Penn State Football Poised for Championship Run
Nittany Lions Build on Playoff Appearance with Key Retention
State College, PA – The Penn State Nittany Lions are entering the 2025-26 football season with heightened expectations, fueled by a core of returning talent and strategic additions through the transfer portal. After a strong showing, the team aims to elevate its performance and contend for a national title.
Allar’s Return Fuels Title Hopes
A pivotal moment for the program came with the decision of quarterback Drew Allar to forgo the NFL draft and return for another season. According to reports, Allar had the potential to be a top pick in the recent draft, particularly given a relatively weak quarterback class. His commitment significantly boosts Penn State’s chances.
“In a down year for quarterbacks, Allar could have been one of the top players drafted had he turned pro after his junior season. His decision to play another year at Penn State cemented the Nittany Lions as a national title contender and the potential preseason Big Ten favorite.”
—The Athletic
This retention strategy reflects a broader trend within the program, as head coach James Franklin has successfully convinced key players to remain with the Nittany Lions despite the increasing opportunities presented by the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. According to a study by the NCAA, over 2,500 football players entered the transfer portal during the 2023-2024 season, making player retention a significant challenge for programs nationwide. (NCAA.org)
Franklin’s Roster Management
Maintaining a competitive roster in the current college football landscape is increasingly difficult. The ability of Franklin to keep his top players engaged and committed is a testament to his coaching staff and the program’s overall environment. Penn State’s success will likely hinge on continuing this trend.
The Nittany Lions are positioned to capitalize on their stability and talent, aiming to build upon last year’s playoff appearance and establish themselves as a dominant force in the Big Ten and college football as a whole. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting one for Penn State fans.
