Penn State Football: What should the Lions future schedules look like?

As the Penn State football program looks to navigate the expanded College Football Playoffs and secure a spot among the nation’s elite, the strategy of scheduling out-of-conference opponents becomes vital. With the playoffs expanding to twelve teams, the debate arises between conservative scheduling, focusing on minimizing losses versus aggressive scheduling, which aims to enhance the team’s strength of schedule. In this article, we will explore the merits of each approach and determine which path Penn State should take in shaping its future scheduling decisions.

It is important to keep in mind that Penn State has signed contracts with numerous schools, filling their non-conference slate until 2028 (there is one open spot in 2025). Thus, this debate is one that needs to be discussed now but with the realization that changes won’t be able to happen until 2028. Even then, since Penn State is playing the last of a two-game series with Syracuse, there are only two games available then.

Conservative Scheduling

Minimizing Risks and Optimizing Playoff Chances Advocates of conservative scheduling argue that minimizing losses should be the priority for Penn State. By scheduling opponents perceived as less challenging, the team reduces the risk of a damaging loss that could hinder their playoff aspirations. This approach emphasizes the importance of controlling the team’s destiny and not relying solely on the strength of the schedule to secure a playoff berth. Conservative scheduling may involve fewer marquee matchups but offers a higher likelihood of maintaining a pristine record, minimizing setbacks, and increasing the chances of being among the top twelve teams.

Aggressive Scheduling

Enhancing Strength of Schedule and National Perception Proponents of aggressive scheduling argue that Penn State should actively seek out challenging opponents to bolster their strength of schedule. The expanded playoffs allow for greater flexibility and tolerance for losses, making it an opportune time to face high-profile programs. Aggressive scheduling provides an avenue to test the team against top-tier competition, earn respect from selection committees, and potentially secure a higher seed in the playoffs. The emphasis is on showcasing Penn State’s capabilities against formidable opponents, increasing national recognition, and attracting top recruits drawn to the program’s competitiveness.

Striking a Balance

Tailoring the schedule to Penn State’s needs rather than subscribing exclusively to conservative or aggressive scheduling, Penn State should aim for a balanced approach. The program must carefully select a mix of opponents that offer a blend of challenging matchups and opportunities for success. Balancing marquee non-conference games with strategically chosen opponents allows the team to showcase its strengths, accumulate quality wins, and strengthen its playoff resume. Penn State should consider scheduling a mix of nationally respected programs, regional rivals, and competitive non-power conference teams to strike a balance between risk mitigation and strength of schedule enhancement.

Conclusion

Penn State Football faces the decision of whether to schedule conservatively or aggressively. Conservative scheduling aims to minimize losses, control the team’s destiny, and increase playoff chances. Aggressive scheduling seeks challenging opponents to enhance the strength of schedule and secure higher playoff seeds.

To strike a balance, Penn State should adopt a tailored approach, selecting a mix of respected programs, rivals, and competitive non-power conference teams. This strategy showcases strengths, accumulates quality wins, and strengthens playoff potential. Considering the expanded playoffs, Penn State should carefully schedule opponents to optimize their chances of success.