Hardcore Penn State Football

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

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

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.

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

Boys return and go over the following in Penn State Football
Recruiting Recap
New Commit
Fan Questions
Michigan "punished"
How loud will the stadium be this year?
Make sure to subscribe!

Welcome back to Hardcore Penn State Football! Cory and Shawn return for their first live show in a while, sharing personal updates and discussing their renewed independence after parting ways with their former media partner. The hosts break down Penn State’s #2 preseason AP ranking, analyzing the Nittany Lions’ strengths and key questions for the season ahead.
They spotlight quarterback Drew Allar, tight end Khalil Dinkins, safety Zakee Wheatley, linebacker Tony Rojas, and wide receivers Kyron Hudson, Trebor Pena, and Devonte Ross, while discussing the impact of new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. The episode previews major matchups against Ohio State and Oregon, and compares Penn State to national contenders like Clemson, Texas, and Georgia.
Listener questions spark conversations about wide receiver prospects, coaching staff futures, and what it will take for Penn State to reach the next level. Don’t miss this lively season kickoff!

White Out = Oregon
Boys = Back

Blue & White Game
Penn State Portal Prowess
NFL Draft Results

Shawn & Cory are back to talk Spring Practice, NFL Draft, Recruiting Updates & moreOther topics:-Latest out of practice-Blue & White "Game"-Will Abdul Carter go No.1 in the NFL Draft?Guide:MERCH: https://shop.teammercury.io/FOLLOW HARDCORE PSU HERE:► TWITTER |   / hardcorepsufb  ► TIKTOK |   / hardcorepsufb  ► INSTAGRAM |   / hardcorepsufb  ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu  ► APPLE | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...► SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/411KekH...► LINKTREE | https://linktr.ee/hardcorepsufbFOLLOW STATE MEDIA HERE:► TWITTER |   / statemediapsu  ► TIKTOK |   / statemediapsu  ► INSTAGRAM |   / statemediapsu  ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu  Hardcore PSU is an underground, grass-roots, Penn State Football podcast dedicated to providing its listeners with useful stats, intriguing stories, credible news, and unique interviews. The show is co-hosted by Cory Lestochi and Shawn Kane. Hardcore PSU is presented by The Mercury Podcast Network.For sponsorships or business inquiries reach out to: ads@teammercury.io

Cory & Shawn are back to discuss the beginning of Spring Practice, the results of Pro Day, big news regarding PSU RB commits, and more!Other topics:-Key players out of practice-Who is stepping up?-Will Abdul Carter go No.1 in the NFL Draft?Guide:MERCH: https://shop.teammercury.io/FOLLOW HARDCORE PSU HERE:► TWITTER |   / hardcorepsufb  ► TIKTOK |   / hardcorepsufb  ► INSTAGRAM |   / hardcorepsufb  ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu  ► APPLE | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...► SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/411KekH...► LINKTREE | https://linktr.ee/hardcorepsufbFOLLOW STATE MEDIA HERE:► TWITTER |   / statemediapsu  ► TIKTOK |   / statemediapsu  ► INSTAGRAM |   / statemediapsu  ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu  Hardcore PSU is an underground, grass-roots, Penn State Football podcast dedicated to providing its listeners with useful stats, intriguing stories, credible news, and unique interviews. The show is co-hosted by Cory Lestochi and Shawn Kane. Hardcore PSU is presented by The Mercury Podcast Network.