In a crucial matchup, No. 3 Penn State triumphed over Wisconsin with a score of 28-13, but concerns loom regarding quarterback Drew Allar’s availability for next week’s game against fourth-ranked Ohio State due to a left knee injury. Allar exited the game late in the second quarter, walking carefully to the locker room with a trainer.
Although he attempted to return for the second half, Allar ultimately informed the coaching staff that he felt unable to perform effectively. Penn State head coach James Franklin initially hoped Allar could continue, stating, “Is he going to be mobile enough to give us a chance to run the offense?” After a brief warm-up, Allar felt he could not move well enough to play.
Prior to his injury, Allar had a strong performance, completing 14 of 18 passes for 148 yards and one touchdown, and was ranked sixth nationally with a QBR of 86.8. The spotlight then shifted to sophomore Beau Pribula, who stepped in for Allar. Pribula excelled, completing 11 of 13 passes for 98 yards and a touchdown, while also gaining 28 rushing yards. Franklin described Pribula’s performance as “gutsy,” helping the Nittany Lions maintain their undefeated record at 7-0.
Pribula, who only had 31 career attempts before this game, indicated he was ready when Allar experienced his injury. “We weren’t sure going into halftime if Drew was going to come back or not,” Pribula said. He led a pivotal 13-play, 81-yard touchdown drive, culminating in a 1-yard touchdown pass to Khalil Dinkins, providing Penn State a critical 21-13 lead late in the game.
After the touchdown, Allar celebrated with Pribula on the field, showcasing team camaraderie. Looking ahead, the upcoming game against Ohio State is expected to be significant for both the Big Ten title and the College Football Playoff discussions. Pribula acknowledged the importance of the week ahead, stating, “This is a huge week. Everybody’s already — we’re going to put this win behind us pretty fast. We know the stakes.”