Following an exciting College Football Playoff that included a semifinal appearance, Penn State fans might be surprised by Spencer McLaughlin’s 2025 ranking of the Nittany Lions. McLaughlin positions them as the top football team in the Big Ten, ahead of formidable opponents like the Oregon Ducks and Ohio State Buckeyes.
Big Ten Title: Penn State’s Fate Hinges on Oregon & Ohio State Struggles
Penn State is generating significant buzz after their CFP semifinal run. The program boasts a strong roster, with key playmakers returning, including quarterback Drew Allar and running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Additionally, rising talents such as cornerback Elliot Washington II add to their potential.
Many anticipate Penn State dominating the Big Ten and being a strong CFP contender. In the latest episode of “Locked on College Football,” host McLaughlin suggests that now is the prime opportunity for the Nittany Lions to win the Big Ten. His reasoning? Their primary rivals, Oregon and Ohio State, are currently focused on rebuilding.
“By the way, Oregon, like Ohio State, is kind of in a soft reset this year. Just a lot of change, a lot of turnover, plenty of potential, a lot of recruiting talent, not a lot of proven talent, so Penn State is one of the most proven teams in the entire country.”
The Ducks had an exceptional 2024 season, finishing the regular season with a 12-0 record and defeating Penn State in the Big Ten championship to secure the conference title in their inaugural year as Big Ten members.
However, their national championship aspirations fell short with a loss to Ohio State in the Rose Bowl during the CFP. The 2025 season is expected to be challenging for the Ducks as they lose key players to graduation and the NFL. They are projected to have 10-11 players selected in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Buckeyes clinched the 2024 national championship on the strength of their offensive and defensive line play. However, they are now focused on rebuilding after 18 players, the most of any school, received invitations to the 2025 NFL Combine, including program standouts Will Howard, Jack Sawyer, and Emeka Egbuka, among others.
It will be interesting to observe how other traditional powerhouses, particularly Ohio State and Oregon, rebuild this offseason and whether they can unseat the Nittany Lions from the top position.
Regardless of whether one agrees with McLaughlin’s assessment, the Nittany Lions enter the 2025 season with significant expectations. If the numerous early rankings are any indication, Penn State is widely considered a legitimate title contender.
KEEP READING: 3 Reasons Penn State Might Finally Break Through in 2025
Penn State will hold its annual Blue-White Game on April 26 at Beaver Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 2:00 p.m. ET. Fans wishing to see James Franklin’s team in action must attend in person, as the game will not be televised.
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