The 2024 season proved to be a remarkable one for Penn State football, as the Nittany Lions secured the No. 5 spot in the final US LBM Coaches Poll. This finish represents their best placement since 2005, a testament to the program’s resurgence under head coach James Franklin. With a 12-2 record that included signature wins and a competitive presence in the College Football Playoff conversation, Penn State demonstrated its ability to perform at the highest level.
One of the standout moments of the season came in a thrilling victory over Michigan, showcasing the team’s ability to go toe-to-toe with top-ranked opponents. Penn State’s balanced attack, powered by quarterback Drew Allar and a stout defense anchored by All-American defensive end Chop Robinson, made them a formidable force in the Big Ten. While their losses to Ohio State and a close playoff semifinal defeat to Georgia kept them from securing a higher spot, the Nittany Lions solidified their reputation as one of the nation’s elite programs.
Penn State’s No. 5 finish also contributed to a historic milestone for the Big Ten Conference, which saw three teams—Ohio State (No. 1), Oregon (No. 3), and Penn State (No. 5)—ranked in the top five of the final poll. This achievement underscores the growing dominance of the Big Ten in college football, particularly with Oregon and Washington joining the conference in 2024.
For James Franklin and his staff, this season represents both a milestone and a stepping stone. The high ranking validates years of consistent recruiting and player development, but it also raises expectations for the future. With a strong foundation in place and a promising recruiting class on the horizon, Penn State appears poised to maintain its position among college football’s elite and potentially chase a national title in the years to come.
