Penn State Football Sees Major Changes After CFP Semifinal Loss
After Penn State’s College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinal defeat to Notre Dame, the program has undergone a series of rapid changes. On offense, the wide receiver group will have a fresh look. Despite the return of standout running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen, a new running backs coach will lead the duo. Defensively, there’s a significant shakeup as well, with Jim Knowles stepping in as the new defensive coordinator. Unlike last season, when Tom Allen enjoyed depth in the secondary, Knowles faces a number of unanswered questions. However, Penn State has brought back a familiar face to strengthen the safety position—King Mack returns to Happy Valley after transferring from Alabama.
Penn State’s Growing Transfer Portal Strategy
Traditionally, Penn State has been cautious about diving into the transfer portal, with head coach James Franklin emphasizing the importance of preserving locker room culture. However, that stance has shifted recently. Last season, offensive lineman Nolan Rucci transferred from Wisconsin and proved to be a critical addition after stepping in for an injured Anthony Donkoh. Rucci’s success demonstrated that the transfer portal could indeed benefit Penn State.
This year, King Mack isn’t the only newcomer from the portal. On defense, Mack is joined by Owen Wafle (a defensive lineman from Michigan) and Enai White (an edge rusher from Texas A&M). The offensive side welcomes TJ Shanahan (offensive lineman from Texas A&M), Devonte Ross (receiver from Troy), and Kyron Hudson (receiver from USC). This growing willingness to utilize the portal highlights Penn State’s determination to build on last season’s semifinal appearance.
The Return of King Mack
King Mack’s return marks a significant addition to the Nittany Lions’ defense. Mack initially began his collegiate career at Penn State, appearing in all 13 games during the 2023 season, primarily on special teams, where he recorded three tackles. However, following spring practices, he transferred to Alabama. While with the Crimson Tide in 2024, Mack posted 14 tackles but struggled to break into the regular defensive rotation.
Now back in Happy Valley after a one-year stint in Tuscaloosa, Mack aims to make the most of his remaining two years of eligibility. He will work closely with Co-Defensive Coordinator and Safety Coach Anthony Poindexter, known for developing elite safeties at Penn State. Mack will look to follow in the footsteps of standout players like Ji’Ayir Brown, KJ Winston, and Jaylen Reed.
Finding Mack’s Role in the Defense
The key question for Penn State and Mack is where he fits into the defensive rotation. With Winston and Reed preparing for the NFL Draft, returning safety Zakee Wheatley is expected to secure one starting safety position. However, the other spot remains up for grabs.
Dejuan Lane, who stepped into a critical backup role last season after Winston’s injury, will be a strong contender for playing time. Nevertheless, with Knowles bringing a fresh defensive approach, previous depth chart advantages may reset, giving Mack a genuine opportunity to compete for a starting role.
Mack’s familiarity with Franklin, Poindexter, and Penn State’s system, combined with his experience at an SEC powerhouse like Alabama, positions him well to make an immediate impact. His return represents more than just a homecoming—it’s a chance for Penn State to continue leveraging the transfer portal for key contributions, much like Rucci’s success on the offensive line last season.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on how Mack integrates into Knowles’ defensive scheme and whether he can emerge as a vital part of Penn State’s pursuit of another CFP run.
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