ESPN Report: Penn State Gets Another Preseason Boost From ESPN
As the countdown to the 2025 college football season continues, Penn State is once again making headlines — and for all the right reasons. ESPN, a major influencer in the world of college sports, has given the Nittany Lions another nod of approval, further elevating the team’s national profile and fueling optimism among fans in Happy Valley.
This latest boost comes in the form of ESPN’s updated preseason rankings and analysis, which place Penn State squarely among the nation’s elite programs heading into the new season. The media outlet’s panel of analysts praised the team’s returning talent, coaching stability, and potential to contend not only in the Big Ten but also in the College Football Playoff race.
For head coach James Franklin, this recognition adds momentum to what’s already shaping up to be a highly anticipated campaign. With several key players returning and a top-tier recruiting class on campus, expectations are soaring. ESPN analysts were especially impressed with the defensive unit, highlighting its depth and physicality — a hallmark of recent Penn State squads.
In addition to defensive dominance, quarterback Drew Allar has also drawn attention from national pundits. After a solid 2024 season, Allar is expected to take another leap forward this fall. His development under center could be the key to unlocking Penn State’s offensive ceiling. ESPN’s college football insiders noted that if Allar can deliver on his five-star promise, Penn State could be a true title contender.
- Off the field, the program is also benefiting from a surge in recruiting success. Franklin and his staff have continued to build momentum, with several high-profile commitments choosing Penn State over traditional powerhouses. ESPN credited this upward trend as a significant factor in the program’s preseason credibility, noting that recruiting excellence often translates into long-term success.
Moreover, ESPN’s preseason projections emphasized Penn State’s favorable schedule. While matchups with Ohio State and Michigan still loom large, the Nittany Lions avoid some potential pitfalls that other top contenders may face. With several critical games set to be played at Beaver Stadium, the “White Out” atmosphere could once again become a decisive factor in pivotal contests.
Fans have responded to the positive press with increased enthusiasm. Season ticket sales are surging, and expectations are arguably at their highest level since the Saquon Barkley era. For a program that’s been on the verge of greatness in recent seasons, the preseason spotlight is a welcome sign that the college football world is taking notice.
Of course, preseason praise is just that — praise. The true test will come on the field. But with ESPN giving Penn State another high-profile endorsement, there’s no denying that the Nittany Lions are firmly on the national radar. If they can live up to the hype, 2025 could be the year Penn State finally breaks through to the top.
