Penn State Football Meets High National Expectations in 2025 Season

Penn State football enters the 2025 season with high expectations, as the team is ranked as the No. 1 preseason team by some and in the top five by many, bolstered by the return of key players like quarterback Drew Allar and running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Head coach James Franklin, in his 12th year, acknowledges the national excitement but emphasizes that the only rankings that truly matter are those at the end of the season, highlighting the pressure and tradition of high expectations at Penn State. Despite a strong 2024 season culminating in a College Football Playoff semifinal appearance, Franklin notes the program's struggles against top-five opponents and views this season as a potential career-defining opportunity with a talented roster and new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. Media and fan polls reflect widespread confidence, with Penn State favored to win the Big Ten and multiple players named to preseason All-Big Ten teams. Franklin also praised the SEC and ACC for their media day accessibility compared to the Big Ten's recent events, which some found less engaging. Overall, Penn State's combination of returning talent, coaching strength, and high preseason rankings sets the stage for a pivotal 2025 campaign where the team aims to meet and exceed lofty national expectations.