Penn State’s quarterback room saw a shift this offseason, but one thing remains clear: Drew Allar is setting the standard for preparation. True freshman Ethan Grunkmeyer, who stepped into the QB2 role after Beau Pribula’s transfer, has had a front-row seat to Allar’s relentless work ethic.
As Grunkmeyer prepares for his second year with the Nittany Lions, he continues to absorb lessons from one of the Big Ten’s top quarterbacks.
Ethan Grunkmeyer Learning From Workhorse Drew Allar
Grunkmeyer spent most of his freshman season learning behind Allar without the pressure of immediate playing time. That changed when the College Football Playoff arrived.
With Pribula gone, Grunkmeyer became Penn State’s official backup, even getting a taste of live action in a blowout win over SMU.
Reflecting on his first year, Grunkmeyer called it a “huge learning experience,” in an interview with Daniel Mader. He noted the stark differences between his early-season mindset and the confidence he gained by year’s end.
The transition from a third-string quarterback to the No. 2 option required a new level of preparation—something he quickly learned by watching Allar.
“He’s just a workaholic,” Grunkmeyer said. “That guy’s in the facility more than a lot of people, other than maybe some of the coaches.”
Allar’s dedication isn’t just about time spent in the building. His approach to film study, avoiding distractions like social media, and moving past mistakes left an impression on Grunkmeyer. The young quarterback has taken notes on Allar’s habits, hoping to implement them in his own development.
Grunkmeyer still has a list of questions for Allar, particularly about how he studies NFL quarterbacks. With Allar set to return as Penn State’s starter in 2025, Grunkmeyer has another year to learn from one of the best.
Beyond individual growth, chemistry with Penn State’s evolving receiver corps is also a priority. The 2025 wide receiver room will look different, with transfers Kyron Hudson and Devonte Ross entering the mix.
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While Allar will take the lead in developing that connection, Grunkmeyer knows his image with these receivers could shape the team’s future beyond next season. “We’ve got a ton of great work in with [the new receivers] already,” Grunkmeyer said. “That trust factor is huge.”
As Penn State moves into the next phase of its offensive evolution, Grunkmeyer positions himself as the heir apparent. For now, though, he’s focused on learning everything he can from Allar.
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