Todd McShay evaluates Penn State playmakers around Drew Allar
Todd McShay takes a close look at the playmakers surrounding Penn State quarterback Drew Allar, and it’s evident that the Nittany Lions have boosted their talent pool. Running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen return, forming what’s likely the best one-two punch in college football at the position.
Additionally, Penn State has brought in three senior transfer wide receivers—Trebor Pena, Devonte Ross, and Kyron Hudson—to help fill the gap left by former NFL tight end Tyler Warren. All three transfers are eager to make a lasting impact in their final season.
If these playmakers live up to the hype, Penn State could have one of the nation’s top offenses. A lot of the team’s success hinges on Allar’s development, as the Nittany Lions aim for a title run, so the young QB will need strong support from his weapons.
As McShay discussed on his podcast, many top programs were searching for perimeter playmakers, and Penn State was a leading example of that. The Nittany Lions brought in Pena from Syracuse—a solid all-around player, not a speedster but incredibly skilled. Pena, a former five-star recruit, led the ACC last season with 84 catches for 941 yards and nine touchdowns, giving Allar a reliable outside target. With the absence of first-round talent like Tyler Warren, McShay stressed that Allar’s success depends on his ability to throw accurately and in sync with his receivers. If not, Penn State’s season—and Allar’s draft prospects—could fall short.
Pena’s impressive stats from Syracuse include 84 catches for 941 yards, nine touchdowns, and an average of 11.2 yards per catch during his fifth season. Allar is also expected to target Ross, who had 129 catches, 1,618 yards, and 14 touchdowns over three years at Tulsa, averaging 12.5 yards per catch. Hudson, who transferred from USC, is anticipated to be the third option. He made his biggest impact in 2024, finishing his USC career with 72 catches, 807 yards, and eight touchdowns at an average of 11.2 yards per catch.
Ultimately, the success of Penn State’s offense will rest on Allar’s ability to lead, but if he meets expectations, the Nittany Lions could end up on top when the season wraps up.
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