Going into 2026, the Penn State Nittany Lions offense will have an entirely new look to it. Gone will be two of the best running backs the program has ever produced, and almost an entire offensive line that was once considered one of the nation’s best. Even the quarterback situation could be up in the air. Still, for one last game, several of these players will want to end their prolific careers on a high note against a diminished Clemson defense. Here are the offensive keys to success for Penn State.
Success in the trenches
Dec 31, 2024; Glendale, AZ, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions offensive lineman Cooper Cousins (50) against the Boise State Broncos during the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
While Penn State have lost a huge piece of their offensive line in Vega Ioane, they still might have an overwhelming advantage in the trenches considering who has opted out for the Tigers. Both TJ Parker and Peter Woods accounted for almost half of the Tigers’ 33 sacks on the season. While Will Heldt, who has decided to return for another year with Clemson, has also been highly productive, Penn State’s offensive line could prove to be too much for a new look defensive front for the Tigers. Look for Cooper Cousins, the sophomore, to aptly fill in for Ioane at the left guard spot.
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Nov 22, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer (17) throws a pass during a warm up prior to the game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images
In what could be a prove it game for the redshirt freshman, it is paramount that he performs well against an especially depleted Clemson secondary. Without the leadership of All-American corner Aveion Terrell for the Tigers, there may be several ways that Penn State can exploit the Tigers in the passing game. Grunkemeyer hasn’t thrown the ball that often, but when he has, he has looked calm and composed, posting a 69.4 completion percentage. No matter what the QB’s future holds, a solid performance in the Pinstripe Bowl could set him up for 2026 success.
Nov 22, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions running back Kaytron Allen (13) stands on the field following the game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images
Even though it’s sad to think about, Kaytron Allen will no longer be a Nittany Lion after this game. That is why the offensive game plan will be somewhat tailored to sending him off in style. After all, when you are the all-time leading rusher in program history, you deserve to have a special send-off. While Allen could opt out in the coming days, should he decide to play, it will be a very emotional time for Penn State fans…but also one that could be a perfect ending for one of Penn State’s most historic players.
This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Offensive keys for Penn State in Pinstripe Bowl
