Hardcore Penn State Football

Shawn & Cory are back to talk Spring Practice, NFL Draft, Recruiting Updates & more Other topics: -Latest out of practice -Blue & White "Game" -Will Abdul Carter go No.1 in the NFL Draft? Guide: MERCH: https://shop.teammercury.io/ FOLLOW HARDCORE PSU HERE: ► TWITTER |   / hardcorepsufb   ► TIKTOK |   / hardcorepsufb   ► INSTAGRAM |   / hardcorepsufb   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   ► APPLE | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... ► SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/411KekH... ► LINKTREE | https://linktr.ee/hardcorepsufb FOLLOW STATE MEDIA HERE: ► TWITTER |   / statemediapsu   ► TIKTOK |   / statemediapsu   ► INSTAGRAM |   / statemediapsu   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   Hardcore PSU is an underground, grass-roots, Penn State Football podcast dedicated to providing its listeners with useful stats, intriguing stories, credible news, and unique interviews. The show is co-hosted by Cory Lestochi and Shawn Kane. Hardcore PSU is presented by The Mercury Podcast Network. For sponsorships or business inquiries reach out to: ads@teammercury.io

Cory & Shawn are back to discuss the beginning of Spring Practice, the results of Pro Day, big news regarding PSU RB commits, and more! Other topics: -Key players out of practice -Who is stepping up? -Will Abdul Carter go No.1 in the NFL Draft? Guide: MERCH: https://shop.teammercury.io/ FOLLOW HARDCORE PSU HERE: ► TWITTER |   / hardcorepsufb   ► TIKTOK |   / hardcorepsufb   ► INSTAGRAM |   / hardcorepsufb   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   ► APPLE | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... ► SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/411KekH... ► LINKTREE | https://linktr.ee/hardcorepsufb FOLLOW STATE MEDIA HERE: ► TWITTER |   / statemediapsu   ► TIKTOK |   / statemediapsu   ► INSTAGRAM |   / statemediapsu   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   Hardcore PSU is an underground, grass-roots, Penn State Football podcast dedicated to providing its listeners with useful stats, intriguing stories, credible news, and unique interviews. The show is co-hosted by Cory Lestochi and Shawn Kane. Hardcore PSU is presented by The Mercury Podcast Network.

Shawn & Cory talk PSU in the NFL & Beaver Stadium's Field having new naming rights Other topics: -Founder & CEO of West Shore Home, B.J. Werzyn joins the pod -Sleepiest NFL Combine of all-time? -Saquon, Gesicki, Godwin sign new deals Guide: MERCH: https://shop.teammercury.io/ FOLLOW HARDCORE PSU HERE: ► TWITTER |   / hardcorepsufb   ► TIKTOK |   / hardcorepsufb   ► INSTAGRAM |   / hardcorepsufb   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   ► APPLE | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... ► SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/411KekH... ► LINKTREE | https://linktr.ee/hardcorepsufb FOLLOW STATE MEDIA HERE: ► TWITTER |   / statemediapsu   ► TIKTOK |   / statemediapsu   ► INSTAGRAM |   / statemediapsu   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   Hardcore PSU is an underground, grass-roots, Penn State Football podcast dedicated to providing its listeners with useful stats, intriguing stories, credible news, and unique interviews. The show is co-hosted by Cory Lestochi and Shawn Kane. Hardcore PSU is presented by The Mercury Podcast Network. For sponsorships or business inquiries reach out to: ads@teammercury.io #pennstate #pennstatefootball #collegefootball #cfb #pennstatenittanylions #nittanylions

Cory & Shawn are back to catch up or mustard on the latest PSU news in February Other topics: -PSU loses Seider & gains Drayton at RB Coach -Penn State has five players invited to NFL Combine -Beaver Stadium renos continue Guide: MERCH: https://shop.teammercury.io/ FOLLOW HARDCORE PSU HERE: ► TWITTER |   / hardcorepsufb   ► TIKTOK |   / hardcorepsufb   ► INSTAGRAM |   / hardcorepsufb   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   ► APPLE | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... ► SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/411KekH... ► LINKTREE | https://linktr.ee/hardcorepsufb FOLLOW STATE MEDIA HERE: ► TWITTER |   / statemediapsu   ► TIKTOK |   / statemediapsu   ► INSTAGRAM |   / statemediapsu   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   Hardcore PSU is an underground, grass-roots, Penn State Football podcast dedicated to providing its listeners with useful stats, intriguing stories, credible news, and unique interviews. The show is co-hosted by Cory Lestochi and Shawn Kane. Hardcore PSU is presented by The Mercury Podcast Network. For sponsorships or business inquiries reach out to: ads@teammercury.io #pennstate #pennstatefootball #collegefootball #cfb #pennstatenittanylions #nittanylions

Shawn & Cory reflect on the latest in Penn State's news. Other topics: -Jim Knowles starts at Penn State -Penn State hosts Junior Days -Latest on PSU Recruiting Guide: MERCH: https://shop.teammercury.io/ FOLLOW HARDCORE PSU HERE: ► TWITTER |   / hardcorepsufb   ► TIKTOK |   / hardcorepsufb   ► INSTAGRAM |   / hardcorepsufb   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   ► APPLE | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... ► SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/411KekH... ► LINKTREE | https://linktr.ee/hardcorepsufb FOLLOW STATE MEDIA HERE: ► TWITTER |   / statemediapsu   ► TIKTOK |   / statemediapsu   ► INSTAGRAM |   / statemediapsu   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   Hardcore PSU is an underground, grass-roots, Penn State Football podcast dedicated to providing its listeners with useful stats, intriguing stories, credible news, and unique interviews. The show is co-hosted by Cory Lestochi and Shawn Kane. Hardcore PSU is presented by The Mercury Podcast Network.

Cory & Shawn react to Penn State's hiring of former OSU defensive coordinator, Jim Knowles Other topics: -What does this mean from a program alignment perspective? -What to expect from DC Jim Knowles -What about the rest of the staff? -What to watch out for from a scheme perspective Guide: MERCH: https://shop.teammercury.io/ FOLLOW HARDCORE PSU HERE: ► TWITTER |   / hardcorepsufb   ► TIKTOK |   / hardcorepsufb   ► INSTAGRAM |   / hardcorepsufb   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   ► APPLE | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... ► SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/411KekH... ► LINKTREE | https://linktr.ee/hardcorepsufb FOLLOW STATE MEDIA HERE: ► TWITTER |   / statemediapsu   ► TIKTOK |   / statemediapsu   ► INSTAGRAM |   / statemediapsu   ► YOUTUBE |    / @statemediapsu   Hardcore PSU is an underground, grass-roots, Penn State Football podcast dedicated to providing its listeners with useful stats, intriguing stories, credible news, and unique interviews. The show is co-hosted by Cory Lestochi and Shawn Kane.

In this electrifying episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we celebrate a resilient Senior Day triumph as the Nittany Lions claw back with a 27-20 victory over Nebraska on November 22nd at Beaver Stadium—boosting Penn State to 5-6 and keeping faint bowl hopes alive in a season of upheaval! We start with a full recap of the gritty win: Ethan Grunkemeyer's poised performance stepping in at QB, going an efficient 11/12 for 181 yards and a touchdown, the defense's crucial 4th down stops, and how the ground game powered through. Then, we spotlight the historic milestones: RB Kaytron Allen shattering the all-time career rushing yards record with a 160-yard outburst, surpassing Evan Royster's mark in emotional fashion. Plus, RB Nick Singleton's two-score day tying Saquon Barkley's legendary all-time touchdowns record—could he break it in the finale? Finally, the big debate: With James Franklin now at Virginia Tech, should interim head coach Terry Smith—a PSU lifer with recruiting chops and defensive expertise—get the full-time gig? We weigh his steady hand in this turnaround win against other candidates like Lincoln Riley, Bob Chesney, Kalen DeBoer, and Brent Key, plus fan polls and insider buzz. Join hosts Shawn Kane & Cory Lestochi for triumphant vibes, milestone breakdowns, and heated coaching discussions. Subscribe for more unfiltered Penn State takes, like if you're hyped for the records, and tell us in the comments: Terry Smith for HC—yes or no? Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions WEEK 13 PICK'EM: https://forms.gle/cL5HK5FkS8YLWELn7

In this bombshell episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we tackle the seismic shakeup in Happy Valley and look ahead amid the chaos as the Nittany Lions fight to finish strong in a turbulent 2025 season! We lead with the breaking news: James Franklin's stunning departure to Virginia Tech after 12 years at Penn State—analyzing his move, is it a good fit?, and the ripple effects as he poaches staff members like Andy Frank. What does this mean for PSU's rebuild, and who's next in the coaching carousel? Then, a full celebration of Penn State's gritty 28-10 victory over Michigan State on November 15th—snapping a losing skid to improve to 4-6. Kaytron moves closer to breaking the all-time rushing record. Finally, our in-depth preview of the Senior Day clash against Nebraska on November 22nd at Beaver Stadium: Dissecting the 7-3 Cornhuskers' run-heavy attack led by QB Dylan Raiola, matchup advantages for PSU, weather factors, and strategies to secure bowl eligibility. Join hosts Cory Lestochi & Shawn Kane for emotional reactions, insider scoops, and fiery debates on the program's future. Subscribe now for unfiltered PSU coverage, like if you're excited for a new era, and sound off in the comments on who should replace Franklin! Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions   B1G Pick'em Week 13: https://forms.gle/jEa5wKEwEewFLhtK8

In this raw and unfiltered episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we confront the painful reality of the Nittany Lions' heartbreaking 31-24 loss to Indiana on November 8th at Beaver Stadium—dropping Penn State to a dismal 3-6 and putting the program's future under the microscope. We lead with a thorough recap of the defeat: Critical moments like the late-game interception, defensive collapses against Mendoza's passing attack, offensive bright spots with Ethan Grunkemeyer's resilience, and conservative play calling sealed another frustrating Big Ten setback for the Lions.   Then, the latest twists in the coaching search: With James Franklin's seat scorching hot, we update on evolving candidates—including Mike Elko's impressive turnaround at TAMU, Brian Hartline's Ohio State ties and recruiting edge, Eli Drinkwitz being the new favorite, and Alabama's Kalen DeBoer. Plus, emerging dark horses and timeline speculation as the season spirals.   Finally, we dive into your fan questions: Tackling everything from player accountability and schematic overhauls to bowl ineligibility fears, transfer portal chaos, and bold calls for immediate changes—straight from the passionate PSU community.   Join hosts Shawn Kane & Cory Lestochi for tough conversations, expert breakdowns, and a glimmer of hope amid the turmoil.   Subscribe for more no-holds-barred Penn State coverage, like if you're demanding better from the Lions, and share your hottest takes in the comments! Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions   WEEK 12 PICK'EM: https://forms.gle/PodpD7rFasPnUPPe7

In this must-listen episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we bring the heat with special guest Landon Tengwall, the former Nittany Lions offensive lineman turned analyst and host of The Landon Tengwall Show, joining us for insider breakdowns and unfiltered takes on the program! We kick off with an exclusive interview with Landon—understanding what's going on with the current Penn State Football team. What improvements they can make at this point in the season? Can they get to a bowl game?   We then talk about the Penn State Coaching Search and who Landon would like to see get the Penn State Head Coaching Job. Then, a raw dissection of what went wrong in the 38-14 thrashing by Ohio State and throughout this disappointing 3-5 campaign so far—turnovers, defensive lapses, coaching decisions, and how the Lions can salvage the year.   Shifting to the future, our detailed preview of the upcoming clash against Indiana on November 8th at Beaver Stadium: Breaking down the #,2 Indiana Hoosiers, their high-powered offense, key matchups like containing their explosive WRS, and how Penn State's defense can step up at home. Next, our bold predictions for Penn State vs. Indiana—will the Nittany Lions snap their skid and get back to .500, or will IU keep rolling in the Big Ten? We cover scores, X-factors, and upset potential.   Join Cory Lestochi and guest Landon Tengwall for candid convos, expert insights, and no-BS analysis. Subscribe now for more Penn State deep dives, like if you're ready for a rebound win, and drop your predictions in the comments!   Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions   WEEK 11 PICK'EM: https://forms.gle/UT44r58eJfDQoFJw5

In this toothless episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we unpack the Nittany Lions' brutal 38-14 defeat at the hands of the No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes on November 1st—dropping Penn State to 3-5 and intensifying the pressure in Happy Valley. Rich Scarcella from the Reading Eagle joins the show!   We start with a full recap of the loss: Key plays, defensive breakdowns, turnovers, and how the Buckeyes dominated from start to finish despite the score looking close at half. What went wrong, and is there any silver linings in this lopsided rivalry clash? Why couldn't the offense attack vertically?   Next, a heated debate on offensive playcalling—critiquing the conservative schemes, missed opportunities with Ethan Grunkemeyer, and why the run-pass balance failed against OSU's elite defense. Is it time for major changes? Interim HC Terry Smith says no major changes are imminent.   Then, we tackle your fan questions: From calls for coaching shakeups to player evaluations and bowl eligibility hopes—nothing's off-limits as we read and respond to the best submissions from the PSU faithful.   Finally, the latest on the coaching search amid swirling rumors about James Franklin's job security. Updates on frontrunners like Mike Elko's rising stock with TAMU success, Brian Hartline's recruiting magic, Jeff Brohm at Louisville, and Matt Rhule and Urban Meyer appearing to be off the list. Join hosts Cory Lestochi & Rich Scarcella for honest takes, close examinations, and a path forward for the program. Hit subscribe for more raw Penn State analysis, like if you're still believing in the Nittany Lions, and vent your frustrations in the comments!   Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions   WEEK 11 PICK'EM: https://forms.gle/UT44r58eJfDQoFJw5

In this high-stakes episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we ramp up the intensity just days before the Nittany Lions face off against the top-ranked Buckeyes in a classic Big Ten showdown! Friend of the pod and Altoona native, Cory Giger accompanies him. We kick things off by answering your top fan bold predictions—covering everything from injury reports and lineup tweaks to coaching hot takes and season outlooks as Penn State sits at 3-4 heading into this pivotal matchup. Next, our in-depth Ohio State preview: We dissect the undefeated 7-0 Buckeyes' explosive offense led by their star quarterback, their lockdown defense, key player matchups, and strategic vulnerabilities the Lions could exploit in Columbus on November 1st at Ohio Stadium. Finally, our fearless predictions for Ohio State vs. Penn State—will the underdog Nittany Lions pull off a monumental upset against No. 1 Ohio State, or will the Buckeyes roll to another victory? We break down scores, game-changers, and bold calls.Join hosts Cory Lestochi and Cory Giger for raw breakdowns, heated discussions, and insider insights. Smash that subscribe button for more PSU coverage, like if you're riding with the Nittany Lions, and share your predictions in the comments! Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions WEEK 10 PICK'EM: https://forms.gle/Py7UEx72qxXvdA7f7

In this fresh episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we dive deep into the hottest topics surrounding the Nittany Lions as the 2025 season heats up! Donnie Collins, Scranton Times-Tribune, fills in for Shawn Kane. First, we break down the ongoing head coach search amid speculation about James Franklin's future. We analyze top candidates like Texas A&M's Mike Elko, Brian Hartline's offensive wizardry and recruiting prowess at Ohio State, Joe Brady's innovative play-calling with the Buffalo Bills, and the controversial potential return of Urban Meyer—could he bring championship pedigree back to Happy Valley? Then, we shift gears to game prep: How Penn State is gearing up for their Big Noon Kick against Ohio State. We discuss key matchups, injury updates, and strategies to exploit the Buckeyes' weaknesses. Finally, a full breakdown of the Nittany Lions' offense strategy— from QB Ethan Grunkenmeyer's growth to Jaxon Smolik's injury. Join hosts Cory Lestochi and Donnie Collins for unfiltered analysis.. Don't miss it—subscribe now for more Penn State breakdowns, hit that like button if you're all in on the Lions, and drop your coach picks in the comments! Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions WEEK 10 PICK'EM: https://forms.gle/Py7UEx72qxXvdA7f7

In this episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we break down Penn State's heartbreaking 25-24 loss to the Iowa Hawkeyes at Kinnick Stadium—the Nittany Lions' fourth straight defeat in Iowa City by five points or fewer. Join us as we dissect how the defense, ranked 71st against the run, crumbled in the second half, giving up massive chunks on the ground including a game-changing 67-yard scamper by Iowa QB Mark Gronowski that set up the winning touchdown. Iowa racked up 245 rushing yards at 7.4 yards per carry, exposing ongoing vulnerabilities that have plagued PSU in recent games. We also dive into the two-QB system deployed in the absence of starter Drew Allar, with redshirt freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer getting the nod (15/28 for 93 yards, but two costly INTs) and backup Jaxon Smolik rotating in for key scrambles and option plays— a strategy reminiscent of last season's approach but one that couldn't seal the deal. Plus, the latest on Penn State's head coaching search following James Franklin's firing: Interim coach Terry Smith dropped his debut, but he's emerging as a candidate himself. We discuss top names like Nebraska's Matt Rhule (the early favorite), Texas A&M's Mike Elko, and dark horses such as Alabama's Kalen DeBoer and Missouri's Eli Drinkwitz, as the search enters its second week with no clear frontrunner yet. Tune in for expert analysis, fan reactions, and what this means for Penn State with Ohio State and Indiana looming after the BYE week. We also answer your fan questions! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more college football breakdowns! Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions WEEK 9 PICK'EM: https://forms.gle/AdoLrKnEbcnsJgQ58

Buckle up, Nittany Nation! In this raw, unfiltered episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we dive headfirst into the chaos that's gripped Happy Valley as the 2025 season spirals into madness. With James Franklin's stunning midseason firing still sending shockwaves through the program—just days after a gut-wrenching 3-3 skid—Penn State heads into the lion's den at Kinnick Stadium for a brutal Week 8 clash against a surging Iowa squad (4-2) on October 18. Is this the rock-bottom revenge tour nobody saw coming, or the spark that reignites our playoff dreams? We break it all down with zero punches pulled. Penn State vs. Iowa Preview: Trap Game or Total Meltdown? The Hawkeyes are rolling with a punishing ground attack—led by Xavier Williams' two-TD explosion last outing and QB Mark Gronowski's dual-threat nightmare fuel. Kinnick's nightmarish atmosphere under the lights (7 p.m. ET on Peacock) has crushed bigger dreams than ours. We dissect first time-starting QB Ethan Grunkmeyer, Interim HC Terry Smith's presser, and whether our D-line (shoutout Dani Dennis-Sutton's punt-block heroics) can stuff Iowa's rush before it stuffs us.   Franklin Out, Who's Next? Holy buyout, Batman—what a bloodbath! Franklin's pink slip (after a 104-45 tenure, a '24 playoff semi, and that elusive natty) joins a 2025 carousel on steroids: UCLA, Virginia Tech, Oklahoma State (RIP Mike Gundy), Arkansas (Sam Pittman gone), Oregon State, and even Stanford's wild Frank Reich interim experiment. Is Penn State boosters' cash vault eyeing a splash like Marcus Freeman, Matt Rhule, or Urban Meyer? We discuss who we have heard, who is real, and who is not. Whether you're tailgating in Iowa's cornfields or rage-scrolling from your Beaver Stadium man cave, this ep is your survival guide to the storm. WE ARE... STILL HERE! Smash that like button, subscribe for weekly roasts, and drop your wildest coaching carousel predictions in the comments. Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions WEEK 8 PICK'EM: https://forms.gle/Bd7xBWV6ZZy9XbCy9

In this explosive episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we break down the Nittany Lions' stunning upset loss to Northwestern— a game that has fans reeling and questioning everything. Join host Shawn Kane & Cory Lestochi as we tackle the big questions head-on: James Franklin Gone, now who? We dissect the removal of James Franklin after this embarrassing defeat. Terry Smith will serve as the interim HC. We analyze his track record, fan reactions, and what the administration might be thinking. Drew Allar Out for the Season: The heartbreaking news on our star QB—how did the injury happen, what's the prognosis, and who steps up next? We explore the depth chart, backup options, and how this blows up the offense. What Now? Looking ahead to the rest of the 2025 season: roster adjustments, upcoming matchups, recruiting implications, and strategies to salvage the year. Can Penn State still make a bowl game, or is it rebuild time? Packed with expert analysis, hot takes, and your fan voicemails. If you're a die-hard PSU fan, you won't want to miss this raw discussion. Smash that like button, subscribe for more unfiltered Nittany Lions coverage, and drop your thoughts in the comments—what's your take on Franklin being fired? Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions WEEK 8 PICK'EM

In this episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we preview the Nittany Lions' crucial matchup against Northwestern as they look to snap a frustrating two-game skid. Can Penn State turn things around and get back in the win column? We break it all down, starting with why the biggest battle isn't the Wildcats—it's Penn State itself. From lingering injuries (Rojas, Donkoh) and mental lapses to execution errors that have plagued recent outings, we dissect how the team needs to overcome its own demons to regain momentum. Next, we zero in on the second-biggest challenge: the linebacker corps. With Tony Rojas still sidelined and depth issues exposed, how will the defense hold up against Northwestern's running attack led by RB Caleb Komolafe (4 TDs in past 3 games) ? We analyze potential adjustments, key players stepping up, and what it means for stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback. Finally, the big question on offense: Will they finally take control? After inconsistent play-calling and underutilized weapons, we explore if Drew Allar and the unit can dictate the pace, get Kaytron Allen more involved, and exploit Northwestern's vulnerabilities for a dominant performance. Tune in for expert breakdowns, bold predictions, and what this game means for the rest of the season. If you're bleeding blue and white, smash that like button, subscribe for more, and sound off in the comments Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions WEEK 7 PICK'EM

In this episode of Hardcore Penn State Football, we dive deep into the Nittany Lions' heartbreaking 42-37 loss to UCLA. We kick things off by breaking down how the defense struggled to get off the field, allowing the Bruins to control the clock and convert key third downs that kept drives alive far too long. Next, we explore the massive impact of linebacker Tony Rojas's injury and how it completely shifted the identity of the Penn State defense, leaving gaps in run stopping and pass coverage that UCLA exploited relentlessly. On the offensive side, quarterback Drew Allar delivered a performance that was more than good enough to secure a win—efficient passing, smart decisions, and clutch throws under pressure. But why isn't running back Kaytron Allen getting more touches? We dissect the play-calling, his underutilization in the ground game, and what it means for the backfield moving forward. Join us for raw analysis, fan reactions, and our take on what Penn State needs to fix before the bye week. If you're a die-hard Nittany Lion, hit that subscribe button, like the video, and drop your thoughts in the comments. Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs!   WEEK 7 PICK'EM

Join us for the latest episode of Hardcore Penn State Football as we dive deep into the Nittany Lions' upcoming clash with UCLA this weekend! In this preview, we break down the massive shakeup at UCLA with the recent firing of their head coach and what it means for the Bruins' strategy and morale heading into Happy Valley. Can Penn State bounce back and move forward after that tough loss to Oregon? We discuss the mental reset, key player adjustments, and how the team can channel that setback into fuel for a dominant performance. Plus, we explore potential changes on offense – from play-calling tweaks to lineup shifts – that could unlock PSU's full potential against a vulnerable UCLA defense. Special guest Rich Scarcella from the Reading Eagle joins the show to share his expert insights, insider scoops, and predictions for the game. Don't miss this must-watch episode for every Penn State fan! Hit that LIKE button if you're ready for a big win, SUBSCRIBE for more Hardcore breakdowns, and drop your game predictions in the comments below. Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions WEEK 6 PICK'EM

Buckle up for the Hardcore Penn State Football Podcast as we unpack the gut-wrenching 30-24 double-overtime loss to No. 6 Oregon in Week 6's White Out thriller at Beaver Stadium! In front of a shattering 111,015 fans clad in white, the Nittany Lions (3-1, 0-1 Big Ten) fought valiantly in a rematch of last year's Big Ten Championship but couldn't overcome offensive woes, a toothless defense, and another signature defeat for James Franklin. Oregon (5-0, 2-0) extends its regular-season Big Ten win streak to 12, but PSU's playoff dreams took a hit. We're dissecting the film, the what-ifs, and the path forward—because even in defeat, We Are! Drew Allar’s rollercoaster season hit a devastating low in the White Out spotlight, completing just 18-of-35 passes for 212 yards, 2 TDs, and one crushing interception—a game-sealing pick on his first throw of the second overtime that handed Oregon the win. The senior flashed poise with a 42-yard bomb to Devonte Ross and a clutch two-minute drill to tie it late, but his streaky arm (underthrows to Trebor Peña, forced throws into double coverage) and footwork issues under pressure from Oregon’s front seven led to a season-low 51% completion rate. After 722 yards and 7 TDs through three games, Allar’s boom-or-bust pattern is now a glaring concern—can he lock in before Ohio State, or is this the regression we feared? Penn State’s vaunted defense, which suffocated Nevada, FIU, and Villanova, was shockingly passive against Oregon’s tempo offense, mustering only one tackle for loss while allowing 428 total yards and 5.2 yards per carry. The unit bent but rarely broke—holding the Ducks to 3-of-12 on third downs but lacked the disruptive edge from Zuriah Fisher (just 2 tackles) and Tony Rojas (8 stops but no splash plays). In double OT, Oregon’s explosive runs and Dante Moore’s poise exposed coverage lapses, leading to back-to-back TDs. Under DC Jim Knowles, this was a wake-up call: Where was the swarm we saw in the shutouts? James Franklin’s 4-12 lifetime record against top-10 foes (now 4-13 after this gut-punch) looms larger than ever, as Oregon blew a 17-10 fourth-quarter lead and but PSU couldn’t close in OT despite a roaring White Out crowd that forced two false starts on the Ducks. Franklin’s conservative calls—settling for Ryan Barker’s career-long 49-yarder early and punting on 4th-and-2—drew post-game heat, and his teams’ 1-5 mark in OT games since 2014 feels cursed. Despite a gritty comeback capped by Kaytron Allen’s 4-yard OT TD run (he and Nicholas Singleton combined for 142 rushing yards), Franklin admitted the execution fell short. With a loaded schedule ahead, can he finally exorcise these October demons and salvage a playoff run? Hats off to Oregon’s dynamic duo—head coach Dan Lanning schemed a masterpiece, bottling PSU’s run game (3.8 yards per carry) with aggressive blitzes and tempo shifts that neutralized the Lions’ O-line. Transfer QB Dante Moore was unflappable in the cauldron, going 22-of-30 for 285 yards and 3 TDs (including a 25-yard OT dagger to Gary Bryant Jr. and an 8-yarder to Dierre Hill Jr.), while adding 42 rushing yards to cap a 54-point-per-game Ducks offense. Lanning’s staff turned the White Out into a house of horrors for Penn State, proving Oregon is the Big Ten’s new alpha and a legit national title contender. Respect earned—now how does PSU respond? The loss drops PSU to No. 7 in the AP Poll, but with winnable games against UCLA and Northwestern next, there’s time to climb back into playoff contention. We’re analyzing the offensive line, debating Allar’s benching buzz, and previewing how the D-line can rediscover its edge. Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs! #WeAre #PennStateFootball #nittanylions WEEK 6 PICK'EM