Is Penn State Ranked Too High?

 


The first Top 25 AP Poll is out. 

Is Penn State Ranked Too High?

Penn State opens the 2025 season ranked No. 2 in the AP poll, trailing only Texas and ahead of heavyweights like Georgia, Ohio State, and Clemson. After a 13-3 season and a dominant rushing attack, the ranking reflects rising national belief — and it might be more justified than some think.

Why the Ranking Might Be Justified

- **Elite Backfield**: Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton return after combining for over 2,300 yards, forming one of the most feared rushing duos in college football.

- **Revamped Receiver Room**: Penn State aggressively upgraded its wide receiver corps through the transfer portal, adding speed and experience to complement its ground game and stretch defenses vertically.

- **Drew Allar’s Potential**: The former five-star quarterback has the tools to be elite — and if he puts it all together, he’s projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. That kind of upside gives Penn State a championship-caliber ceiling.

- **Program Momentum**: A 13-3 record and strong finish in 2024 show they’re not just surging — they’re sustaining.

Why It Might Be Slightly Premature

- **Unproven Balance**: While the talent is there, Penn State still needs to prove it can consistently execute a balanced offense against elite competition.

- **Playoff Pedigree**: Unlike Georgia or Ohio State, Penn State hasn’t broken through to the national title game in recent years, which makes a No. 2 ranking feel like a projection more than a confirmation.

- **Early Schedule Softness**: Opening against Nevada won’t offer much resistance or validation for such a lofty ranking.

**Verdict**: Penn State’s No. 2 ranking is bold — but not baseless. With a dominant run game, a retooled receiver room, and a quarterback who could be the top pick in next year’s draft, they have the ingredients to justify the hype. 

James Franklin & Co have worked for years for this squad and this moment. 

Now it’s about proving it on the field.

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