Penn State searches for new defensive coordinator after Tom Allen's departure

Penn State football is currently searching for a new defensive coordinator following Tom Allen's departure to Clemson after just one season. Among the candidates, internal options include Poindexter, who has been with the team for four seasons and previously managed the defense during bowl games. External candidates such as Knowles from Ohio State are also being considered, although it remains uncertain whether he would leave his current position. As the team reflects on a successful 2024 season finishing at No. 5 in the AP Top 25, head coach James Franklin is under pressure to elevate the program to a higher competitive tier. The Nittany Lions' losses came against the top three teams in the nation, suggesting a need to improve in critical matchups. The retention of key players like quarterback Drew Allar and running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen offers optimism for future seasons.