Penn State’s 2024 Season: A Step Toward Greatness
Penn State’s 2024 football season was a triumph, even without claiming the ultimate prize. Their Orange Bowl appearance, which doubled as a College Football Playoff (CFP) Semi-Final, demonstrated their position among college football’s elite and underscored their readiness to contend for a national title. The expanded twelve-team playoff format aimed to crown a definitive national champion, and by those standards, Penn State emerged as a program poised for sustained success.
Drew Allar’s Development
Drew Allar’s progression as a quarterback was a cornerstone of Penn State’s 13–3 season. Despite occasional errors, his leadership brought the Nittany Lions within striking distance of a national championship. Allar set Penn State records for passing completion percentage and efficiency, ranked fifth in total passing yards, and third in touchdown passes. His ability to lead the team and deliver under pressure marks him as one of the top quarterbacks in program history. Encouragingly, Allar is expected to return for another season, offering hope for even greater achievements in 2025.
James Franklin’s Impact
Head coach James Franklin has restored Penn State to the prominence it enjoyed during the Joe Paterno era. Under Franklin’s leadership, the Nittany Lions have become one of the nation’s premier programs. Early indications suggest that much of the roster that narrowly missed a championship berth will return for the 2025 season, solidifying the foundation for continued success.
A Championship-Caliber Core
While many players are weighing their NFL Draft prospects, only two key contributors—safety Kevin Winston Jr. and linebacker Abdul Carter—have officially declared their departure. The return of most of the roster ensures Penn State will retain the talent and chemistry needed to make another title run. The team’s nucleus remains intact, giving Allar and the coaching staff the tools to build on this season’s accomplishments.
Looking Ahead
As Penn State eyes the 2025 season, optimism abounds. Drew Allar will lead a team capable of competing at the highest level, with the expanded CFP format offering even more opportunities for glory. Rivalries with teams like Notre Dame promise thrilling showdowns in the years to come, adding to the Nittany Lions’ growing legacy.
The 2024 season was more than a stepping stone—it was proof that Penn State football is a true contender for national supremacy.