Penn State football is set to make history as it prepares for its first-ever College Football Playoff (CFP) game against the SMU Mustangs on December 21 at Beaver Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for noon. This momentous occasion comes after a decade filled with close calls and missed opportunities, cementing the Nittany Lions’ place in the newly expanded 12-team playoff format.
Penn State enters the playoffs ranked sixth, despite a narrow loss to the top-ranked Oregon Ducks in the Big Ten Championship Game. The Nittany Lions’ consistent performance throughout the season, including their record-setting 11-win regular season under coach James Franklin, has positioned them favorably in the playoff rankings. This achievement marks the first time Penn State has secured 11 regular-season wins since 2007.
In their playoff opener, the Nittany Lions will face the Mustangs, who boast an impressive 11-2 record, with both losses coming by a field goal against ranked opponents. The outcome of this game will determine whether Penn State advances to face Boise State in the playoff quarterfinals at the Fiesta Bowl on New Year’s Eve.
As the playoff structure evolves, the introduction of the 12-team format allows teams like Penn State, which previously missed out in a four-team system, to showcase their talents on a national stage. Despite enduring some setbacks this season, Penn State’s resilience and ability to compete against top-tier teams set the stage for a hopeful and exciting playoff run.
In addition to this pivotal matchup, the playoff landscape includes prominent teams like Oregon, Georgia, and Alabama, with each presenting their own challenges. The coming weeks will be critical for not just Penn State but for all teams looking to emerge as national champions.
As Penn State gears up for this landmark moment in its football history, fans and players alike are filled with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling playoff experience. The Nittany Lions’ journey is a testament to their hard work and dedication, reminding us that with determination and skill, opportunities for greatness can arise even after years of challenges. This is not just a game; it’s a new chapter for the Penn State football program.