Penn State James Franklin Addresses National Media's High Expectations

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gray Deyo | Last updated Jul 24, 2025 12:15 PM ET

Ranked as the No.1 preseason team in the country by some, and a top-five team by many, Penn State has some high expectations going into the 2025 season. Here is what head coach of the Nittany Lions, James Franklin, had to say on the great expectations set by the national media.

"We've earned that. You know, based on what we have been able to do, and the people we have coming back. There is a lot of people excited on a national level talking about us. But the reality is when it comes to The Lasch Football Building or when it comes to local, these are always the expectations."

Drew Allar, who many thought would be a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, is returning for his senior season. He has a large part to do with the high expectations for Penn State this year. Along with Allar's return, over 70% of the team's offensive production from last season will be returning.

"He does things the right way, and I couldn't be more proud of him."

James Franklin had high praise for @PennStateFball QB Drew Allar #B1GFootball pic.twitter.com/LQ4FziWfx5
— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) July 23, 2025

Franklin also said the following regarding the media's expectations.

"Let's also be honest. It's a great conversation, but who really cares about preseason rankings? They mean nothing. It's a good argument to have and everybody has fun with it, but the only rankings that matter are the ones at the end of the season. And that's what we are concerned about."

There is good reason for the hype train behind Penn State and their incoming 2025 campaign. On paper, this is maybe the most talented team Franklin has coached. And with the college football season rapidly approaching, it will soon be determined if the expectations the national media have set for Penn State can be lived up to.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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