Penn State Football has been on a mission to reach elite status since the arrival of head coach James Franklin in 2014. The Nittany Lions have had some success under Franklin, including three consecutive 11-win seasons from 2016-2018 and a Big Ten Championship in 2016. However, they have yet to reach the level of perennial powerhouse programs like Ohio State and Alabama.
The Big 12 Conference race has shifted course this season, with Oklahoma and Texas emerging as the top contenders. This has left Penn State in a precarious position, as they are now competing for conference supremacy with two of the top programs in the nation.
Penn State has been able to remain competitive in the Big 12 despite the emergence of Oklahoma and Texas. The Nittany Lions have won their last three games against Big 12 opponents, including a thrilling victory over Iowa State in the 2019 season opener. The team has also been able to maintain a high level of play on both sides of the ball, ranking in the top 25 in both total offense and total defense.
The Nittany Lions have also been able to stay competitive in recruiting, bringing in some of the top talent in the nation. Penn State has had five players selected in the first round of the NFL Draft since Franklin took over, including Saquon Barkley and Trace McSorley.
Despite the success that Penn State has had under Franklin, they are still aiming for elite status. The team is looking to make a statement this season and prove that they can compete with the best teams in the nation. With a talented roster and a head coach who is determined to reach the top, there is no doubt that Penn State is still aiming for elite status.
The Big 12 Conference race is sure to be an exciting one this season, and Penn State will be looking to make their mark. With a talented roster and a head coach who is determined to reach the top, there is no doubt that the Nittany Lions are still aiming for elite status.
