The performance of individual players and position groups can be pivotal in college football, often determining the success of a season. Quarterbacks like Drew Allar for Penn State represent high stakes, especially with their potential impact on playoff outcomes. Allar's previous performances in crucial games have raised concerns, making this season a critical one for him. Additionally, for teams like the Tigers, improving weak areas such as rush defense is equally important to achieve success and avoid putting coaches on the hot seat.
Penn State enters what appears to be an all-in season, and Allar has the ingredients to be the top NFL quarterback prospect for the 2026 draft. But his play under the brightest of lights has left something to be desired. He hasn't beaten Ohio State or Michigan, he delivered some good moments in a Big Ten championship game loss to Oregon but was still intercepted twice, and threw the crucial interception in a CFP semifinal loss to Notre Dame. Penn State has made the necessary investments around Allar, who will share a backfield with probably the nation's top running back tandem. The time has come for the senior to be at his best in the biggest moments. If he delivers, Penn State will have a real chance at its first national title since 1986.
Though the Tigers have had standout players across their front seven over the past few years, that group has fallen short in one particular area -- rush defense -- and it became glaring last season. The truth is, its decline began when Wes Goodwin took over as defensive coordinator.
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