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USA Today
4 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Penn State football regular season record predictions
Penn State raised the bar for the program last season by making a run to the College Football Playoff semifinal and coming within mere moments of playing for a national title. This season, the Nittany Lions have great expectations being placed on them by the national polls and power rankings, and for good reason. Is this team ready to run the gauntlet and prove themselves worthy of the high national rankings en route to another deep playoff run? Our staff at Nittany Lions Wire is going on the record with our Penn State regular-season record predictions for the upcoming season. As you can see, we are all feeling pretty confident in Penn State's success this regular season, but winning every game is a slightly different story. Here are our Penn State final record predictions for the 2025 season. Christopher Sheppard: 11-1 If all goes well for Penn State this season, they could be looking at an 11-1 regular season with the sole loss coming to the Buckeyes on the road. With not too many road tests, most of the Nittany Lions' toughest hurdles will come at home. Starting with their Whiteout matchup in Week 4 against the Oregon Ducks, Penn State will be looking for revenge and should overwhelm a new-look Ducks roster despite the hype around 5-star receiver Dakorien Moore. Indiana could prove to be another feisty opponent at Beaver Stadium, but without an established RB tandem and only one top wideout, the pace of the game could be a stretch for the Hoosiers. Their toughest stretch could be that two-game slate in Weeks 6 and 8, where they have games on the road against Iowa and Ohio State. They do have the week off before their matchup with the Buckeyes, but a potentially grueling matchup against that feisty Iowa defense could have a toll. They should survive a scare in Iowa City, but may not have enough in the tank against the Buckeyes despite the bye week. Therefore, when the dust settles on the 2025 season, Penn State's only blemish will be against their rivals on and off the field. Nevertheless, they could get a chance at redemption in the Big Ten title game due to the new format. That's all they can truly ask for in a scenario like this. Sam Woloson: 11-1 I have Penn State cruising by its three nonconference games before meeting Oregon (ranked No. 7 in the US LBM Coaches Poll). I think the Nittany Lions squeak by in the Big Ten championship game rematch behind their White Out crowd to move to 4-0. Next, Penn State should beat UCLA and Northwestern. I expect the road game against Iowa to be a tight one, but I think the Nittany Lions offense will outperform the Hawkeyes when it counts. That brings us to Ohio State (No. 2 in the coaches poll). The Buckeyes are the reigning champs and still really, really good, and I don't think Penn State will be able to beat them on the road. The curse continues, at least in the regular season. From there, the Nittany Lions will win out to finish the regular season 11-1, likely good enough to make the Big Ten title game again. I expect Indiana (No. 19 in the coaches poll) and Nebraska to be tough opponents down the stretch, but I predict Penn State will get the job done. Toluwani Akintunde: 10-2 I think Penn State runs through the early part of the schedule and gets a statement win over Oregon at home. The two toughest games are at Ohio State and at Iowa. One of those could go either way. I think they split those two and maybe slip up once late. But even at 10-2, this team is playoff-caliber and should be in the Big Ten title game if the tiebreakers fall their way. Andrew Deal: 12-0 With my bold prediction for the 2025 season being Penn State defeating Ohio State in Columbus, it would only make sense for an undefeated year. Penn State's arguably second-hardest game is a home game against Oregon in the whiteout. Other than those two top-10 ranked opponents, the schedule is relatively easy despite some potential trap games. The Nittany Lions are applying the formula that Michigan used two seasons ago and Ohio State used last year, returning a lot of their production while adding pieces in the transfer portal to fill holes on the roster. The talent on Penn State this upcoming season is one of, if not the best in the entire country, and an undefeated season would live up to those expectations. Kevin McGuire: 11-1 Penn State is going to be favored to win every game on its scheduile, with the possible exception of its road game at Ohio State on Nov. 1. That is the one game I pencil in as a loss this season based mostly on history in this series suggesting Penn State is more likely to take the loss than celebrate a win. But the Nittany Lions should win every other game on the schedule. The three additional games on my radar as potential hiccups will be the home games against Oregon and Indiana and the road game at Iowa. Nebraska, toward the end of the season, could become interesting if the Cornhuskers get off to a good start, but anything fewer than 10 wins would be a bit shocking for this team. Previous: Our defensive MVP predictions for Penn State Coming up next week: Our preseason Big Ten predictions
Yahoo
31-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Oregon's Dakorien Moore already labeled nation's best freshman
Thursday marked the official release of EA Sports College Football 26 video game, which led to a flurry of content from streamers and social media users. After signing arguably the nation's best influx of talent via traditional recruiting and the transfer portal, Oregon Ducks fans were particularly intrigued about where their new talent would land. The headliner of the group? Oregon signee and Duncanville (Texas) five-star wide receiver Dakorien Moore is the second highest-rated prospect in program history (No. 4 overall), but the folks at EA Sports are even higher on him. Moore received an overall rating of 84, which made him the highest-rated true freshman in the game, eclipsing LSU running back Harlem Berry (83 overall), Georgia defensive lineman Elijah Griffin (82), Texas duo James Simon and Kaliq Lockett and Kansas State tight end Linkon Cure (81). Moore is expected to be a major part of the Oregon offense this season, particularly after the likely season-ending injury of star receiver Evan Stewart. The hype couldn't be much higher for the dynamic playmaker. Fellow Oregon signees also ranked well, including quarterback Akili Smith Jr. (75), runnings backs Dierre Hill (80) and Jordon Davison (77), Cooper Perry (76), cornerback Brandon Finney (78) and safety Trey McNutt (77). Notable Oregon signees Na'eem Offord, Dorian Brew, Douglas Utu, Ziyare Addison, Nasir Wyatt, Gavin Nix and others were not in the game (yet?).
USA Today
16-07-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Florida Gators coach provides details on 5-star WR Dallas Wilson's flip from Oregon Ducks
Less than a year ago, Oregon Duck fans were popping champagne after Dan Lanning and Junior Adams signed what was quite possibly the best combination of wide receivers in program history, inking both 5-star Dakorien Moore and 4-star Dallas Wilson as members of the 2025 recruiting class. Moore ranked as the No. 1 WR and No. 4 player in the nation, while Wilson came in as the No. 8 WR and No. 35 player in the country. The two put pen to paper on National Signing Day and were coming to Eugene. For a couple of weeks. On December 19, Wilson officially requested a release from his Letter of Intent with Oregon to sign with the Florida Gators, which is near his hometown. The request was granted, and Wilson ended up as a member of Florida's 2025 signing class, rather than Oregon's. Now, with fall camp just a couple of weeks away, Florida coach Billy Napier opened up about the events that landed Wilson in Gainesville at SEC Media Days, explaining that it was the player who reached out to the team, rather than the other way around. "Dallas actually contacted us," Napier said. "He asked out of his LOI and contacted us... There's no question he's going to make our team better." According to a report from The Athletic, Wilson asked out of his LOI to be closer to a sick family member back home in Florida. 'It's not about money,' Wilson's agent Vernell Brown said. 'It's about the kid wanting to be closer to an ailing family member. I think anybody can understand that.' Since flipping from Oregon, Wilson has been a revelation for the Gators, cementing himself as one of the most dynamic freshman receivers in the nation and generating a ton of buzz in The Swamp during Florida's spring game. In the Blue and Orange game, Wilson stole the show with 10 catches for 195 yards and two touchdowns. He was later tabbed as Florida's top newcomer of the season. While Wilson is flourishing in Florida, it's clear that Oregon has a rising star in Eugene as well, with Dakorien Moore, who is projected to be one of the top pass-catchers on the team in the wake of Evan Stewart's injury. Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.
Yahoo
28-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Top 10 Big Ten Offensive Players for 2025
For the Big Ten, nothing is more important to the success of the conference than the return of high-profile players. Whether these players have had established, illustrious careers or are looking to leave their mark early in their career starts, all of those who choose to return will be discussed in Big Ten history for years to come. Those returning on the offensive side of the ball especially would love to leave a special legacy. While a lot of them are on blueblood teams, there are several who are also rewriting history for their programs. Thus, as I rank the top offensive talent in the Big Ten this year, the onus is placed on these players to continue to carry the torch for their programs and the conference. 10. Dakorien Moore, Oregon Fighting Ducks wide receiver Dakorien Moore catches a pass as the Fighting Ducks face off against Mighty Oregon in the Oregon Ducks spring game on April 26, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene. Despite not even playing a single snap yet for the Ducks, Moore may just be the most hyped and talked-about player among their roster's ranks. The consensus No. 1 receiver for the 2025 class, Oregon staff are raving about his explosiveness and big play ability. His track experience in high school showcased his elite speed and his shiftiness downfield will surely translate well towards his connection to first time starter and UCLA transfer Dante Moore. What Jeremiah Smith was last year for Ohio State, Dakorien Moore could be for Oregon. 9. Max Klare, Ohio State Ohio State Buckeye Scarlet Max Klare (86) celebrates a touchdown catch with Jelani Thurman (15) against team Gary in the 1st half during the spring game at Ohio Stadium on April 12, 2025. The only tight end on this list, Max Klare transfers into a program and an offense much more versatile than the one he was with last year. And yet, even on a moribund Purdue squad, he still posted almost 700 yards and added 4 touchdowns. Now with Ohio State, he will be the perfect security blanket down the seam for another first time starter in Julian Sayin. Look for Klare to benefit from opposing defenses continuously trying to solve the Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate problem. 8. Devonte Ross, Penn State Penn State wide receiver Devonte Ross (5) check with the line judge during the Blue-White game at Beaver Stadium on Saturday, April 26, 2025, in State College. The White team defeated the Blue team, 10-8. Another elite transfer, Devonte Ross plied his trade at a non-Power 4 conference program with Troy and is looking to translate his game to a blueblood program. His 1,043 yards receiving would have been second in the conference last season and despite his slight stature, standing only 5'11", his deep threat ability and outside skill are nothing to sneeze at. While several other transfers and returners to the Penn State offense could make more of an impact, don't sleep on a breakout season in the Power 4 for Devonte Ross. 7. Nicholas Singleton, Penn State Jan 9, 2025; Miami, FL, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions running back Nicholas Singleton (10) celebrates a touch down in the second half against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the Orange Bowl at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images While some might say the elite Penn State running back should be higher on this list, the additions from the transfer portal and return of his backfield partners see him in 7th. However, there is no denying Nicholas Singleton's strength and physicality at the position, especially in goal-to-go and red zone situations and his receiving threat is certainly superior to his backfield partner in early down situations. Even though his role in this offense may diminish as Drew Allar develops a rapport with his new receivers, look for Singleton to still be a vital aspect of this team's title aspirations. 6. Elijah Sarratt, Indiana Indiana's Elijah Sarratt (13) celebrates a touchdown during the Indiana versus Purdue football game at Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. The only player from a non-traditional blueblood program, Sarratt now must carry the torch for Indiana after one of the most successful seasons in program history. Coming from JMU alongside coach Curt Cignetti, Sarratt is one of the only returners from that transfer class offensively and thus must be a leader both on and off the field. His 957 yards and 8 touchdowns are sure to increase if Cal transfer Fernando Mendoza relies on him as he transitions into this offense. If there's any one player to keep your eye on this season outside of the traditional conference powerhouses, it's Sarratt. 5. Drew Allar, Penn State Jan 9, 2025; Miami, FL, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar (15) runs the ball in the second half against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the Orange Bowl at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images Another player who might be lower on my list than you expect, Drew Allar is still an elite playmaker and almost certainly someone who could be a first round selection in next year's draft. This is more about the pressure placed on him to replicate the success of last season than his own talent. While his abilities at the position are undeniable, there will be countless questions if he can't at the very least lead Penn State to a CFP championship appearance in his final year. I believe that he has the potential and the weapons to do so, but we won't find out until the season gets into full swing. 4. Kaytron Allen, Penn State Penn State Nittany Lions running back Kaytron Allen (13) celebrates his first down run against the Boise State Broncos during their Vrbo Fiesta Bowl matchup at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Dec. 31, 2024. The more explosive of the two backs returning to Happy Valley, Kaytron Allen offers elite speed, vision and contact balance out of the backfield, always looking to hit the home run play for the Nittany Lions. I believe that he will get more touches than Singleton especially in early downs, and as evidenced by his 1,100 yards, an expanded role in this offense would be highly deserved. The best part of this running back tandem is that they balance each other perfectly. While Singleton could be seen as their bell cow, Allen is their closer with his ability to change games in the blink of an eye. 3. Trebor Pena, Penn State Nov 2, 2024; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange wide receiver Trebor Pena (2) runs with the ball after making a catch in the third quarter against the Virginia Tech Hokies at JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images Perhaps the transfer with the most pressure to perform in this Penn State offense, Trebor Pena could become the new everyman in this offense, much like Tyler Warren was last year. Whether it be in the slot, on the outside, or even in the backfield as a gadget guy on trick plays, Trebor Pena gives this offense an electric, speedy player who Penn State fans will be singing his praises about. At Syracuse, Pena had to be a star. At Penn State, he can just be himself. And that might be enough to make Penn State a true contender. 2. Julian Sayin, Ohio State Ohio State Buckeye Scarlet Julian Sayin (10) reads the team Gary defense in the 1st half during the spring game at Ohio Stadium on April 12, 2025. Some might say this is a way too high spot for a first time starter, but consider all the pieces surrounding the redshirt sophomore. Sayin steps into an offense with an elite receiver who still has two years of eligibility, another who is one of the most underrated playmakers in the conference, and a transfer tight end who is elite in finding space down the seam. The stage is set for Sayin to have immediate success. Look for his elite arm talent and athleticism to stand out from the jump, with his intelligence also a major factor as to why analysts think he's ready to play. However, with Texas coming to town in the first game of the season, looking for revenge, Sayin has to immediately prove he's up for the task. 1. Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Jeremiah Smith (4) celebrates with offensive lineman Donovan Jackson (74) after a touchdown catch against Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the first quarter during the College Football Playoff National Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on January 20, 2025. You know this thrilling young talent would be top of the list from the moment you started reading this article. After having broken multiple freshman and single-season records, Smith returns for his sophomore season ready to continue terrorizing defenses no matter what they throw at him defensively. Look for Sayin to find him early and often and elevate his own game through the elite play of Smith. There truly is no way to describe the athleticism that Smith can display on a football field, and the Big Ten has to prepare for more, because this young man is not going anywhere anytime soon. This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Ranking Top 10 Big Ten Offensive Players
USA Today
20-06-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Why Dakorien Moore is the biggest X-factor for Oregon Football in 2025
As the years go on, having true freshmen contribute immediately has become even more important than before. When the Oregon Ducks secured the services of five-star receiver Dakorien Moore, it was assumed he would have some sort of impact on Oregon's 2025 season. But with the news of Evan Stewart injuring his knee and putting his season in question, Moore adjusting quickly and being an even bigger focal point of the Ducks' passing game just got that more important. Fortunately for Oregon, Moore has the talent to be WR1 right away and have a similar impact that Jeremiah Smith had for Ohio State last season. According to CBS Sports, Moore's importance is so high that the Ducks' championship hopes might ride on it. "There will be a lot of pressure on Dakorien Moore to produce as a true freshman. Oregon's ability to contend for another Big Ten title largely hinges on him flourishing right out of the gate," writer Carter Bahns said. "The Ducks were always going to rely on the No. 1 wide receiver recruit, but his role only got bigger when top returning target Evan Stewart sustained what is feared to be a potential season-ending injury. That is on top of the necessity to make life easy on a new starting quarterback in Dante Moore." It's a lot of pressure to put on a true freshman, and it certainly is an unusual spot for a first-year player in Eugene. While the recruiting level has ratcheted up under Dan Lanning, veteran presence has played a huge part in their recent success. Dakorien Moore might have more eyes on him than any other true freshman has before at Oregon. Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.
