Penn State Sports Magazine
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/1539550
2 8 O C T O B E R 2 0 2 5 W W W . B L U E W H I T E O N L I N E . C O M P enn State head coach James Franklin used words instead of a hammer, messaging his intent to fans and media alike. In the aftermath of a 46-11 win over Nevada in the opener, and throughout the week that followed, the hammer might have been the better choice to deliver his point. For months, Franklin had reiterated the same priority: Penn State had to build a passing game capable of putting stress on opponents throughout the Big Ten season and into the College Football Playoff. The Nittany Lions wanted to "make a run," as he put it. But to get there, they would need to show balance and explo- siveness on offense. They would have to possess the ability to beat opponents in multiple ways. And, after losing a first- round draft choice at tight end and add- ing three new receivers via the transfer portal, the work would be demanding. Franklin set the tone before the season even started. Speaking with national col- lege football analyst Josh Pate on Aug. 19 during preseason camp, he explained the work that Penn State needed to do to get its passing game ready for the challenge ahead. "It's going to be a big key to our suc- cess," Franklin said. "That's why we were aggressive in the transfer portal. "We need to make defenses defend the Lending Lending A Hand A Hand Transfer wide receivers give PSU's offense a lift in the nonconference season NAT E BAU E R | N AT E . B A U E R @ O N 3 . C O M Former USC wideout Kyron Hudson helped Penn State put away Florida International with 5 catches for 37 yards. PHOTO BY MARK SELDERS/PENN STATE ATHLETICS