Penn State football has a rich history of success, with two claimed national championships in 1982 and 1986 under Joe Paterno. The Nittany Lions have produced over 900 wins, ranking among the top programs in college football. They’ve had strong seasons in recent years, including a Rose Bowl win in 2022 and a Fiesta Bowl victory in 2024.
However, Penn State has struggled to get over the hump against top competition. Despite consistent 10-win seasons, they’ve fallen short against elite teams like Michigan and Ohio State, keeping them from breaking through to the College Football Playoff championship game.
Mark Ingram Is Not Buying Penn State Nittany Lions
Mark Ingram knows what it takes to win at the highest level. The former Alabama running back and 2009 Heisman Trophy winner was a key part of Alabama’s rise under Nick Saban, helping the Crimson Tide win a national championship in 2009.
Ingram went on to have a successful NFL career, earning three Pro Bowl selections during his time with the New Orleans Saints and Baltimore Ravens.
On Sunday, March 16, Ingram shared his thoughts on Penn State during an episode of “The Triple Option” podcast with Urban Meyer — and he doesn’t seem convinced the Nittany Lions are ready to take the next step.
“I’m just not a believer,” Ingram said. “They’ve been the same team the past five years — they just can’t win the big games. And they have two of them on here: they have Oregon and Ohio State, and at Iowa. I got them less than 10.5 wins. I think they’ll have 10, but that’ll still get them to the playoffs.”
Ingram’s doubts reflect the pressure Penn State faces this season. With high expectations and key matchups against Oregon and Ohio State, the Nittany Lions have a chance to silence critics and prove they can win on the biggest stage.
Penn State has the talent to compete with college football’s best, but the challenge remains proving it in big games.
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Ingram’s skepticism reflects the doubts surrounding the program’s ability to take the next step. If they can break through against teams like Oregon and Ohio State, Penn State could finally establish itself among the elite.
