Penn State surged into the spotlight, anxious to defeat Notre Dame and go to the national championship. A semifinal appearance in the College Football Playoff did not make up for its previous high-stakes failures. Simply put, Thursday night’s Orange Bowl was a game that defined the program, and head coach James Franklin entered the locker room with yet another heartbreaking loss on his career.
He was compelled to follow a familiar routine: address the media after losing to a top-five opponent. Franklin wasn’t alone, as running back Nick Singleton and quarterback Drew Allar fielded questions from media while also reflecting on the conclusion of their seasons. The former rushed for three touchdowns and gained over 100 yards from scrimmage. The latter labored hard, throwing for only 135 yards before surrendering the game-winning interception with just over 30 seconds left in regulation.
However, Franklin did not point fingers. He praised both players after the 27-24 loss. “Could not be more proud of these two young men,” the 11-year Nittany Lions head coach told The Athletic’s Audrey Snyder.
The comments section mocks Allar, but Franklin praises him. He’s not just talking about the rookie quarterback’s play, though there isn’t much to applaud in terms of execution. No, Franklin is presumably applauding Allar’s character and determination.
James Franklin shows Drew Allar some love during a low moment
The 20-year-old from Medina, Ohio, did not rise to the occasion on this night, but he certainly earns his coach’s respect. Allar improved dramatically as a passer this season, and while he struggled down the line, he offered Penn State fans hope that the national championship could finally be a realistic goal.
In the end, however, the program remains in the same spot it has been for much of the James Franklin era. The Lions are a competent but not outstanding squad that struggles against top-tier opposition. There is enough accountability to go around. Allar made critical errors, the wide receivers were uncharacteristically quiet, and the defense struggled in the second half.
The game-changing interception will overshadow everything else because of the timing, but cornerback Cam Miller slipped on Jaden Greathouse’s 54-yard game-tying score late in the fourth quarter. Penn State football, led by the much-maligned Franklin, fell short at Hard Rock Stadium.
When the CFP began, the opinion was that this squad had a very clear road to the semifinals and a crack at the championship game. Based on how the bracket turned out, it’s difficult for supporters to enjoy the overall experience. Franklin, on the other hand, is doing his utmost to highlight some of the positive aspects of the 2024-25 voyage.
However, his pride must be accompanied by actual accomplishments. Ideally, Drew Allar and the rest of the Nittany Lions will soon learn from this excruciating defeat and turn it into a compelling redemption narrative. One thing is certain: University Park is eager for the story of Penn State football to come to an end.
