Hardcore Penn State Football

Ep. 197 | Big Game James

Buckle up for the Hardcore Penn State Football Podcast as we unpack the gut-wrenching 30-24 double-overtime loss to No. 6 Oregon in Week 6's White Out thriller at Beaver Stadium! In front of a shattering 111,015 fans clad in white, the Nittany Lions (3-1, 0-1 Big Ten) fought valiantly in a rematch of last year's Big Ten Championship but couldn't overcome offensive woes, a toothless defense, and another signature defeat for James Franklin. Oregon (5-0, 2-0) extends its regular-season Big Ten win streak to 12, but PSU's playoff dreams took a hit. We're dissecting the film, the what-ifs, and the path forward—because even in defeat, We Are! Drew Allar’s rollercoaster season hit a devastating low in the White Out spotlight, completing just 18-of-35 passes for 212 yards, 2 TDs, and one crushing interception—a game-sealing pick on his first throw of the second overtime that handed Oregon the win. The senior flashed poise with a 42-yard bomb to Devonte Ross and a clutch two-minute drill to tie it late, but his streaky arm (underthrows to Trebor Peña, forced throws into double coverage) and footwork issues under pressure from Oregon’s front seven led to a season-low 51% completion rate. After 722 yards and 7 TDs through three games, Allar’s boom-or-bust pattern is now a glaring concern—can he lock in before Ohio State, or is this the regression we feared? Penn State’s vaunted defense, which suffocated Nevada, FIU, and Villanova, was shockingly passive against Oregon’s tempo offense, mustering only one tackle for loss while allowing 428 total yards and 5.2 yards per carry. The unit bent but rarely broke—holding the Ducks to 3-of-12 on third downs but lacked the disruptive edge from Zuriah Fisher (just 2 tackles) and Tony Rojas (8 stops but no splash plays). In double OT, Oregon’s explosive runs and Dante Moore’s poise exposed coverage lapses, leading to back-to-back TDs. Under DC Jim Knowles, this was a wake-up call: Where was the swarm we saw in the shutouts? James Franklin’s 4-12 lifetime record against top-10 foes (now 4-13 after this gut-punch) looms larger than ever, as Oregon blew a 17-10 fourth-quarter lead and but PSU couldn’t close in OT despite a roaring White Out crowd that forced two false starts on the Ducks. Franklin’s conservative calls—settling for Ryan Barker’s career-long 49-yarder early and punting on 4th-and-2—drew post-game heat, and his teams’ 1-5 mark in OT games since 2014 feels cursed. Despite a gritty comeback capped by Kaytron Allen’s 4-yard OT TD run (he and Nicholas Singleton combined for 142 rushing yards), Franklin admitted the execution fell short. With a loaded schedule ahead, can he finally exorcise these October demons and salvage a playoff run? Hats off to Oregon’s dynamic duo—head coach Dan Lanning schemed a masterpiece, bottling PSU’s run game (3.8 yards per carry) with aggressive blitzes and tempo shifts that neutralized the Lions’ O-line. Transfer QB Dante Moore was unflappable in the cauldron, going 22-of-30 for 285 yards and 3 TDs (including a 25-yard OT dagger to Gary Bryant Jr. and an 8-yarder to Dierre Hill Jr.), while adding 42 rushing yards to cap a 54-point-per-game Ducks offense. Lanning’s staff turned the White Out into a house of horrors for Penn State, proving Oregon is the Big Ten’s new alpha and a legit national title contender. Respect earned—now how does PSU respond? The loss drops PSU to No. 7 in the AP Poll, but with winnable games against UCLA and Northwestern next, there’s time to climb back into playoff contention. We’re analyzing the offensive line, debating Allar’s benching buzz, and previewing how the D-line can rediscover its edge.
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Ep. 196 | Duck Hunt

Get ready for the Hardcore Penn State Football Podcast as we preview the electric White Out clash between No. 3 Penn State and No. 6 Oregon this Saturday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC’s Big Ten Saturday Night! The 3-0 Nittany Lions, fresh off blowouts over Nevada (46-11), FIU (34-0), and Villanova (52-6), face their toughest test yet in a rematch of last year’s 28-24 Big Ten Championship thriller. With Beaver Stadium set to erupt in the 2025 White Out, this game could propel PSU back to No. 1 and cement their playoff path. Joined by special guest Donnie Collins, we’re breaking down Drew Allar’s defining moment, James Franklin’s big-game legacy, and why the line of scrimmage will decide it all. #WeAre ready—let’s dive in! This is it—Drew Allar’s chance to silence doubters under the White Out lights. The senior QB has shown flashes of brilliance (722 yards, 7 TDs, 65.3% completion through three games) but struggled with streaky play, including a costly pick against Villanova. Facing Oregon’s top-15 secondary, led by young but talented corners, Allar must stay poised to hit Kyron Hudson and Trebor Peña downfield while avoiding the turnovers that plagued PSU’s 0-2 record against top-10 teams last year. A clean game could vault Allar into Heisman talks and prove he’s the QB to lead Penn State to a national title. We’re analyzing his progress post-BYE and what he needs to do to outduel Oregon’s dual-threat signal-caller. James Franklin is 4-12 against top-10 opponents since 2016. With a 3-0 start and a defense allowing just 5.7 points per game, this is Franklin’s chance to flip the narrative in a game Vegas lists as a slight Penn State favorite. Can he scheme up a plan to exploit Oregon’s 20% explosive play rate while keeping PSU’s offense (averaging 44 points) humming? We’re debating Franklin’s game plan, from leaning on Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen’s ground attack to unleashing DC Jim Knowles’ turnover-hungry defense (6 forced turnovers in 2025). We’re pumped to have friend of the podcast Donnie Collins, veteran Penn State beat writer and co-host of Penn Stated, drop by for exclusive insights! Donnie breaks down the X’s and O’s, focusing on Drew Allar's performance. He’ll also share stories from covering PSU’s iconic White Outs and weigh in on whether Allar’s poise and Franklin’s play-calling can outmatch Dan Lanning’s Ducks, who enter 4-0 after crushing foes 162-30. Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions
WEEK 5 PICK'EM

Ep. 195 | For Ducks Sake

Welcome back to the Hardcore Penn State Football Podcast for our ultimate hype show ahead of No. 3 Penn State's electric White Out clash with No. 6 Oregon on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC's Big Ten Saturday Night! Fresh off a 3-0 start with blowouts over Nevada (46-11), FIU (34-0), and Villanova (52-6), the Nittany Lions head into this rematch of last year's Big Ten Championship (which PSU won 28-24) as slight favorites in a game that could catapult them to No. 1. Beaver Stadium will transform into a sea of white under the lights, with over 108,000 fans creating college football's most intimidating atmosphere. We're breaking down keys to victory, special guest insights, and why this is must-win for James Franklin's squad. It's back where it belongs—primetime against a top-10 powerhouse! The 2025 White Out, turns West Shore Home Field at Beaver Stadium into a deafening whiteout spectacle. PSU is 13-8 all-time in White Outs, including six straight wins since 2019, and Oregon's players have already called it a "bucket-list game." Expect fireworks, synchronized chants, and a crowd that rattles even the most seasoned Ducks. This isn't just a game; it's a statement to reclaim Big Ten dominance after Oregon's 13-1 campaign last year. We're thrilled to welcome Dale Bliss, Autzen Zoo writer, for an in-depth chat on this matchup! Bliss provides a behind enemy lines look at the Oregon Ducks, who won their rivalry game last week with ease. Forget the hype—victory comes down to the trenches in this heavyweight slugfest. Penn State's elite D-line, led by Dani Dennis-Sutton (4 sacks, 3 forced fumbles) and a disruptive Zane Durant, must neutralize Oregon's explosive offense, which has averaged 54 points per game while crushing foes 162-30 to start 4-0. On the flip side, PSU's O-line faces Lanning's aggressive front—can they avoid the missed assignments that plagued early drives and give Allar clean pockets? Drew Allar vs. Oregon's secondary: will they let him run the ball? PSU's secondary vs. Ducks QB Dante Moore. Special teams shoutout: Gabe Nwosu's leg and Ryan Barker's boot could flip field position in a close one. With both teams unbeaten, a Lions W vaults them to No. 1 and sets up a monster Ohio State rematch.
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#WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions
WEEK 5 PICK'EM

Ep. 194 | Champagne Supernova

Join the Hardcore Penn State Football Podcast as we break down No. 2 Penn State’s commanding 52-6 victory over Villanova in Week 3 at Beaver Stadium! The Nittany Lions surged to 3-0 behind a ferocious defense and a balanced offensive attack, piling up 500+ total yards while limiting the Wildcats to just 182. With a well-timed BYE week ahead of the Big Ten opener against No. 6 Oregon, this blowout keeps PSU firmly in the playoff conversation—but not without some lingering concerns. We’re unpacking the film, the highlights, and what needs fixing to stay elite. Let’s roll! Drew Allar put up solid numbers against Villanova—24-of-32 for 280 yards and three TDs—but his streaky tendencies reared their head again, including a first-half interception on a forced checkdown that Omari Bursey snagged for the Wildcats' lone early momentum shift. Allar bounced back with dimes to Trebor Peña (23-yard TD) and Kyron Hudson, but the boom-or-bust pattern—elite lasers mixed with underthrows and hesitation under light pressure—has fans asking: Has he regressed from preseason hype, or is this just Week 3 rust against an FCS foe? With Oregon's pass rush looming, Allar's consistency will be make-or-break. Penn State’s defense is a juggernaut, holding Villanova to 2-of-12 on third downs, 3.2 yards per carry, and forcing two turnovers in a near-shutout effort (Villanova's garbage-time TD came with zeros on the clock). True freshman CB Jahmir Joseph emerged as the star, snagging his first career interception—a great baiting of the QB—and returning it 49 yards for a back-breaking pick-6. Tony Rojas added two sacks, Zuriah Fisher terrorized the edges, and the unit’s physicality was on full display. Under DC Jim Knowles, this group is swarming, turnover-prone, and absolutely terrifying—is it the best in the country?BYE Week Focus: What Must PSU Improve Before Oregon? The 52-6 thrashing was fun, but the BYE offers prime time to polish rough edges. Offensively, the line still whiffed on a few assignments, leading to stalled red-zone drives (though Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen combined for 160 rushing yards and three TDs). Third-down conversions ticked up to 7-of-14, but efficiency in two-minute drills needs work to counter Oregon’s tempo. Defensively, run fits were solid, but coverage lapses allowed a late score—nothing major, but details matter against top-10 talent. Special teams? Ryan Barker nailed three field goals (45, 42, and 28 yards), and Gabe Nwosu averaged 58 yards on punts. Coach Franklin’s offseason to-do: O-line cohesion, Allar’s footwork, and depth reps to keep the D fresh. Get it right, and PSU could be unstoppable. Subscribe for all things Hardcore Penn State Football as we recharge for Big Ten dominance.
 
Week 4 Pick'em

Ep. 193 | Execution

Join the Hardcore Penn State Football Podcast as we preview No. 2 Penn State’s Week 3 clash with Villanova at Beaver Stadium! Coming off a 2-0 start with a dominant 34-0 shutout over FIU, the Nittany Lions face an FCS opponent in Villanova, but with a massive Big Ten opener against No. 4 Oregon looming, this game is all about execution and momentum. We’re diving into what Penn State must do to stay sharp, why this tune-up matters, and how some of the AP Poll voters still hav the Lions reigning supreme at No. 1. Let’s break it down! After an inconsistent offensive showing against FIU—marked by Drew Allar’s 57.6% completion rate and a sluggish 3-of-12 third-down conversions—Penn State can’t afford to sleepwalk through this one. Coach James Franklin emphasized cleaning up the offensive line’s missed assignments and boosting the run game led by Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Expect Allar to target Kyron Hudson, Trebor Pena and Devonte Ross early to build rhythm. Can the Lions deliver a crisp, mistake-free performance to send a message before Oregon? This matchup is Penn State’s last chance to iron out kinks before hosting No. 4 Oregon in a Big Ten blockbuster that could shape their playoff path. The defense, led by Dani Dennis-Sutton and a resurgent Zuriah Fisher, has been lights-out, forcing turnovers and holding opponents to 354 combined yards over two games. Freshman DE Chaz Coleman’s emergence adds depth, but Villanova’s balanced attack will challenge PSU’s ability to stay disciplined. Offensively, it’s about consistency—can Allar shake off Week 2’s woes, and will the O-line finally gel? We’re analyzing how this game sets the stage for the Ducks and what Franklin’s staff must prioritize. Despite some offensive hiccups, some of the AP Poll voters remain all-in on Penn State, holding the Nittany Lions at No. 1 for the third straight week. The shutout of FIU and Week 1’s 46-11 rout of Nevada have voters sold on PSU’s elite defense and upside, even with Oregon, Ohio State, and Texas nipping at their heels. We’re debating whether the Lions deserve the top spot, how their résumé stacks up, and what a dominant win over Villanova could do to solidify their ranking before the Big Ten gauntlet begins. Will Gabe Nwosu’s booming 70-yard punt from Week 2 flip the field again? Can Ryan Barker stay perfect on field goals? And which under-the-radar players—like S Antoine Belgrave-Shorter or RB Cam Wallace—might steal the show? We’re breaking down matchups, sharing our score predictions, and discussing how PSU NEEDS to demolish VIllanova. Plus, live listener Q&A, Allar’s ceiling, and whether this team is truly playoff-ready. Tune in now for the full preview—We Eat! Don’t miss our analysis, bold takes, and all things Penn State as we gear up for Villanova and beyond. Ensure you are subscribed! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions
WEEK 3 PICK'EM
 

Ep. 192 | Yellow Light

Join the Hardcore Penn State Football Podcast as we dissect No. 2 Penn State’s 34-0 shutout victory over FIU in Week Two at Beaver Stadium! The Nittany Lions moved to 2-0 with a dominant defensive performance and a late offensive surge, but the road to a Big Ten title and playoff berth looks bumpy after another uneven showing. With 104,000 fans braving the rain in Happy Valley, we’re breaking down the key moments, concerns, and bright spots from this lopsided win, plus a look at Penn State alums shining in NFL Week 1. Let’s dive in! Senior QB Drew Allar followed his stellar Week 1 with a frustratingly inconsistent performance against FIU, completing 19 of 33 passes for 200 yards and two TDs but struggling to find rhythm. Early miscues, including a missed swing pass to Nick Singleton and underthrown deep balls, led to a sluggish first half with just 10 points. Allar’s highlight was a gorgeous 42-yard TD pass to Devonte Ross, but his 57.6% completion rate and visible frustration—mimicking tearing his jersey after a miss—sparked fan debate. Is this a blip, or a sign of deeper issues for the senior signal-caller? The offensive line, expected to be a strength, had another rough outing, with missed assignments stalling drives and limiting the ground attack. Despite Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton combining for over 200 rushing yards and two TDs, the unit lacked consistency, contributing to a measly 3-of-12 third-down conversions. Coach James Franklin called out the sloppy execution, and with tougher tests like Ohio State looming, the O-line’s struggles are a yellow flag. Can they clean it up before Big Ten play? The defensive line was a bright spot, stepping up big in the shutout. Freshman DE Chaz Coleman made his presence felt, showing promise with disruptive plays and earning praise for his potential as a future star. Veteran DE Zuriah Fisher’s return added juice, bolstering a unit that held FIU to just 151 total yards and forced a turnover on an Alonzo Ford interception. With Tony Rojas racking up 10 tackles, this D-line looks ready to carry Penn State’s defense under new DC Jim Knowles. Are they the key to a top-tier season? Special teams delivered a highlight with punter Gabe Nwosu unleashing a monstrous 70-yard punt that flipped the field and energized the soggy Beaver Stadium crowd. The bomb pinned FIU deep, showcasing Nwosu’s leg and potential as a weapon in the field-position battle. Ryan Barker also chipped in with two field goals (41 and 34 yards), though a 53-yarder was blocked. Special teams could be a difference-maker this year! While the current Nittany Lions grind, Penn State alums lit up NFL Week 1! We’ll recap how PSU’s pros are carrying the #WeAre spirit on the big stage! Despite the 2-0 start, Penn State’s sluggish offense and Allar’s inconsistency raise concerns as they head into a crucial stretch. Can the O-line gel, and will Allar find his form? The defense and special teams look elite, but is it enough to compete with the Big Ten’s best? We’re previewing the upcoming slate, analyzing their play, and tackling your listener questions on whether we should be concerned about this performance. Tune in now for the full breakdown. Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for all things Hardcore Penn State Football. #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions
 
WEEK 3 B1G PICK'EM (Free to Play)

Ep. 191 | Going International

Welcome to another episode of the Hardcore Penn State Football Podcast, where we dive deep into all things Nittany Lions! In this week's action-packed installment, we're breaking down Penn State's upcoming matchup against the Florida International (FIU) Panthers on Saturday, September 6, at Beaver Stadium (12:00 PM ET on Big Ten Network). Coming off a dominant 46-11 season-opening win over Nevada, the No. 2-ranked Nittany Lions (1-0) look to keep the momentum rolling against a rebuilding FIU squad (1-0) that's fresh off a 42-9 thrashing of Bethune-Cookman in their opener under new head coach Willie Simmons. James Franklin's crew is loaded with talent—Drew Allar at QB, the dynamic duo of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen in the backfield, and a revamped receiving corps featuring transfers like Kyron Hudson and Trebor Pena. But can they stay sharp against a Panthers team led by pocket-passer star Keyone Jenkins? We've got the inside scoop on practice notes, a full FIU breakdown, and our bold game predictions. Whether you're tailgating in Happy Valley or watching from afar, this episode has everything you need to get hyped for another W! The boys wrap up the episode discussing PSU's potential move from Nike to Adidas. #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions
WEEK 2 PICK'EM

Ep. 190 | Receivers!

Join the Hardcore Penn State Football Podcast as we break down the No. 2 Nittany Lions' commanding 46-11 victory over Nevada in Week One at Beaver Stadium! With over 106,000 fans roaring in Happy Valley, Penn State kicked off the 2025 campaign in style, forcing three turnovers and piling up 438 total yards. But while the win was decisive, it's clear there's work to be done as the Lions gear up for a Big Ten title run and beyond. We're diving deep into the highs, lows, and what it all means for James Franklin's squad. Senior QB Drew Allar wasted no time asserting himself, going 22-of-26 for 217 yards and a touchdown in a poised performance that showed his growth heading into what could be a Heisman-contending year. He spread the ball to five different receivers, including a dagger 31-yard strike to transfer Kyron Hudson that capped a slick two-minute drill before halftime. Allar's accuracy and decision-making kept the chains moving, proving he's ready to lead this high-powered offense to new heights. The passing game wasn't just Allar—our wideouts flashed serious potential! Hudson led the charge with six catches for 89 yards and that key score, while Syracuse transfer Trebor Peña hauled in seven receptions for big chunks of yards. Devonte Ross also got involved with a nice grab on a pivotal first down-converting grab. These guys looked like the consistent weapons we've been waiting for, creating separation and making plays downfield. If they build on this chemistry, Penn State's aerial attack could be unstoppable. On defense, it was all about chaos, and senior DE Dani Dennis-Sutton was the star of the show! The edge rusher terrorized Nevada's line all afternoon, notching five tackles (2.5 for loss), a sack, a pass breakup, AND a career-high two forced fumbles—one on the Wolf Pack's opening drive recovered by A.J. Harris, and another in the third quarter scooped by Zakee Wheatley at the Nevada 16. Add in Zane Durant's first career interception, and this unit held Nevada to just 203 yards and 78 on the ground. Under new DC Jim Knowles, the D is already playing like a top-10 group—disruptive, turnover-hungry, and dominant. Shoutout to redshirt sophomore Ryan Barker for a flawless day on special teams! He nailed all four of his field goal attempts, including a career-long 39-yarder, matching his personal best and adding 12 crucial points to the scoreboard. From 28 yards twice to that bomber from 39, Barker was money when the offense stalled near the red zone. Reliability like this could be a game-changer in tight Big Ten battles down the road. That said, it's not all sunshine—there's room to grow. The offensive line, expected to be one of the nation's best, had some ugly missed assignments that disrupted rhythm and limited explosive plays up front. The run game, led by the dynamic duo of Nicholas Singleton (two TDs) and Kaytron Allen (13-yard score and 43 yards), totaled solid yards but lacked the punch we saw in previous seasons. Singleton and Allen combined for three rushing scores, but consistency on the ground will be key against tougher fronts like Ohio State and Michigan. Coach Franklin called out the sloppiness post-game; expect those reps to sharpen up quick. What's Next for the Lions? This win sets a strong tone, but with road games looming and a schedule stacked with contenders, Penn State can't afford complacency. We're discussing the Nevada game, taking fan questions, and breaking down the Monday Press Conference. Tune in now for the full breakdown. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that notification bell for all things Hardcore Penn State Football.
 
Week 2 Pick'em

Ep. 189 | Season Begins

Get ready for an explosive episode as we dive into Penn State Football’s Week 2 clash with Nevada! Hosted by Cory & Shawn, we’re joined by special guest Zach Seyko from Locked On Nittany Lions for a deep dive into the Nittany Lions’ game plan, key matchups, and bold predictions. Will PSU’s passing offense explode? Can the defense shut down Nevada’s motion-filled attack? We break it all down! Main Topics: Nevada Preview: Strengths, weaknesses, and X-factors for PSU’s home opener. Is Drew Allar ready to shine? Big Ten Pick'em: Our weekly picks for the conference’s biggest games—join the fun and share your predictions! Zach Seyko’s Insights: From recruiting to game-day strategy, Zach drops exclusive takes on PSU’s 2025 season.

Ep. 188 | Season Preview & Predictions

Cory & Shawn are back to cover their 4th season of Penn State Football. In this episode they preview the Nittany Lions season. Where do they end up? Will they meet expectations? Will they finally get over the hump? What is the hump? Is this their window? Where does Penn State have the most depth? Where are they thin? Finally, they give you their bold predictions and their season predictions!
 
Week 1 Pick'em