Penn State Football’s Best Shine Brightly on the National Stage
In the ever-competitive world of college football, few programs have consistently produced elite talent quite like Penn State. As the 2025 season takes shape, several Nittany Lions are distinguishing themselves not just in the Big Ten, but across the national landscape—earning widespread recognition for their talent, leadership, and potential. According to a recent feature by On3, Penn State’s top players are standing tall among the country’s best.
At the heart of the team’s rising profile is head coach James Franklin’s ability to develop NFL-caliber athletes while maintaining a culture rooted in discipline and team-first values. Under his guidance, Penn State continues to be a program where top recruits are transformed into national stars, and that legacy is evident more than ever this year.
One name that frequently emerges in conversations about the nation’s elite is quarterback Drew Allar. The former five-star recruit is now fulfilling expectations as the leader of the offense. With his size, arm strength, and poise in the pocket, Allar has already drawn comparisons to some of the top signal-callers in college football. His growth and command of the game are being praised by analysts across the country, with On3 listing him among the top quarterbacks to watch this season.
But Allar isn’t alone in earning accolades. Linebacker Abdul Carter continues to raise eyebrows with his relentless play and versatility on defense. A dynamic presence who can rush the passer, drop into coverage, and chase down runners from sideline to sideline, Carter has become a cornerstone of Penn State’s defensive identity. His performances have not only impressed within the conference but also caught the attention of national pundits projecting him as a first-round NFL draft pick.
Another standout making waves is offensive tackle Olu Fashanu, whose dominance on the line has been instrumental in both protecting Allar and opening running lanes. His combination of athleticism and strength has earned him top-tier grades from scouts and draft analysts alike. On3 highlighted Fashanu as one of the best offensive linemen in the nation, reinforcing Penn State’s reputation as an offensive line factory.
Penn State’s influence on the national stage extends beyond individual accolades. The program is increasingly being recognized for the quality and depth of its roster. Several players, including cornerback Kalen King and running back Nick Singleton, are gaining traction as future stars, with their performances reflecting the team’s balanced excellence on both sides of the ball.
With preseason rankings placing the Nittany Lions firmly in playoff contention, the spotlight will only grow brighter. But with that pressure comes opportunity—and if the early buzz is any indication, Penn State’s best are more than ready to meet the moment.
As the new season approaches, it’s clear that the Nittany Lions aren’t just competing—they’re setting the standard. Whether it’s Allar commanding the offense, Carter anchoring the defense, or Fashanu paving the way up front, Penn State football’s finest are undeniably making their mark on the national scene.
