Penn State Reveals Key Position Battles Ahead of Season Opener

With the 2025 season just around the corner, Penn State head coach James Franklin recently provided updates on several key position battles within the Nittany Lions' roster. As the No. 3 team in the nation gets set to host Nevada in their season opener, Franklin hinted at who could see the most playing time early on.

The race for Penn State's backup quarterback position remains close, with redshirt sophomore Jaxon Smolik and redshirt freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer competing for the role. Franklin said he has decided on the winner, but has not yet revealed the decision, as the two will continue to battle it out as the season kicks off.

In the receiving corps, Franklin named his top six wideouts, including veteran options like Kyron Hudson, Trebor Peña, and Devonte Ross, as well as younger talents Tyseer Denmark and Koby Howard. However, the coach noted that Ross, a transfer from Troy, will be more limited early on due to an injury that impacted his summer preparation.

Perhaps the biggest news from Monday's press conference came at the safety position, where redshirt freshman Antoine Belgrave-Shorter was named the Week 1 starter opposite Zakee Wheatley. Franklin praised Belgrave-Shorter's performance in camp, saying he led the defense in turnovers and earned the starting nod, though Dejuan Lane and Alabama transfer King Mack will also see significant playing time.

Across the offensive line, Franklin revealed that seven players will be considered "starters" this season, with the Nittany Lions expected to utilize packages featuring six or seven linemen. This group includes veterans like Nick Dawkins and Nolan Rucci, as well as Texas A&M transfer TJ Shanahan Jr.