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Opt-Out Chaos: Penn State, Clemson Face Bowl Season Short-Staffed
24 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Both Penn State and Clemson met low expectations, saving their seasons with late winning streaks.
- Clemson faces significant opt-outs, losing seven offensive and seven defensive starters.
- Penn State's interim coach aims for a strong finish despite numerous player departures.
The Pinstripe Bowl will feature a matchup between Penn State and Clemson, two teams that began the season with high hopes but ended up needing late-season winning streaks to even qualify for bowl eligibility. Penn State, after firing head coach James Franklin in October, rallied under interim coach Terry Smith. Despite significant opt-outs including running back Nicholas Singleton and offensive guard Vega Ioane, the Nittany Lions are determined to perform well. Quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer is expected to lead the team, supported by key offensive players like Kaytron Allen and Trebor Pena.
Clemson faces an even more depleted roster for the bowl game. Head coach Dabo Swinney confirmed that seven offensive starters and seven defensive starters would be absent due to draft preparations, injuries, and transfer portal entries. Notable absences include linemen Peter Woods and T.J. Parker, and linebacker Wade Woodaz. Quarterback Cade Klubnik, however, plans to play, viewing the game as a crucial showcase before the NFL draft. He will be joined by top offensive weapons Adam Randall and T.J. Moore.
Both programs have faced fan restlessness regarding their performance in recent years. Clemson, in particular, has experienced its worst record since 2010, though a four-game winning streak salvaged their season. This marks only the second meeting between these two major programs, with Clemson having won their previous encounter in 1988. The Pinstripe Bowl has seen a streak of wins for the Big Ten representative over ACC teams.
