Particle.news
Download on the App Store
7 ARTICLES
·
2w ago

Media Figures Challenge Penn State’s No. 2 AP Preseason Ranking

Critics cite coach James Franklin’s postseason track record—analysts maintain that returning stars alongside looming games against Oregon, Ohio State, Indiana will decide the ranking’s validity.

Image
Image
Nov 9, 2024; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning leads his team before the start of a game against the Maryland Terrapins at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Penn State head coach James Franklin walks the sideline in the first half of an NCAA football game against West Virginia, Saturday, August 31, 2024, in Morgantown, W. Va.

Overview

  • The AP preseason poll released Aug. 11 placed Penn State second nationally behind Texas.
  • ESPN analyst Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo on Aug. 13 called the ranking “stupid,” pointing to Franklin’s combined 4-16 record against Ohio State and Michigan and perceived big-game shortcomings.
  • Paul Finebaum echoed skepticism during a SportsCenter appearance, saying he would believe the ranking when Penn State wins a high-profile matchup.
  • Defenders argue the Nittany Lions merit the No. 2 spot given the return of key starters Drew Allar, Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen.
  • Analysts highlight home games vs. No. 7 Oregon (Sept. 27) and No. 20 Indiana (Nov. 8), plus the road trip to No. 3 Ohio State (Nov. 1), as the true tests before CFP rankings arrive midseason.