College football thrives on tradition, and few are as storied and vibrant as Penn State’s renowned ‘White Out.’ This electrifying spectacle, which began during a narrow 20-13 loss to No. 9 Purdue in 2004, has evolved into a cornerstone event for the Nittany Lions, drawing massive crowds and creating a unique game-day atmosphere.
This weekend, Beaver Stadium is set to host another iconic ‘White Out’ as No. 3 Penn State prepares to face off against No. 6 Oregon, marking one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. Breaking from recent trends, which saw FOX advocating for earlier kickoffs, this game will commence in prime-time at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC—a decision welcomed by Penn State head coach James Franklin.
During his appearance on ‘The Pat McAfee Show,’ Franklin praised FOX for their coverage but emphasized the distinctive allure of night games. “The night games are different,” Franklin remarked, highlighting the early arrival of enthusiastic RVs and the charged atmosphere that builds throughout the day. With both teams ranked in the top six, this ‘White Out’ promises to be extraordinary.
Franklin previously expressed his disappointment with noon kickoffs during a Wednesday press conference, underscoring the special nature of a typical game at Beaver Stadium, which regularly attracts crowds of approximately 106,000. The ‘White Out,’ he noted, is a cherished event that elevates the game-day experience to new heights with a sea of white in the stands intensifying the ambiance.
Despite FOX’s past assertions that noon games could rival the excitement of evening matchups, Franklin and the Nittany Lion faithful believe otherwise. The stark contrast of white and black uniforms under the night sky, combined with the palpable anticipation among students and fans, makes the ‘White Out’ a cultural hallmark in college football.
As Penn State and Oregon both enter the game with undefeated records, their paths to this pivotal Big Ten clash have differed markedly. While the Nittany Lions have yet to secure a victory against a Power Four team, the Ducks boast impressive wins over formidable opponents such as Oklahoma State, Northwestern, and Oregon State.
Historically, Penn State holds a 13-8 record in ‘White Out’ games. This Saturday’s showdown not only promises a thrilling contest between two undefeated giants but also highlights the enduring spirit and tradition of college football that continues to captivate fans across the nation.