The Penn State Nittany Lions entered Camp Randall Stadium seeking to leave Wisconsin still undefeated. James Franklin’s team accomplished that goal, defeating the Badgers 28-13. However, the win came at a cost, as starting quarterback Drew Allar left the game with an apparent knee injury. Ironically, while the Lions triumphed on a site that once served as a Union Army base, they may face significant challenges for the remainder of the season.
Missed Opportunities
Though the final score suggests a comfortable margin, Wisconsin largely controlled the game and deserved a better fate. The Badgers’ self-inflicted mistakes, however, undermined their efforts. They dropped at least half a dozen passes that stalled drives; receivers found separation and were open, but the ball slipped through their hands, leading to their unraveling. Additionally, quarterback Braedyn Locke’s decision-making warrants scrutiny. Backed up near his own goal line, he gambled instead of playing conservatively, resulting in a pick-six thrown directly to a Penn State defender. In an instant, the air was let out of the stadium, as one ill-timed throw negated much of the defense’s hard work in containing the Lions.
Photo Cred: Terrance Biggs
A Hero Emerges
When Allar slammed his helmet to the turf, it was clear his day was over. Backup quarterback Bo Pribula stepped in, completing 84% of his passes and throwing a touchdown. However, it was Pribula’s mobility that made the difference. Unlike the pocket-bound Allar, Pribula was able to move and extend plays. While six carries for 28 yards may not seem impressive, many of those yards came at crucial moments. They allowed drives to continue and shifting the momentum in favor of Penn State.
Longo’s Sorcery
Despite the loss, Wisconsin offensive coordinator Phil Longo demonstrated exceptional play-calling and design. The Badgers created opportunities in both the run and pass games. If not for drops and poorly thrown passes, their offensive plan could have been more effective. Before the interception return, Penn State had no answers, as Wisconsin moved the ball with ease. With an upgrade at skill positions in the future, the Badgers could evolve into an exciting offense, a stark contrast to their recent history.
Immediate Future for the Nittany Lions
Penn State will return home to Happy Valley to face an angry Ohio State team eager to hand the Lions a loss while improving their own playoff chances. This upcoming game is arguably the most critical contest in James Franklin’s coaching career. With a record of 1-9 against the Buckeyes, Franklin faces the daunting task of either exorcising the demons of past seasons or allowing the misery to continue. There’s no need for hyperbole—this is a pivotal moment.
Photo Cred: Terrance Biggs
The Badgers’ Destiny
Following a trip to Iowa to face the Hawkeyes, Wisconsin will return to Madison to host the undefeated, top-ranked Oregon Ducks. Barring a catastrophic collapse, the Badgers are on track for bowl eligibility, which would cap a decent 2024 season. However, for a fanbase that expects excellence from the Packers, Bucks, and Brewers, settling for mediocrity in college football feels inadequate. Wisconsin possesses the resources and facilities to become a formidable Big Ten contender. With Luke Fickell and Phil Longo at the helm, the Badgers have the potential to achieve greater success in the seasons to come.
