Ep. 190 | Receivers!

Join the Hardcore Penn State Football Podcast as we break down the No. 2 Nittany Lions' commanding 46-11 victory over Nevada in Week One at Beaver Stadium! With over 106,000 fans roaring in Happy Valley, Penn State kicked off the 2025 campaign in style, forcing three turnovers and piling up 438 total yards. But while the win was decisive, it's clear there's work to be done as the Lions gear up for a Big Ten title run and beyond. We're diving deep into the highs, lows, and what it all means for James Franklin's squad. Senior QB Drew Allar wasted no time asserting himself, going 22-of-26 for 217 yards and a touchdown in a poised performance that showed his growth heading into what could be a Heisman-contending year. He spread the ball to five different receivers, including a dagger 31-yard strike to transfer Kyron Hudson that capped a slick two-minute drill before halftime. Allar's accuracy and decision-making kept the chains moving, proving he's ready to lead this high-powered offense to new heights. The passing game wasn't just Allar—our wideouts flashed serious potential! Hudson led the charge with six catches for 89 yards and that key score, while Syracuse transfer Trebor Peña hauled in seven receptions for big chunks of yards. Devonte Ross also got involved with a nice grab on a pivotal first down-converting grab. These guys looked like the consistent weapons we've been waiting for, creating separation and making plays downfield. If they build on this chemistry, Penn State's aerial attack could be unstoppable. On defense, it was all about chaos, and senior DE Dani Dennis-Sutton was the star of the show! The edge rusher terrorized Nevada's line all afternoon, notching five tackles (2.5 for loss), a sack, a pass breakup, AND a career-high two forced fumbles—one on the Wolf Pack's opening drive recovered by A.J. Harris, and another in the third quarter scooped by Zakee Wheatley at the Nevada 16. Add in Zane Durant's first career interception, and this unit held Nevada to just 203 yards and 78 on the ground. Under new DC Jim Knowles, the D is already playing like a top-10 group—disruptive, turnover-hungry, and dominant. Shoutout to redshirt sophomore Ryan Barker for a flawless day on special teams! He nailed all four of his field goal attempts, including a career-long 39-yarder, matching his personal best and adding 12 crucial points to the scoreboard. From 28 yards twice to that bomber from 39, Barker was money when the offense stalled near the red zone. Reliability like this could be a game-changer in tight Big Ten battles down the road. That said, it's not all sunshine—there's room to grow. The offensive line, expected to be one of the nation's best, had some ugly missed assignments that disrupted rhythm and limited explosive plays up front. The run game, led by the dynamic duo of Nicholas Singleton (two TDs) and Kaytron Allen (13-yard score and 43 yards), totaled solid yards but lacked the punch we saw in previous seasons. Singleton and Allen combined for three rushing scores, but consistency on the ground will be key against tougher fronts like Ohio State and Michigan. Coach Franklin called out the sloppiness post-game; expect those reps to sharpen up quick. What's Next for the Lions? This win sets a strong tone, but with road games looming and a schedule stacked with contenders, Penn State can't afford complacency. We're discussing the Nevada game, taking fan questions, and breaking down the Monday Press Conference. Tune in now for the full breakdown. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that notification bell for all things Hardcore Penn State Football.

 

Week 2 Pick'em