Penn State Football: Poised for Success with Talented Roster and High Expectations
By Joey Lovell
The anticipation for the upcoming college football season is building, and the Penn State Nittany Lions are already making headlines. The recent announcement of the Athlon Sports’ 2023 All-Big Ten football teams revealed that numerous Penn State players have earned preseason All-Big Ten honors. Among the twelve Nittany Lions named, four standouts have been awarded first-team All-Big Ten status.
First and Second Team All-Big Ten
Leading the way on offense is Olu Fashanu, an exceptional offensive tackle who has been recognized as a first-team All-Big Ten player. Fashanu is widely regarded as one of the top players in college football and is already considered one of the nation’s top prospects for the 2024 NFL Draft. With his remarkable skills and potential, Fashanu is set to make a significant impact in the upcoming season and is a major reason that many consider this to be the best offensive line in James Franklin’s tenure.
Three Nittany Lions have also earned well-deserved recognition on the second-team All-Big Ten list. Nicholas Singleton, a sophomore running back and former five-star recruit, stands out with his exceptional skills in both running and kick returning. His explosive speed and playmaking ability make him a threat at every touch. Joining him is KeAndre Lambert-Smith, an impressive wide receiver known for his precise route running and reliable hands. Lambert-Smith’s athleticism and knack for big plays make him a valuable asset for the Nittany Lions offense. On the defensive side, Adisa Isaac has made an impact as a disruptive force on the defensive line, using his strength and agility to disrupt opposing offenses.
Third and Fourth Team All-Big Ten
Penn State continues to make its mark on the All-Big Ten list with the inclusion of Kaytron Allen, a highly talented running back who adds tremendous value to the team. While Allen may not have received as much fanfare as some of his conference peers, his contributions on the field are undeniable. One factor that makes Allen so effective, and vice versa, is the presence of his backfield mate Singleton. The duo forms a potent and dynamic combination due to their complementary running styles. Allen’s agility, vision, and powerful bursts perfectly complement Singleton’s explosive speed and elusiveness. Together, Allen and Singleton form a lethal duo, ready to continue devastating Big Ten defenses with their unmatched synergy and skill.
Penn State’s representation on the All-Big Ten list continues to shine with the inclusion of four additional Nittany Lions, featuring both two players on offense and two on defense.
Taking on a significant role among the offensive starters is Drew Allar, an impressive true sophomore quarterback who garnered acclaim as a five-star recruit. The not-so-quiet buzz surrounding Allar’s untapped potential has piqued interest, as his imposing physical presence and well-rounded skill set align seamlessly with Penn State’s gridiron demands. The forthcoming season represents a crucial juncture for the young quarterback to showcase his abilities, leaving an enduring impact on the field and propelling the team to new achievements. Furthermore, the inclusion of offensive lineman Caedan Wallace in the fourth-team All-Big Ten lineup emphasizes the team’s enhanced depth in the offensive line, addressing a previously identified area for improvement.
Completing the preseason All-Big Ten selections for Penn State Curtis Jacobs, and Keaton Ellis emerge as formidable defensive contributors. As they step into expanded roles this year, anticipation builds around their potential impact, fueled by their impressive performances during spring ball. The presence of Jacobs and Ellis becomes paramount to the overall success of the Penn State defense, as they bring a combination of skill, experience, and talent that will bolster the team’s defensive prowess.
Penn State’s talented roster is on full display through the preseason All-Big Ten honors, setting the stage for an impressive season ahead. With exceptional players making an impact on both offense and defense, the Nittany Lions possess the potential to leave their mark in the fiercely competitive Big Ten conference. The team’s lofty expectations perfectly align with the skillsets and unwavering determination of these talented individuals. As the eagerly anticipated kickoff of the 2023 college football campaign approaches, Penn State fans eagerly await a season that promises to be truly memorable.