. The secondary’s vulnerabilities were a recurring issue that Penn State failed to address adequately.
JADEN GREATHOUSE OMG
— PFF College (@PFF_College) January 10, 2025
5. Second-Half Adjustments.
Notre Dame’s offensive coordinator, Mike Denbrock, outmaneuvered Penn State’s Tom Allen in the second half. Denbrock identified mismatches and adjusted his strategy, exploiting linebacker Kobe King in the passing game and utilizing empty formations to stretch the defense. Allen’s inability to counter these moves, similar to struggles seen in the Big Ten championship, left Penn State exposed and unable to keep pace.
Get in Empty
If the Mike LB matches the RB… throw Sluggo! pic.twitter.com/PmWBbPnxCs
— Coach Dan Casey (@CoachDanCasey) January 10, 2025
Conclusion
While Allar’s interception will be the lasting image of Penn State’s Orange Bowl loss, the defeat was a result of multiple failings. From missed opportunities and offensive stagnation to defensive lapses and coaching missteps, the Nittany Lions fell short in a game that could have propelled them to a national championship. As the program reflects on this painful loss, the focus must shift to addressing these systemic issues to avoid similar heartbreaks in the future.
