Overview
- Terry Smith said, “We have a quarterback for the future,” highlighting Ethan Grunkemeyer’s progress following the Indiana game.
- Penn State has lost six straight since James Franklin’s firing, with Smith 0-3 as interim after close tests at Iowa, No. 1 Ohio State and No. 2 Indiana.
- Grunkemeyer’s outing vs. Indiana featured 219 passing yards, one touchdown and 71% completions, including a 13-for-18, 129-yard second half after an interception.
- The freshman took over after Drew Allar’s season-ending ankle injury and has faced growing pains with four interceptions in 67 attempts and seven sacks in three starts.
- Grunkemeyer said he is “absolutely” open to returning in 2026 if the opportunity is right, as staff and players await a new coach and transfer interest rises ahead of the Jan. 2 portal opening.