Happy Valley hasn't lived up to its moniker in recent weeks as fans haven't had much to root for.
Penn State football dropped consecutive losses to start conference play in the Big Ten, both in heartbreaking fashion. With these results, there is obviously much to be desired on the gridiron as play continues falling short of high preseason expectations.
This anticipation was even sustained through a troubling non-conference slate in the first three weeks. The Nittany Lions (3-2, 0-2 Big Ten) struggled toppling teams they matched up well with. Penn State appeared to be a "Paper Tiger" of sorts, or maybe more fittingly, "Paper Lions."
Fans still showed up for their team despite the underwhelming non-conference performance and brought the noise for the blue and white's "White Out" contest again Oregon. This was the second-largest crowd in Beaver Stadium history even with doubts and a potential loss looming.
With the disappointing course of the game, fans showed their displeasure at times, which only grew on social media. Yet, it wasn't all negative. The Penn State community attempted to come together after the loss, even though concerns about head coach James Franklin's abilities against top-ranked opponents rose.
While this is the bleak reality for Nittany Lions fans, it is one that some accepted. Though they disapprove of Franklin's ability, or lack thereof, it's not something out of the ordinary.
As fans attempted recovering from heartbreak against the Ducks, a stunning loss in the Rose Bowl killed all hope for redemption. Week 6 practically closed the door to Penn State's College Football Playoff goals in 2025.
With that possible reality, it marks the end of an era in the program as key figures, including NFL talents on both sides of the ball and long-tenured student-athlete leaders, depart the program. Players — like quarterback Drew Allar, running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, defensive end Dani Dennis-Sutton, and defensive tackle Zane Durant — all returned for their final year of eligibility.
The sobering reality for the Nittany Lions caused outside noise to reach an all-time high at a time when the university needs its loyal fandom.
Amid this buzz, the tide is starting to turn in favor of top-down, widespread change. This isn't a sentiment shared by all who follow the team, but it undoubtedly grew since the start of the season, leaving a disheartening feeling about the future outlook.
There is still a chance to capitalize on these remaining games and make a meaningful finish, but Penn State has to confront its own fan base first.
The schedule for the blue and white just happened to work out so that after this skid, the Nittany Lions must return to State College for their first game since the UCLA upset. It just so happens to be during homecoming week.
Beaver Stadium hosts Northwestern for the occasion, which comes in on a two-game winning streak, including a 17-14 win over the Bruins.
This setting will be a hostile environment for both squads. Fans will surely express their displeasure with the recent losses, especially towards the coaching staff in particular.
While fans maintain the right to express their frustrations, they must also remember to boost morale for the Nittany Lions on the field. They certainly need it. There is still a gap through which Penn State can sneak in if it wins out.
This is possible. Notre Dame did it in 2024 after losing to Northern Illinois and eventually went on to play in the CFP National Championship Game. Such a run by the Fighting Irish included a triumph over the Nittany Lions in the Orange Bowl, which ended Penn State's season and sparked fan frustrations with the coaching staff.
If the Nittany Lions embark on such a path, they must overcome the noise and criticism. Homecoming will likely be a game where fans are extremely vocal of their opinions.
For the matchup against Northwestern, Penn State brings back its "Generation of Greatness" jerseys, making it a perfect time to tap into the sense of school pride.
It will take a rally from everyone draped in blue and white on game days. Even though there is a small glimmer of hope at the CFP, it's something. The game against the Wildcats marks the start of this attempt at a rebound and will serve as a massive indicator of how the team responds to adversity.
One thing is for sure, though, a rowdy fan base not in support of its team will make that rebound that much harder. The Nittany Lions might enter a hostile, toxic environment on their home ground on Saturday.
Fans must remember their common goal and maintain a "1-0" mindset — a philosophy Franklin loves emphasizing — as panic only accelerates the process of disaster.