Home / Sports / Walk-on Rulli Earns Scholarship, Key Blocker
Walk-on Rulli Earns Scholarship, Key Blocker
15 Jul
Summary
- Dominic Rulli earned a scholarship after three years as a walk-on.
- He called the fake punt that secured a key 2024 win.
- Rulli is competing for a starting center role in 2025.
Dominic Rulli has carved out a notable role on the Penn State football team. After dedicating three seasons as a walk-on, Rulli was rewarded with a scholarship at the start of the 2025 season. Throughout his four years with the program, he has participated in 42 games, primarily contributing on special teams.
Rulli is widely recognized for his strategic play-calling, particularly for the fake punt that was instrumental in securing the 2024 Minnesota game victory. This play positioned Penn State for their College Football Playoff appearance. He also executed a critical block that facilitated a successful first-down conversion. In 2025, Rulli played in 13 games and started at center in the Pinstripe Bowl.
As Penn State's offensive line undergoes changes with three new starters, Rulli has an opportunity to compete for the starting center role. However, he faces significant competition from Texas State transfer Brock Riker. Regardless of securing the starting position, Rulli is anticipated to play a substantial role in the team's rotation this year. The upcoming season opener against Marshall is just 52 days away.
