Penn State Football Reaches Highest Preseason Ranking in 28 Years

As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Penn State Nittany Lions have firmly established themselves as one of the top contenders in the nation. In the first Coaches Poll of the year, released on August 4th, 2025, Penn State has been ranked No. 3, their highest preseason standing since starting the 1997 season at No. 2.

This ranking is a testament to the immense talent and potential of Coach James Franklin's squad. Headlined by third-year starting quarterback Drew Allar, the Nittany Lions boast an enviable collection of offensive firepower. From the dynamic running back duo of Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen to a deep, experienced offensive line and a stacked tight end room, Penn State's offense is primed to be one of the most potent in the country. The team has also added three promising transfer receivers to help address their biggest weakness from the previous season.

On the defensive side of the ball, new coordinator Jim Knowles appears to have assembled another Top 10 unit, including potentially the fastest defensive back group in the nation. With this well-rounded roster, the Nittany Lions are poised to make a serious push for the national championship this year.

Despite the lofty expectations and increased attention, Coach Franklin has maintained that the team's goals and standards remain unchanged. "You know, we won 13 games, and like I mentioned, (were close to) playing for the national championship, and people were pissed," he said during the team's preseason media day. "That's what you sign up for when you come to Penn State, and so those expectations are always really high."