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2w ago

Penn State Tops Big Ten Preseason Polls as Franklin Earns Coach of the Year Honor

Analysts say Franklin’s 4–19 record versus top-10 opponents will face sharp scrutiny under Penn State’s new favorite status

Jul 22, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti speaks to the media during the Big Ten NCAA college football media days at Mandalay Bay Resort. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Cleveland.com’s 15th annual poll made Penn State the Big Ten preseason favorite for the first time with 11 of 25 first-place votes
  • USA TODAY Sports power rankings also placed the Nittany Lions at No. 1, citing roster experience and depth at quarterback and skill positions
  • James Franklin edged Illinois’ Bret Bielema by a single vote (10–9) to claim Big Ten preseason Coach of the Year recognition
  • Key returnees include quarterback Drew Allar and 1,000-yard rushers Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton, bolstering offensive continuity
  • Critics highlight Franklin’s 4–19 record against AP top-10 teams and point to a November trip to Ohio State as the ultimate test of Penn State’s title credentials