Penn State’s head coach James Franklin is currently uncertain about the availability of starting quarterback Drew Allar for the highly anticipated matchup against No. 4 Ohio State this Saturday.
Allar encountered a potential left knee injury late in the first half during the Nittany Lions’ recent 28-13 victory over Wisconsin. He managed to return for the second half wearing a knee brace but struggled after a brief warm-up and ultimately handed the reins of the offense to Beau Pribula.
Allar, known for his strong arm and playmaking ability in Andy Kotelnicki’s offensive scheme, has had a productive season so far, completing 117 of 164 passes for 1,640 yards, alongside 12 touchdowns and four interceptions. Remarkably, he has not missed a game since he assumed the starting position at the beginning of this season.
“It’s too early to determine his status right now, but considering his experience, the final decision may come down to game time,” Franklin stated.
Franklin also noted that Allar confided in him that he “couldn’t move well enough” to continue in the game following injuries.
“There were challenges even with throwing as the half concluded,” Franklin relayed, emphasizing how limited Allar was feeling.
During the game, the 6-foot-5, 235-pound quarterback showed good sportsmanship by giving the 6-foot-2, 206-pound Pribula a hug and wishing him well as he took over.
Pribula successfully kept the momentum going for the Nittany Lions by leading two touchdown drives, achieving an impressive 11 out of 13 passes for 98 yards and a touchdown, alongside rushing four times for eight yards.
Should Pribula be tasked with his first start on Saturday, he will face a formidable opponent in Ohio State, which boasts the country’s second-ranked defense, and this game carries significant implications for conference championships and potential playoff spots.
Franklin also indicated that they plan to give more opportunities to third-string quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer, working alongside Pribula throughout the week. Freshman Jaxon Smolik is still rehabilitating from an injury sustained during the preseason.
“The reality is that we need to prepare both players, and arguably all three quarterbacks, for this upcoming challenge,” Franklin concluded.