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5. Penn State: Impressive
Tight end Tyler Warren and edge-rusher Abdul Carter leave monstrous voids at Penn State. Also, the Nittany Lions are undeniably the early winner of the offseason. They’re bringing back a load of NFL-worthy talent, from QB Drew Allar and running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen to defensive linemen Dani Dennis-Sutton and Zane Durant. Penn State’s dream of a championship run is well underway.
Have you heard the name “Arch Manning” lately? Would you like to learn more about Arch Manning? Arch Manning, who has several famous relatives, will be the quarterback at Texas next season. In all seriousness, the hype is warranted for the Longhorns as a whole. The defense was exceptional and should again be a loaded unit in 2025, setting up Texas for another CFP charge if the Horns can manage a schedule with trips to Ohio State, Florida and Georgia, among others.
Though the CFP turned into a disaster for Oregon, that letdown is presumably only a blip on the radar. Armed with healthy financial support, the Ducks are major players on the recruiting trail and in the portal—with a strong coaching staff, too. How effectively the offense shifts from Dillon Gabriel to Dante Moore will determine Oregon’s upside.
The stunning loss to Northern Illinois won’t be forgotten, but it certainly does not matter to Notre Dame anymore. That nightmare can merely be remembered as fuel for 2024’s runner-up finish, one that legitimized Marcus Freeman’s vision in South Bend. Notre Dame is always an attractive destination, and a 14-win season only increases the appeal.
On the heels of winning a national title, Ohio State is faced with a juxtaposition. The program absolutely should celebrate that accomplishment—and fans, in particular, will be enjoying it during the offseason. However, the team is bracing for many changes as that senior-heavy roster moves on. Throw in an impending QB competition, and the Ryan Day-led coaching staff has a busy spring and summer ahead.
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