Who is playing in the Pinstripe Bowl between Penn State and Clemson?

Penn State and Clemson are playing in the Pinstripe Bowl, though both teams are experiencing significant player opt-outs.

Why are so many players opting out of the Penn State vs. Clemson game?

Players are opting out primarily due to NFL draft preparations, injuries, and decisions to enter the transfer portal.

What is the history between Penn State and Clemson?

Penn State and Clemson have met only once before, with Clemson winning decisively in the 1988 Citrus Bowl.

Home / Sports / Opt-Out Chaos: Penn State, Clemson Face Bowl Season Short-Staffed

Opt-Out Chaos: Penn State, Clemson Face Bowl Season Short-Staffed

24 Dec, 2025

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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.

Opt-Out Chaos: Penn State, Clemson Face Bowl Season Short-Staffed

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.