Overview

• Abdul Carter, Penn State's All-American defensive end, sustained an apparent arm injury during the Fiesta Bowl victory over Boise State and did not return after the second quarter.
• Head coach James Franklin expressed optimism about Carter's potential to play in the Orange Bowl but noted it is still too early to confirm his availability.
• Carter, the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, has been a dominant force this season with 21.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, and 63 total tackles.
• Penn State will face Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff semifinal on Thursday, with Carter's status being a key storyline leading up to the game.
• The Nittany Lions are preparing for the matchup with contributions from other defensive ends, including Amin Vanover, Smith Vilbert, and freshman Max Granville, in case Carter is unavailable.