STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — As the temperatures drop in Happy Valley, the optimism remains warm for Beau Pribula and Andy Kotelnicki, who are developing their connection even as more casual practice routines begin to fade with the colder weather.
In his inaugural season as the offensive coordinator for Penn State, Kotelnicki has faced the ongoing challenge of refining the game plan for the No. 4 ranked Nittany Lions (8-1, 5-1 Big Ten, No. 6 CFP) each week. The core dilemma revolves around determining the optimal utilization of Pribula, a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, alongside the team’s primary starter, Drew Allar, known for his powerful throwing arm.
“You need to assess how sustainable your strategies are throughout both a game and a season,” Kotelnicki articulated. “It’s crucial to ensure that players are placed in situations that play to their strengths, and I believe we have effectively addressed these considerations each week.”
As Penn State gears up for a critical matchup at Purdue (1-8, 0-6) this Saturday, the coaching staff remains committed to making adjustments for a shot at a College Football Playoff position. Given Purdue’s struggles defensively this season, Pribula could see increased opportunities to showcase his skills, especially against a defense currently ranked 122nd, having faced seven different backup quarterbacks up to this point.
Pribula has demonstrated that he is capable of more than just enhancing the ground game. Wide receiver Liam Clifford praised his abilities, saying, “He’s shown incredible athleticism in games. He can create plays with his legs and can also throw the ball really well, like he did in the Wisconsin game.”
Confidence is high among Pribula’s teammates and coaches, particularly following his standout performance two weeks ago when Penn State needed him most. After Allar suffered a left knee injury just before halftime, Pribula stepped in as the Nittany Lions were trailing 10-7. He completed 11 of 13 passes for 98 yards and a touchdown, showcasing precision throwing both on the run and from the pocket.
“People often highlight his playmaking ability with his legs,” noted head coach James Franklin, “but everyone in our program knows he can make plays with his arm too.” In addition, Pribula contributed 28 rushing yards on six carries, helping lead the team to a 28-13 victory over Wisconsin.
“Experiencing a game in such a challenging environment really boosts your confidence,” Pribula reflected on playing at Camp Randall Stadium.
Pribula’s confidence had been steadily building. Known for his shirtless tradition post-practice, Pribula encouraged Kotelnicki to join him for what they termed a “bro walk” around the practice field, particularly before their trip to Wisconsin. Pribula admitted that he always trained with the mindset of eventually starting, but it wasn’t until Allar’s injury that he truly understood what it meant to take the lead on the field.
Kotelnicki had even designed an early play specifically for Pribula—a direct-snap run for an 8-yard touchdown against Washington.
“It’s rewarding to execute what you’ve practiced,” Pribula said. “Bringing what you work on in practice to the game is a fantastic feeling, knowing that your preparation made a difference.”