Penn State is making waves this season, but the journey has not been without its challenges. After a disappointing end to the 2023 season, where the Nittany Lions scored a mere 27 points in losses to top-three opponents Ohio State and Michigan, the team decided it was time for a change. Both coordinators were replaced, setting the stage for a fresh approach in 2024.
New Faces in Critical Roles
On the offensive side, head coach James Franklin turned to Andy Kotelnicki, who previously worked wonders at Kansas. Kotelnicki’s creative scheme has introduced a dynamic blend of pre-snap motion and quarterback runs, including the “Wildcat” formation. The Nittany Lions have shown more explosiveness this season, with eight 40-yard plays from scrimmage—matching the total they recorded in all of 2023. However, they are currently averaging 26.2 points per game against Big Ten teams, a slight dip from last year’s 31.3.
Meanwhile, on the defensive front, Franklin hired Tom Allen, who previously led Indiana as head coach for eight years. Allen has maintained Penn State’s status as a top contender in the Big Ten, keeping them within the top three in scoring defense nationally. This is no small feat, especially considering the high expectations that come with the Nittany Lions’ storied football program.
Assessing the Coordinators
As the season progresses, Franklin was recently asked to evaluate his coordinators’ playcalling. “It’s been good,” he stated confidently. “If you look at our numbers, our numbers are pretty good, kind of across the board. There are some areas that we can improve, and we study those things, strengths and weaknesses, all the time and try to tweak some things to help.”
Franklin emphasized the importance of performance in critical games. “We’re judged on games, on specific games and specific opponents. So, overall, very good. We got to be at our best, that’s myself and everybody included, when it means the most.”
Offensive Struggles and Resilience
However, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing for Kotelnicki’s offense. In a high-stakes matchup against now-No. 2 Ohio State, the Nittany Lions struggled to find the end zone, failing to score an offensive touchdown in a 20-13 loss. They reached the Buckeyes’ 3-yard line twice but couldn’t convert, including four goal-to-go plays where star tight end Tyler Warren didn’t touch the ball during a crucial drive late in the game.
Yet, the Nittany Lions demonstrated resilience just a week later, bouncing back with a commanding 35-6 victory over Washington. This win showcased the potential of Kotelnicki’s offense and highlighted the importance of adaptability in college football.
Quarterback Development
A significant part of this offensive resurgence can be attributed to second-year starting quarterback Drew Allar. His mobility has been a game-changer, netting 172 rushing yards and three touchdowns this season. Allar has also scrambled for 192 yards, gaining 11 first downs and forcing seven missed tackles, according to Pro Football Focus. While he has faced some challenges, including being sacked 10 times, his overall performance has been impressive.
Allar’s completion percentage has skyrocketed to 70.3%, a significant improvement from last year’s 59.9%. In fact, he has completed at least 60% of his passes in every game this season, a testament to his growth and Kotelnicki’s coaching.
Defensive Comparisons
On the defensive side, Allen’s unit has been effective, allowing points per game comparable to that of former coordinator Manny Diaz. However, there are areas for improvement. The Nittany Lions have dropped from first nationally in sacks per game (3.77) to tied for 35th this year (2.44 sacks per game). Additionally, their takeaways have decreased significantly, falling from 13th in the FBS last season to 66th this year.
Despite these challenges, the defense remains a formidable force, and Allen is working diligently to enhance their performance.
Looking Ahead: A Shot at the Playoffs
As the Nittany Lions sit at No. 4 in the rankings and with only a few games left in the regular season, they have their sights set on a historic achievement: a spot in the College Football Playoff. With the right focus and execution down the stretch, Penn State could make history by securing its first-ever playoff appearance.
The stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable. Can the Nittany Lions rise to the occasion? With a talented roster and a renewed coaching staff, the answer may just be a resounding yes. The journey continues, and fans are eagerly watching to see how this season unfolds.
