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James Franklin Announces Penn State Star Abdul Carter's Status For Orange Bowl

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Gould | Last updated Jan 8, 2025 10:18 AM ET

James Franklin is still waiting to see if he'll have Abdul Carter available for the Orange Bowl.

Penn State's star defensive end exited last week's Fiesta Bowl victory over Boise State. The junior has missed practice, but Carter sparked speculation of a return with a cryptic Star Wars-themed social media post on Monday night.

During Wednesday's joint media session with Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman, Franklin told reporters that Carter's status remains uncertain for Thursday night. However, he's hopeful the All-American can play against the Fighting Irish in the CFP semifinal matchup.

"We anticipate Abdul playing," Franklin said, per ESPN's Pete Thamel. "He's doing everything he possibly can to play….but it'll be a game-time decision. And we'll see."

A dominant force in Penn State's defense, Carter has tallied 11 sacks, two forced fumbles, and 22 tackles for losses this season. He's helped the Nittany Lions allow 15.8 points per game and the sixth-fewest yards per game (288.8) among all FBS teams.

After the CFP, Carter could end his collegiate career and declare for the 2025 NFL draft. ESPN ranks him as its No. 1 prospect from this year's class.

STATE COLLEGE, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 02: Abdul Carter #11 of the Penn State Nittany Lions celebrates after sacking Will Howard #18 of the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second quarter at Beaver Stadium on November 02, 2024 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)Scott Taetsch/Getty Images

The Nittany Lions hope Carter will first take them to the National Championship Game. Per State College's Seth Engle, defensive coordinator Tom Allen said the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year is "doing everything he can" to play in the Orange Bowl.

Carter's edge-rushing presence will make it easier for Allen to scheme for a Notre Dame team averaging 39.4 points per game.

"Anytime you got a guy that is kind of like an eraser, that's pretty special," Allen said. "You kind of plug him into places, you put him in different positions. It's fun to be able to try to create different ways to create issues for the offense. But sometimes the simplest thing to do is just let him go rush the quarterback. Don't make it too complicated."

The semifinal showdown between Penn State and Notre Dame starts Thursday at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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