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  • Penn State’s polarizing QB Drew Allar puts critics on mute and keeps winning games

    Penn State’s polarizing QB Drew Allar puts critics on mute and keeps winning games


    SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Even when Penn State quarterback Drew Allar gets some praise, it’s usually a backhanded compliment.

    They say he’s a good game manager and stays within himself, or that he doesn’t try to do too much. They mention he might not be flashy, but he gives the team a chance to win.

    And here’s the thing about Penn State since Allar stepped under center: The Nittany Lions have won games. A lot of them. Sometimes that’s hard to remember considering the lukewarm reception he often gets from fans.

    “I get it — we have a really passionate fan base and they’re a huge part of our success,” Allar said Sunday at College Football Playoff quarterfinals media day. “For us, we always want to go out there every drive and end with a touchdown, so when we don’t do that, there’s nobody more frustrated than us.”

    The polarizing Allar is having a solid season by just about any standard, completing more than 68% of his passes for 3,021 yards, 21 touchdowns and seven interceptions while leading the sixth-seeded Nittany Lions to a 12-2 record and a spot in the Fiesta Bowl for Tuesday’s game against No. 3 seed Boise State.

    But in a college football world filled with high-scoring, explosive offenses, Allar’s no-frills performances often are the object of ire. The Penn State offense is a run-first bunch, led by the talented combo of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen.

    “If we had a nickel for every time there was a Monday morning quarterback saying some BS stuff, we’d all be pretty rich,” offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki said. “I think part of being a quarterback, especially at Penn State but really anywhere, is how you respond to and manage criticism.”

    The 20-year-old Allar has made strides in that department after a trying 2023 season that finished with a 10-3 record. He says that’s largely because once fall camp started back in August, he logged off the social media platform X.

    Allar said negative online experiences wore on him last year, and his phone number was leaked a few times, which added to the stress. He finally realized that controlling outside narratives was impossible, so the best course of action was to eliminate a needless distraction.

    “I’ve been more mentally free, as much as that sounds crazy,” Allar said. “I think that’s been a huge difference for me this year.”

    The biggest criticism of Allar — and really Penn State as a whole during the 11-year James Franklin era — is that he isn’t capable of winning the big games. He’s 0-2 against rival Ohio State and threw a late interception against Oregon in the Big Ten title game earlier this month, which sealed the Ducks’ 45-37 victory.

    He wasn’t great in the CFP’s first round, either, completing just 13 of 22 passes for 127 yards as Penn State muscled past SMU 38-10 on a cold, blustery day to advance to the Fiesta Bowl. But the quarterback is confident a better performance — aided by a game that will be played in comfortable temperatures in a domed stadium — is coming.

    “For me, I just have to execute those (easy) throws early in the game and get our guys into rhythm,” Allar said. “Get them involved early as much as I can and that allows us to stay on the field longer, call more plays and open up our offense more. That will help us a ton, building the momentum throughout the game.”

    Allar might be a favorite punching bag for a section of the Penn State fan base, but that’s not the case in his own locker room. Star tight end Tyler Warren praised his quarterback’s ability to avoid sacks, saying that the 6-foot-5, 238-pounder brings a toughness that resonates with teammates.

    “He’s a football player,” Warren said. “He plays quarterback, but when you watch him play and the energy he brings and the way he runs the ball, he’s just a football player and that fires up our offense.”

    Now Allar and Penn State have a chance to silence critics who say that the Nittany Lions don’t show up in big games.

    Not that he’s worried about what other people think.

    “I think it’s a skill at the end of the day — blocking out the outside noise,” Allar said. “Focusing on you and the process and being honest with yourself, both good and bad.”

    ___

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    Penn State’s quarterback Drew Allar has been making headlines this season as he continues to lead his team to victory after victory. Despite facing criticism and skepticism from some, Allar has proven time and time again that he has what it takes to succeed on the field.

    Allar’s impressive performances have silenced his critics and earned him the respect of fans and analysts alike. His ability to stay composed under pressure, make smart decisions, and deliver accurate passes has been a key factor in Penn State’s success this season.

    With each win, Allar is solidifying his place as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation and proving that he has the talent and determination to lead his team to greatness. As Penn State continues to climb the rankings and make a push for the playoffs, Allar’s leadership and skill will be crucial to their success.

    So to all the doubters and naysayers, Drew Allar has a simple message: watch me continue to win games and prove you wrong. Penn State’s polarizing quarterback is here to stay, and he’s not slowing down anytime soon.

    Tags:

    • Penn State football
    • Drew Allar
    • Quarterback
    • College football
    • Winning games
    • Penn State QB
    • Drew Allar highlights
    • Penn State offense
    • Big Ten football
    • College football quarterback

    #Penn #States #polarizing #Drew #Allar #puts #critics #mute #winning #games

  • Penn State, James Franklin beating Boise State can change narrative

    Penn State, James Franklin beating Boise State can change narrative






    Penn State football fans have been anxiously awaiting the matchup against Boise State this weekend, as a win could potentially change the narrative surrounding head coach James Franklin. Despite a disappointing start to the season, with losses to Iowa and Illinois, a victory against Boise State could help shift the conversation back in Penn State’s favor.

    Franklin has faced criticism in recent weeks for the team’s lackluster performance, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. However, a strong showing against Boise State could help silence the doubters and prove that the Nittany Lions are still a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten.

    Additionally, a win against Boise State could provide a much-needed confidence boost for the team as they head into the second half of the season. With tough matchups against Michigan, Michigan State, and Ohio State still on the horizon, a victory this weekend could be just what Penn State needs to turn their season around.

    So, as the Nittany Lions prepare to take on Boise State, fans are hopeful that a win could be the spark that ignites a turnaround for the team and their coach. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting game and a potential game-changer for Penn State football. #WeAre #PennStateFootball

    Tags:

    Penn State football, James Franklin, Boise State upset, college football, game analysis, sports news, NCAA football, underdog victory, key players, game changer, narrative shift

    #Penn #State #James #Franklin #beating #Boise #State #change #narrative

  • 5 defenses the Penn State star would make unstoppable

    5 defenses the Penn State star would make unstoppable


    One of the biggest reasons why the Penn State Nittany Lions are an incredibly dangerous No. 6 seed in the 12-team College Football Playoff is the elite athlete they have in the middle of their defense in Abdul Carter. He is every bit the next Micah Parsons, Paul Posluszny or LaVar Arrington. ST1X C1TY is indeed a place, and Carter is the mayor of it right now in Happy Valley. He is so utterly electrifying.

    Carter may have more important things on his mind right now than entering the 2025 NFL Draft, but it certainly beckons. Fresh off the Nittany Lions’ first-ever playoff win over SMU, Penn State has up to three more games on the horizon before this season is finished. Given that they are on the easier side of the bracket, who is to say that Carter cannot leave State College as a national champion this year?

    Although he could return to school for another season, Carter’s talent is simply too undeniable for him to stay in college for one more year. He is a lock to be a top-12 pick, possibly with an outside shot of cracking the top five. Look for him to be coming off the board in the No. 6 to No. 12 range in the upcoming draft should he declare. He is every bit a cornerstone piece to build a defense around.

    Here are five NFL teams who could be chomping at the bit to make Carter a vibrant part of their team.

    The Cleveland Browns are in a very precarious spot when it comes to the 2025 NFL Draft. They are locked to be picking inside of the top 10, but could see their draft positioning fluctuate heading into the final week of the season. While Cleveland does need an upgrade at starting quarterback, can they really afford to have another first-rounder and Deshaun Watson on the same payroll? I question that.

    Realistically speaking, I think the Browns picking inside the top five is about as high as Carter could be coming off the draft board. Obviously, the Browns would have to trade back from something like No. 3 if he was their prized jewel on the draft boards. He is a tremendous player, but I wonder if this is as seamless of a fit as it looks upon first glance. Cleveland has many other issues to solve this spring.

    If the Browns were picking at something like No. 7 overall, I can see them taking Carter with the pick.

    The New York Jets are the epitome of how to continually keep a franchise in the ground in a league driven by parity. I am not sure what the long-term plans are for Aaron Rodgers at quarterback, so I think they could look to draft his successor this spring as well. For my money, I think Gang Green goes with the best defensive player available in the 2025 NFL Draft. If available, it might be Carter.

    Right now, I feel that other Power Four stars like Mason Graham out of Michigan or potentially Mykel Williams out of Georgia might be the better fit for what they are trying to do now. However, if the Jets are on the clock at No. 8 and Carter is still available, do not overthink the room and just draft the guy. Carter has the potential to carry an NFL defense for a decade. The Jets would be lucky to have him.

    The Jets will have plenty of options to find a star in the defensive front-seven, so it could be Carter.

    If the Chicago Bears know how to do anything well, it is to draft and develop star defensive players coming out of college football. Figuring out the offensive side of the ball might as well be the moon to them, but the Bears have a proven track record of excellence on defense, particularly in the defensive front seven. Carter would be every bit the plug-and-play type of superstar for them moving forward.

    No matter who takes over for Matt Eberflus full-time should be able to have great success with Carter as part of their team. I hope for everyone on the team’s sake that Ryan Poles is gone and he takes Kevin Warren with him. Regardless, I sense Chicago may prioritize and offensive tackle to help keep Caleb Williams upright with their certain top-10 pick. Carter would be a steal for them, but I do get it.

    The Bears have a lot of holes on their roster, but I would be shocked if they do not go offensive tackle.

    We can only hope that whoever is running the Jacksonville Jaguars prioritizes defense in the 2025 NFL Draft. They could be in line for any star defensive player at any level. This might be the team that ends up taking Michigan cornerback Will Johnson or Colorado’s Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, but I would not be surprised if Jacksonville stops Carter’s slightest fall down the draft board.

    Since Jacksonville does not seem ready just yet to move on from starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence, it serves the franchise to get another cornerstone on the other side of the ball to help re-solidify the defense. Any time Jacksonville is the least bit good they have dudes on that side of the ball. Carter is the epitome of a dude. He could become one of their best players in franchise history.

    I do side with corner or defensive tackle over an edge rusher here, but beggars cannot be choosers.

    This is so obvious. The Carolina Panthers will be picking well inside of the top 10. They do not need a quarterback with Bryce Young finally playing up to standard after briefly getting benched by Dave Canales mid-season. With their new general manager Dan Morgan being a former star linebacker himself back in his playing days, it feels like it is going to be impossible for Carolina to pass on Carter.

    Anytime the Panthers have been championship-caliber in their brief history, they have had an all-timer on the defense. From the late legends of Kevin Greene and Sam Mills, to Julius Peppers, to Thomas Davis, to Luke Kuechly, this is the Panthers standard. I would hope that Morgan and company would read the message in the tea leaves to go ahead and select Carolina’s next all-time defender.

    The only thing that would not make this a picturesque fit would have to be potential draft positioning.

    Next. NFL Draft: Best first-round draft pick in each slot in history. Best first-round draft pick in each NFL Draft slot in history. dark


    1. Speed and agility: The Penn State star is known for their lightning-fast speed and quick footwork, making it nearly impossible for offensive players to keep up with them on the field.
    2. Strength and power: With a powerful build and strong physicality, the Penn State star can easily overpower opponents and dominate in one-on-one matchups.
    3. Intelligence and strategy: The Penn State star has a keen understanding of the game and knows how to anticipate the movements of their opponents, allowing them to make smart defensive plays and shut down scoring opportunities.
    4. Versatility and adaptability: Whether playing as a cornerback, safety, or linebacker, the Penn State star can excel in any defensive position and adapt to different game situations with ease.
    5. Tenacity and determination: The Penn State star never gives up on a play and always gives 100% effort on the field, making them a relentless and unstoppable force on defense.

    Tags:

    1. Penn State football
    2. College football defense
    3. Defensive strategies
    4. Penn State Nittany Lions
    5. Football star defense

    #defenses #Penn #State #star #unstoppable

  • Penn State’s James Franklin says Nick Saban should be commish

    Penn State’s James Franklin says Nick Saban should be commish


    • Heather Dinich, Senior College Football InsiderDec 29, 2024, 12:08 PM ET

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      • College football reporter
      • Joined ESPN.com in 2007
      • Graduate of Indiana University

    SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Penn State coach James Franklin on Sunday added his name to the growing list of college football voices who believe the sport needs a commissioner and thinks there’s one man right for the job.

    Speaking at media availability for the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl, Franklin said former Alabama coach Nick Saban is the “obvious choice” to navigate college football through a period of sweeping change.

    “I think one of the most important things we can do is, let’s get a commissioner of college football that is waking up every single morning and going to bed every single night making decisions that’s in the best interest of college football,” Franklin said. “I think Nick Saban would be the obvious choice if we made that decision. Now, Nick will probably call me tonight and say, ‘Don’t do this,’ but I think he’s the obvious choice, right?”

    Franklin is not alone in nominating Saban for the hypothetical job. Last week, Ole Miss coach and former Saban assistant Lane Kiffin posted on X that he would vote for Saban in that role.

    On Sunday, Franklin added that hiring a commissioner would be an important first step to “move forward and come up with some solutions” to the transfer portal and NIL, but he also didn’t hold back on offering some of his own.

    Franklin was asked about what could be done to incentivize players to stay on rosters and continue to compete through the end of the season, and he said it’s time for leaders throughout the sport to stop talking about the issues and start solving them.

    He proposed eliminating conference championship games so the season is shorter and the College Football Playoff selection committee can have a more fair comparison.

    “When you have a committee sitting in a room trying to compare apples to apples, or oranges to oranges, it’s hard to do that when not everybody’s playing under the same model,” he said. “Get rid of the conference championship game. That will shorten the season and help with the window a little bit.”

    He also suggested every conference play the same number of league games — eight or nine — and start the season a week earlier to “take some stress off of the academic calendar.”

    “God forbid we talk about academics, right?” he said. “That used to be every conversation started with academics and that’s becoming less and less. Maybe I’m old school and maybe I’m a traditionalist, but I still believe in the model. Rather than just say this is a problem, I thought I would throw out a few recommendations, but I think one of the most important things we can do is let’s get a commissioner of college football.”

    Franklin said the current leadership in college athletics, which is driven by one commissioner for each conference, isn’t working.

    “Whenever you have people that are making decisions and running college football, they’re going to be biased towards what’s best to their conference, and that’s not in the best interest of college football and the student athletes,” he said. “… If every decision we make is based on money, then we’re heading in the wrong direction.”

    Franklin’s Nittany Lions will take on Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl on Tuesday night (7:30 ET, ESPN) in the quarterfinals of the College Football Playoff.



    Penn State’s head coach James Franklin recently made headlines with his suggestion that Alabama’s Nick Saban should be the next commissioner of college football. Franklin praised Saban’s leadership abilities and success on the field, stating that he believes Saban would bring a unique perspective and strong leadership to the role of commissioner.

    Many in the college football world have responded positively to Franklin’s suggestion, citing Saban’s track record of success and his reputation as one of the most respected coaches in the game. Saban has won numerous national championships during his tenure at Alabama and has a reputation for running a disciplined and successful program.

    While Saban has not publicly commented on the idea of becoming commissioner, his name continues to be floated as a potential candidate for the role. As college football continues to evolve and face new challenges, many believe that Saban’s leadership and experience could be a valuable asset in guiding the future of the sport.

    Only time will tell if Saban will make the transition from coaching to a leadership role in college football, but one thing is for certain – his name is already being considered as a potential candidate for the job.

    Tags:

    1. Penn State football news
    2. James Franklin interview
    3. Nick Saban comments
    4. College football coaches
    5. NCAA news
    6. James Franklin Penn State
    7. Nick Saban commissioner
    8. College football leadership
    9. Big Ten conference
    10. SEC commissioner debate

    #Penn #States #James #Franklin #Nick #Saban #commish

  • 5 Class of 2025 newcomers practice with team in Arizona for Penn State’s Fiesta Bowl quarterfinal

    5 Class of 2025 newcomers practice with team in Arizona for Penn State’s Fiesta Bowl quarterfinal


    James Franklin’s 2025 recruiting class is ranked No. 15 in the nation. It features a group, particularly at wide receiver and cornerback, that could make an immediate impact for the Nittany Lions, though, next season not on Tuesday night against Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl College Football Playoff Quarterfinal. 

    While the freshman newcomers cannot see the field for Penn State with the 2024 season still underway, a few were able to join the team in Arizona for Fiesta Bowl prep, and five 2025 freshmen saw practice reps on Sunday according to BlueWhiteIllustrated.com’s Greg Pickel and other reporters who were out at the Los Angeles Angels spring training facility where the Nittany Lions are practicing. 

    Offensive linemen Owen Aliciene and Michael Troutman, tight end Brian Kortovich, wide receiver Lyrick Samuel, and walk-on kicker Matthew Parker are all early enrollees who will begin classes in January and were the five newcomers spotted at practice. 

    According to 247Sports composite recruiting rankings, Aliciene is the most highly-touted prospect of that group, a four-star from Avon, CT, and the 31st-best offensive tackle in the country. Samuel checked in just behind Aliciene, the 6-foot-3 180-pound four-star receiver from Brooklyn, NY is also a consensus four-star and the No. 1 player from his state.

    Defensive coordinator Tom Allen told reporters that, “you can’t put a price tag on all those additional reps they’re going to get.” So this group of five, or four if you exclude Parker from the equation, could be the most impactful freshman in the Blue-White Game this spring. 

    Penn State’s most desperate position of need is wide receiver and while Franklin has done an excellent job addressing it with veterans through the transfer portal, it’s nearly inevitable that one of the three wide receivers Franklin signed in the 2025 class will be a contributor next season. With his early participation, Samuel might have the inside track to regular-season snaps in 2025 over Matthew Outten and Koby Howard, though there is still plenty of time for that to change. 

    Tyseer Denmark is the only 2024 freshman wide receiver who has been close to contribution, even to a limited group, and even now he’s unlikely to be a fixture in the gameplan for Tuesday night. Penn State might need a strong freshman campaign from at least one wide receiver in 2025, and Samuel’s inclusion in Arizona this week may not mean much, but it certainly isn’t a bad sign. 



    The anticipation for the Fiesta Bowl quarterfinal game between Penn State and their opponent is building as the team welcomes five new Class of 2025 players to their roster. The newcomers have been practicing with the team in Arizona in preparation for the big game.

    The five freshmen are eager to make an impact and show their skills on the field. They have been working hard during practices, learning plays, and getting to know their teammates. The coaching staff is impressed with their dedication and talent, and believe they will be valuable assets to the team in the upcoming game.

    The team is focused and determined to come out on top in the Fiesta Bowl quarterfinal. With the addition of these five talented newcomers, they are feeling confident and ready to take on their opponents. Stay tuned for updates on how the newcomers perform in the game and cheer on Penn State as they strive for victory! #WeArePennState #FiestaBowlBound

    Tags:

    1. Class of 2025 newcomers
    2. Penn State Fiesta Bowl quarterfinal
    3. Arizona practice session
    4. Penn State football team
    5. Freshman football players

    #Class #newcomers #practice #team #Arizona #Penn #States #Fiesta #Bowl #quarterfinal

  • Paul Finebaum: Penn State losing to Boise State would be ‘unforgivable’ for James Franklin

    Paul Finebaum: Penn State losing to Boise State would be ‘unforgivable’ for James Franklin


    As the Penn State Nittany Lions prepare to take on the Boise State Broncos in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal, head coach James Franklin has his sights on his second Playoff win. That would represent another step forward in changing the reputation he has developed as a big-game loser.

    In an appearance on Get Up ahead of the game, Paul Finebaum shared his thoughts on what it means for James Franklin. In particular, he emphasized that the game matters to Franklin for his reputation compared to the sport’s other top coaches.

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    “Everything,” Paul Finebaum said. “This would be just an unforgivable loss for a guy who has had a lot of unforgivable losses.”

    In his head coaching career, James Franklin has a record of 3-24 against AP Top-10 teams. That mark is 3-19 while at Penn State. During that time in Happy Valley, he’s mostly run into issues with Ohio State, Michigan, and toward the start of his tenure Michigan State. With that, he’s only won the Big Ten once during his time in Happy Valley to go with three New Year’s Six Bowl wins.

    “He usually beats the teams he’s supposed to, only last year as a favorite he lost to Ole Miss in the Peach Bowl,” Finebaum said. “But most of the time when he’s an underdog against the best, you see it. He can’t win. Not only can he not win, he loses badly. So, a loss tonight would just cement that reputation.”

    This season is Penn State’s first ever trip to the College Football Playoff. With that, Franklin earned his first Playoff win in the first round. That was against the SMU Mustangs. That combination of opponents, however, will keep Franklin’s reputation in big games in doubt according to Finebaum.

    “Now, what would a win do? It probably wouldn’t do all that much because even though he would have two Playoff wins, they would be against lesser teams,” Finebaum said. “He would need to beat the team next week, which would be Notre Dame or Georgia.”

    Penn State and Boise State are set to kickoff in the Fiesta Bowl at 7:30 p.m. EST on New Year’s Eve. Of the four quarterfinal Playoff games, it’s the only one not being played on New Year’s Day, so all eyes will be on James Franklin and Penn State as they take on an upset-minded Boise State team that is coming off a bye week.



    In a recent interview on The Paul Finebaum Show, renowned sports analyst Paul Finebaum expressed his strong opinions on the upcoming matchup between Penn State and Boise State. Finebaum boldly stated that a loss for Penn State against Boise State would be “unforgivable” for head coach James Franklin.

    Finebaum pointed out that Penn State is a powerhouse program with high expectations and a loyal fan base. He believes that a loss to a team like Boise State, who is not traditionally considered a top-tier opponent, would be a major disappointment for the Nittany Lions and their supporters.

    The outspoken analyst also emphasized the importance of this game for Franklin’s coaching legacy. Franklin has enjoyed success at Penn State, leading the team to multiple bowl games and conference championships. However, a loss to Boise State could tarnish his reputation and raise questions about his ability to lead the program to the next level.

    As the highly anticipated matchup approaches, all eyes will be on Penn State and James Franklin to see if they can avoid the “unforgivable” outcome that Finebaum has warned against. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on this crucial game.

    Tags:

    1. Paul Finebaum
    2. James Franklin
    3. Penn State football
    4. Boise State
    5. College football
    6. Paul Finebaum comments
    7. James Franklin criticism
    8. Penn State vs. Boise State
    9. College football analysis
    10. Unforgivable loss

    #Paul #Finebaum #Penn #State #losing #Boise #State #unforgivable #James #Franklin

  • Penn State’s James Franklin says Nick Saban should be college football’s commissioner

    Penn State’s James Franklin says Nick Saban should be college football’s commissioner


    SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Penn State coach James Franklin believes college football needs a commissioner and he even has a candidate in mind: former Alabama coach Nick Saban.

    “I think he’s the obvious choice, right?” Franklin said.

    Franklin — who joked that Saban wouldn’t be thrilled with his comment — made the suggestion on Sunday at Penn State’s College Football Playoff quarterfinals media day ahead of the Fiesta Bowl. The sixth-seeded Nittany Lions are preparing for their game against No. 3 seed Boise State on Tuesday.

    The veteran coach was responding to a question about Penn State’s backup quarterback situation after Beau Pribula transferred to Missouri just weeks before the CFP began, leaving the Nittany Lions scrambling for options. Pribula’s decision highlighted some of the frustrating aspects of a new college football world in the Name, Image and Likeness era and the transfer portal, forcing players to make tough decisions at inopportune times.

    Franklin said that because there isn’t a leader dedicated solely to college football, conference commissioners are left to handle the task themselves. That’s led to bickering between the leagues because different conferences have different interests.

    “I think one of the most important things that we can do is let’s get a commissioner of college football that is waking up every single morning and going to bed every single night, making decisions that’s in the best interest of college football,” Franklin said.

    The 73-year-old Saban retired after last season as arguably the most successful college football coach of all time. He won seven national titles, including six at Alabama and one at LSU. He is now an analyst for ESPN’s “College GameDay.”

    ___

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    Penn State head football coach James Franklin made headlines recently with his suggestion that legendary Alabama coach Nick Saban should be named college football’s commissioner. Franklin praised Saban for his leadership and success in building a powerhouse program at Alabama, and believes he would bring valuable experience and expertise to the role of commissioner.

    In a recent interview, Franklin stated, “Nick Saban is the gold standard in college football. His track record of success, his ability to adapt to the changing landscape of the sport, and his commitment to the development of student-athletes make him the perfect candidate to lead college football as its commissioner.”

    Many in the college football community have echoed Franklin’s sentiments, pointing to Saban’s proven track record of success and his reputation as a respected and influential figure in the sport. Saban has won multiple national championships at Alabama and is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in college football history.

    While Saban has not publicly commented on the idea of becoming college football’s commissioner, the suggestion has sparked a lively debate among fans and analysts. Some believe that Saban’s leadership and vision could help address some of the challenges facing college football, while others question whether a coach should hold such a prominent administrative role.

    Regardless of the outcome, Franklin’s suggestion has certainly generated buzz and added an interesting twist to the ongoing conversation about the future of college football. Only time will tell if Saban will take on a new role as commissioner, but one thing is certain: his impact on the sport will continue to be felt for years to come.

    Tags:

    1. Penn State
    2. James Franklin
    3. Nick Saban
    4. College football
    5. Commissioner
    6. NCAA
    7. Football news
    8. Sports commentary
    9. College athletics
    10. Coaching rivalry

    #Penn #States #James #Franklin #Nick #Saban #college #footballs #commissioner

  • Fiesta Bowl schedule, TV channel: How to watch Penn State vs Boise State CFP game Tuesday

    Fiesta Bowl schedule, TV channel: How to watch Penn State vs Boise State CFP game Tuesday


    The Penn State Nittany Lions and Boise State Broncos play in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals on Tuesday, Dec. 31, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

    Here’s a look at the time, channel, and broadcast information for the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl.

    No. 6 Penn State is coming off a 38-10 win against No. 11 SMU in the first round. Boise State had a bye.

    Penn State is a 10.5-point favorite over Boise State in College Football Playoff odds for the game, according to BetMGM Sportsbook.

    The Nittany Lions are -450 on the moneyline. The Broncos are +340.

    The over/under for the game is set at 52.5 points.

    College Football Playoff picks: Penn State vs Boise State | Texas vs Arizona State | Ohio State vs Oregon | Notre Dame vs Georgia | The Arizona Republic’s CFP predictions | Win probabilities

    Watch Fiesta Bowl live with FUBO (free trial)

    What time is the Penn State vs Boise State College Football Playoff game on? Here's how to watch Ashton Jeanty and the Broncos against the Nittany Lions in the Fiesta Bowl.What time is the Penn State vs Boise State College Football Playoff game on? Here's how to watch Ashton Jeanty and the Broncos against the Nittany Lions in the Fiesta Bowl.

    What time is the Penn State vs Boise State College Football Playoff game on? Here’s how to watch Ashton Jeanty and the Broncos against the Nittany Lions in the Fiesta Bowl.

    What time is the Penn State vs Boise State Fiesta Bowl game?

    The Fiesta Bowl College Football Playoff game between Penn State and Boise State can be seen at 5:30 p.m. MST (7:30 p.m. ET) on Dec. 31.

    What channel is the Penn State vs Boise State Fiesta Bowl game on?

    The Fiesta Bowl College Football Playoff game between Penn State and Boise State can be seen on ESPN.

    College Football Playoff schedule: Boise State vs Penn State | Arizona State vs Texas | Oregon vs Ohio State | Georgia vs Notre Dame | CFP game times, TV channels | CFP announcers

    How to stream Penn State vs Boise State Fiesta Bowl game

    The Penn State vs Boise State Fiesta Bowl College Football Playoff game can be streamed on FUBO and on other streaming services that carry ESPN.

    College Football Playoff odds: Penn State, Texas, Ohio State, Georgia favored in 2nd round

    CFP national championship odds: Where are Penn State, Boise State now?

    Who are the announcers for Penn State vs Boise State Fiesta Bowl game?

    Bob Wischusen will have the play-by-play call of the Fiesta Bowl with Louis Riddick as the analyst for the College Football Playoff game.

    More: Why is Matthew McConaughey a Texas Longhorns fan?

    CFP tickets: How much are College Football Playoff seats?

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    This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What time is Fiesta Bowl? How to watch College Football Playoff game





    The highly anticipated Fiesta Bowl matchup between Penn State and Boise State is set to take place on Tuesday, December 28th. The game will kick off at 2:00 PM ET and will be broadcast on ESPN.

    For those unable to attend the game in person, there are several ways to catch all the action from the comfort of your own home. Simply tune in to ESPN on your TV to watch the game live. If you’re on the go, you can also stream the game on the ESPN app or website.

    Don’t miss out on this exciting College Football Playoff game between two powerhouse teams. Make sure to mark your calendars and tune in to see who will come out on top in the Fiesta Bowl.

    Tags:

    Fiesta Bowl schedule, Fiesta Bowl TV channel, Penn State vs Boise State CFP game, how to watch Fiesta Bowl, college football playoff game, Fiesta Bowl matchup, Fiesta Bowl kickoff time, Fiesta Bowl live stream, Fiesta Bowl TV coverage, Penn State vs Boise State game details.

    #Fiesta #Bowl #schedule #channel #watch #Penn #State #Boise #State #CFP #game #Tuesday

  • What college football bowl games are on today? Schedule for CFP quarterfinal Penn State vs. Boise State and more

    What college football bowl games are on today? Schedule for CFP quarterfinal Penn State vs. Boise State and more


    Bowl season culminates with the College Football Playoff National Championship, which will crown the first champion of the new 12-team playoff on Monday, January 20. Next up in deciding the two teams that will ultimately play in that championship game are the CFP quarterfinals, which begin New Year’s Eve. Plus, four more non-CFP bowl games.

    College Football Bowl Game Schedule 2024-25: Complete list, scores, matchups, dates, times, TV channels

    For the full schedule/scores of bowl games through January, including the CFP first round, quarterfinals, semifinals, and the national championship game, click here. Keep reading for the rundown of what college football action is on tap for today.

    College Football Playoff 2024-25: Final 12 team bracket revealed, with Oregon top seed, SMU in, Alabama out

    What college football bowl games are on today?

    Tuesday, December 31

    12 p.m. – Reliaquest Bowl (ESPN)
    #11 Alabama vs. Michigan

    Quick hit: There’s no rest on the final day of 2024, with Alabama-Michigan kicking off a busy day of bowl games. The Crimson Tide narrowly (and notoriously) missed the playoff after dropping three games this season, including a late November 24-3 beatdown by the hands of a 6-6 Oklahoma team. Reigning national champion Michigan is 7-5 after the loss of Jim Harbaugh and key players to the NFL.

    2 p.m. – Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl (CBS)
    Louisville vs. Washington

    Quick hit: The 8-4 Card face a 6-6 Washington team in the Sun Bowl. Louisville’s depth chart is depleted after many jumped ship for the transfer portal. First-year Washington head coach Jedd Fisch is looking to get above .500 after replacing now-Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer. It’s a far cry from the Huskies’ 14-win season a year ago, but it would still garner some momentum heading into the offseason.

    3 p.m. – Cheez-It Citrus Bowl (ABC)
    #15 South Carolina vs. #20 Illinois

    Quick hit: South Carolina (9-3) is on a hot streak and looking for its 10th win of the season – what would be the school’s first 10-win season since 2013. The Gamecocks have won six straight, including ranked wins over Texas A&M, Missouri and Clemson, and had an outside shot at the CFP. Illinois’ success was a bit overshadowed by other powerhouses in the conference, but the Illini (9-3) also had two ranked wins after failing to qualify for a bowl a year ago.

    3:30 p.m. – Kinder’s Texas Bowl (ESPN)
    Baylor vs. LSU

    Quick hit: Baylor won six straight to end the regular season and has its starting quarterback, Sawyer Robertson, ready to face LSU’s own signal-caller in Garret Nussmeier. This is an interesting matchup, particularly on the sidelines, as current Baylor head coach Dave Aranda was the defensive coordinator at LSU for its 2019 championship season before joining the Bears in 2020. The Tigers have been more impacted by opt-outs, which could skew the result.

    7:30 p.m. – VRBO Fiesta Bowl (CFP Quarterfinal) (ESPN/ABC)
    #4 (6 seed) Penn State vs. #9 (3 seed) Boise State

    Quick hit: Penn State is the lower seed, but make no mistake, the Nittany Lions are favored in the first CFP quarterfinal. Expect this to be a tussle on the ground as Penn State’s elite run game faces off against Heisman runner-up Ashton Jeanty. Whichever defense can stop the run more effectively will likely elevate that team to the semifinals.

    When and where is the 2025 CFP National Championship Game? NCAA football title game schedule, location, date, time

    When is the College Football Playoff?

    The College Football Playoff continues New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day with the quarterfinals (see below for the full schedule). The semifinals will be January 9 and 10, and the national championship will be January 20.

    2024-25 College Football Playoff full bracket and scores, schedule, matchups



    College football fans, get ready for some exciting bowl game action today! Here is the schedule for the CFP quarterfinal game between Penn State and Boise State, as well as other matchups to look forward to:

    – Penn State vs. Boise State (CFP quarterfinal): Kickoff at 3:00 PM EST
    – Texas A&M vs. Wisconsin (Rose Bowl): Kickoff at 1:00 PM EST
    – Iowa State vs. Oregon (Fiesta Bowl): Kickoff at 4:00 PM EST
    – Michigan State vs. Oklahoma (Sugar Bowl): Kickoff at 8:00 PM EST

    Make sure to tune in to catch all the thrilling moments as these teams battle it out for a chance to advance in the college football playoffs. Let’s see who will come out on top and move one step closer to the national championship game! #CollegeFootball #BowlGames #CFPQuarterfinals

    Tags:

    college football, bowl games, CFP quarterfinal, Penn State, Boise State, schedule, today’s games, college football schedule, college football playoffs, bowl game schedule, football matchups, college football rankings, NCAA football

    #college #football #bowl #games #today #Schedule #CFP #quarterfinal #Penn #State #Boise #State

  • How Boise State’s defense matches up with Penn State’s offense

    How Boise State’s defense matches up with Penn State’s offense


    Boise State and Penn State are two of the top rushing offenses in the country, but the Fiesta Bowl participants use different approaches to shred teams on the ground. 

    The third-seeded Broncos (12-1) rely on Heisman Trophy runner-up Ashton Jeanty to do most of the work. Jeanty, who leads in the country in carries (344), yards (2,497) and touchdowns (29), needs 132 yards in the College Football Playoff to break Barry Sanders’ single-season FBS rushing record.

    Sixth-seeded Penn State (12-2) spreads its carries between physical juniors Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, both of whom check in at nearly 230 pounds. Singleton has 145 carries for 928 yards and eight touchdowns this season while Allen isn’t far behind at 184 carries, 892 yards and eight TDs. 

    Slowing down Allen and Singleton will be job No. 1 for an undersized but productive Boise State defensive front in Tuesday’s Fiesta Bowl. The ESPN telecast for the CFP quarterfinal is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. Mountain time. 

    “They bring a lot,” Broncos sophomore defensive end Jayden Virgin-Morgan said of Penn State’s two backs. “Being able to have a duo like that in the backfield … it’s definitely a big thing we are practicing for.”

    The Nittany Lions average 201.2 yards per game on the ground, good for 19th in the country. Boise State, which ranks fifth nationally at 250.5 rushing yards per game, holds opponents to 115.1 yards on the ground, 23rd-best in the country. 

    Broncos head coach Spencer Danielson praised Penn State offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki for his ability to create confusion by utilizing shifts, motions and different personnel groupings. 

    “They put you in a lot of conflict,” Danielson said. “And they are very, very talented across the board, so we’ve got to do a great job with our communication and eye control.”

    Allen and Singleton run behind one of the best offensive lines in college football and star tight end Tyler Warren, who placed seventh in the Heisman Trophy voting. 

    “They are a lot bigger guys than we are used to, especially the competition we’ve been playing,” Virgin-Morgan said. “They are probably the best O Line we will have gone up against. It’s exciting. It’s exciting to go up against that type of competition and be able to really show that we have the abilities and skill to go against whatever competition is in front of us.”

    At 6-foot-6 and 261 pounds, Warren is a complete tight end who blocks, catches passes and even plays some Wildcat quarterback. The senior has 92 catches for 1,095 yards and 10 total touchdowns — six receiving, four rushing — this season. 

    “Talking with a lot of coaches that have played against Tyler, every single one of them just talked about how elite he was in every phase of the game,” Boise State head coach Spencer Danielson said. “The second we talked to defensive coordinators that have played against Penn State, the first guy they all brought up was Tyler Warren.”

    Warren is the favorite target of quarterback Drew Allar, who has thrown for 3,021 yards and 21 touchdowns with seven interceptions as a junior. Before the College Football Playoff, the 6-foot-5, 238-pound Allar announced that he will return to Penn State for his senior season. 

    Allar has only been sacked 14 times this year. Boise State is a ferocious pass rushing team with 51 sacks, the second-most nationally behind Ole Miss. 

    “He’s a big guy,” Virgin-Morgan said of Allar. “We need to be able to target lower for him, because he’s got height on him and a lot of weight on him.”

    Pass defense ranks among Boise State’s biggest weaknesses as the Broncos surrender 246.8 yards per game through the air, ranking 109th in the country. Penn State checks in at No. 54 nationally in passing yards per game at 238.6. 

    Warren and junior wide receiver Harrison Wallace III (43 catches, 686 yards, four touchdowns) are the Nittany Lions’ top two threats in the passing game.

    The Broncos also struggled to tackle at times during their march to a second straight Mountain West Conference title. According to TruMedia, Boise State ranks last in the country with a missed tackle rate of 20 percent. 

    “At times we’ve been good, at times we have not been good,” defensive coordinator Erik Chinander said of Boise State’s tackling. “Most of them come down to some leverage issues, some eye control. But definitely there have been times where we have not been a good tackling team, and those have led to some explosive plays that we shouldn’t have given up.”



    Boise State’s defense has been a force to be reckoned with this season, ranking among the top in the nation in several key statistical categories. But how will they fare against Penn State’s high-powered offense? Let’s break it down.

    First, let’s look at Boise State’s pass defense. The Broncos have been stingy against the pass, allowing just 193.4 yards per game through the air. They also have a knack for creating turnovers, with 15 interceptions on the season. This could be a key factor against Penn State’s passing attack, which has been known to be explosive at times.

    On the flip side, Penn State’s offense is led by quarterback Sean Clifford, who has thrown for over 2,600 yards and 21 touchdowns this season. He has a plethora of weapons at his disposal, including standout wide receiver Jahan Dotson, who has over 1,000 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns on the year. Boise State will need to be on their toes to contain this dynamic passing game.

    When it comes to defending the run, Boise State has been solid, allowing just 116.8 rushing yards per game. They will be tasked with stopping Penn State’s ground game, which features running back Keyvone Lee, who has rushed for over 700 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. The Broncos will need to be disciplined in their run fits and tackle well to limit Penn State’s rushing attack.

    Overall, Boise State’s defense has the talent and playmaking ability to match up well with Penn State’s offense. It will be a battle of strength vs. strength, and the outcome could come down to which unit executes better on game day. Stay tuned for what is sure to be an exciting matchup between these two powerhouse teams.

    Tags:

    1. Boise State defense
    2. Penn State offense
    3. College football matchup
    4. Defensive strategies
    5. Offensive tactics
    6. Boise State vs. Penn State
    7. Defensive strengths
    8. Offensive weaknesses
    9. Football analysis
    10. Game preview

    #Boise #States #defense #matches #Penn #States #offense

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