Why 2025 Is Finally the Year For Penn State Football To Break Through

If Penn State is ever going to win a National Championship, here is what they have to do. No fluff, just the real steps, with all their strengths, their schedule, and the big “don’t screw this up” moments. Can Penn State get the job done?

1. Ride the Core Like It Owes You Money!

Quarter Drew Allar is back. This is his last rodeo. The dude’s got the experience, and if he’s not slinging lasers and reading defenses like a psychic by now, then what even are we doing? New OC Andy Kotelnicki runs a pro-style offense. Then there is Nicholas Singleton and Kayton Allen in the backfield, which is honestly just unfair. Singleton’s ripping off 6.4 yards a pop, Allen’s at 5.0. If defenses load the box, Allar will go over the top. If they drop back good luck catching Singleton.

Oh, and the defense brought in Jim Knowles, who has a reputation for turning fronts nasty. Dennis-Sutton, DeLuca, and UNC transfer Amare Campbell? That is a Big Ten headache waiting to happen.

2. Don’t Nap Through September!

Early cupcakes like Nevada. They should blow them out, but must not get cocky or burnt out. The real fireworks start with Oregon rolling into Beaver Stadium in late September. It would have “White Out,” big-game vibes, and ESPN slobbering all over it. Win there, and suddenly you’re in the CFP conversation. But the big monster is that trip to Ohio State in November. Columbus is where dreams go to die, but if they pull it off, Penn State’s got the keys to the Big Ten.

3. Big Ten Or Bust!

Vegas puts them behind OSU and Oregon, but not by much. Beat one of those guys, and you are golden. Beat both and start practicing your confetti dance. Even if they split, there is a shot at the playoffs if the rest of the schedule holds up.

4. No More Semifinal Meltdown!

Remember that Orange Bowl collapse? Yeah, everyone does. Allar and all of Penn State have to learn from that late pick. They must not play hero ball in crunch time. The offseason should be all about clock management, two-minute drills, and not losing your head when it counts.

5. Go Nuclear In the CFP!

Penn State’s offense can’t just be Allar chucking it. They need balance. Feed Singleton and let Allar cook when it is there. The defense must get after the QB, force some turnovers, and play physically. It is also important for special teams to pull out all the stops for the Nittany Lions to reach their full potential.

6. Don’t Overthink It:  Just Win Baby?

Allar must be a sniper, and not commit dumb turnovers. They must keep the run game rolling to chew the clock, and let the defense punch people in the mouth. If they can finally take down Oregon and Ohio State, there is no one left to doubt them.

Bottom Line!

Preseason rankings have them in the top 5. Head Coach James Franklin is entering year 12. It is now or never. The team’s stacked, defense is beefed up, and they’re not ducking anyone on the schedule. If they stay healthy and don’t trip over their shoelaces in the playoffs, Penn State could be lifting that trophy for the first time since the ‘80s. And honestly? It’s about damn time.