Penn State’s recent struggles in big games have stirred up a lot of debate among fans and analysts. The Nittany Lions, led by head coach James Franklin, just suffered another tough loss—this time to Oregon in a double-overtime heartbreaker, 30-24.
This defeat has sparked more questions about whether Franklin or starting quarterback Drew Allar should take the blame for the team coming up short against top-tier opponents. So, what’s really going on with Penn State’s big-game woes?
Penn State’s Big-Game Struggles
James Franklin’s time at Penn State has been shadowed by a rough record against AP Top 10 teams. After the Oregon loss, Franklin’s record is now a bleak 4-21 in those matchups.
Even worse, he’s just 1-18 against Big Ten teams ranked in the top 10. For a program that wants to be nationally relevant, it’s not a pretty picture.
The Drew Allar Dilemma
Drew Allar came in with big expectations as a former five-star recruit. By the middle of his third season as a starter, his record against top 10 teams is just 1-6.
In these high-stakes games, Allar’s completed only 48.2% of his passes and averages just 153.7 passing yards per game. It’s tough to watch a talented quarterback struggle to deliver in the moments that count most.
Expert Insights
CBS Sports’ College Football Insiders checked in with sources from both college and NFL circles to get a better read on Penn State’s situation. Most agree that while both Franklin and Allar share some responsibility, the problems run deeper.
The Nittany Lions just can’t seem to execute under pressure, and there are some real questions about their overall strategy and tactics.
Strategic and Tactical Shortcomings
Plenty of experts are pointing fingers at Penn State’s game planning and how they adjust during games. The schemes on both sides of the ball are often called too predictable, which lets elite opponents pounce on their weaknesses.
There’s also been some head-scratching decision-making in big moments, and those mistakes have cost the team dearly in close games.
Improving Game Preparation
One area that’s got to change is how Penn State prepares for these big games. They need to come up with more flexible and creative game plans—something that actually counters what top opponents do best.
That means better scouting, sharper analysis, and maybe even a willingness to take some risks with their strategy.
Enhancing In-Game Decision Making
How Franklin and his staff handle the flow of the game is another sticking point. They have to be quicker and bolder with adjustments—whether that’s clock management, using timeouts, or making substitutions to shake things up.
Honestly, it’s the kind of stuff that separates good teams from great ones.
The Role of Player Development
Player development can’t be overlooked here. Allar’s got the physical tools, but the mental side is just as important.
The coaching staff needs to help him build confidence and learn how to stay cool when the pressure is on. That’s easier said than done, but it’s crucial.
Building a Winning Culture
And then there’s the culture. Penn State needs to foster a mindset where players actually believe they can beat the best.
That kind of resilience and confidence doesn’t just appear overnight. It takes strong leadership, steady performance, and a relentless drive to improve—maybe even a little luck now and then, too.
Conclusion
Penn State’s big-game struggles aren’t easy to pin on just one thing. James Franklin and Drew Allar both play a part, but honestly, the issues go way deeper than that.
For more in-depth analysis and expert insights into Penn State’s struggles, you can read the full article on 247Sports.
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