James Franklin tells the CFB world exactly what Penn State QB Drew Allar will need to do in order to take his game to an elite level

“It’s his athleticism, his movements. He’s 6-5, was about 242 pounds. He’s now 232 pounds. I think the old game of football has changed. The days of the pro style quarterback who can just stand there and sling it around, that doesn’t exist anymore. A guy who is going to be able to get one or two first downs a game, doesn’t have to be Lamar (Jackson). I’m not saying that, but he will be able to threaten people with his movements, his ability to extend plays. 

He’s always been a great decision maker in terms of touchdown to interception ratio. What we had to do was go out and get a few more wideouts and continue to develop the ones we had, guys who are going to make more consistent plays for him on the outside.”

We did see a bit of an improvement from Allar in 2025 as a rusher, going from 206 to 304 yards, and four to six touchdowns. However, he also played in more games. Overall athleticism will never be a massive part of Allar’s game, but being more effective in that area would be a nice step. 

At the core of the development talk, whether Coach Franklin wants to admit it or not, Allar just needs to become a more consistent version of himself on a snap to snap perspective. Over the last two offseasons, we have constantly been hearing about everything that Allar doesn’t have, and completely ignoring the dynamic duo in the backfield, a top-15 selection at tight end, and a tremendous offensive line. 

The wide receiver room wasn’t even as bad during that stretch as some people act like, but most won’t want to hear that. Regardless, Penn State put a lot of resources into improving that wide receiver group this offseason, grabbing Trebor Pena (Syracuse), Kyron Hudson (USC), and Devonte Ross (Troy) via the transfer portal. Between those three, they combined for 198 receptions for 2,446 yards and 23 touchdowns last season. 

The excuses are almost out for Allar now, who has a tremendous overall team around him heading into the season. If he is able to realize his potential, it’s unlikely that the secret sauce is athleticism. He just needs to become a more anticipatory, and consistent passer.