Penn State’s football program has resurfaced in the national conversation, landing at No. 18 in the 2026 Associated Press preseason poll. The ranking reflects a decade‑long pattern of preseason recognition, including a historic No. 3 placement just three years ago under former head coach James Franklin.
A New Era Under Matt Campbell
First‑year head coach Matt Campbell now guides the Nittany Lions, taking over a program that finished the previous season unranked despite a late‑season surge under interim coach Terry Smith. Campbell’s arrival coincides with a comprehensive roster overhaul, as the team welcomes 40 transfers and integrates fresh talent into both offensive and defensive units.
The non‑conference slate begins on September 5 with a home matchup against Marshall at Beaver Stadium, followed by contests against Temple and Buffalo. Big Ten rivals such as Ohio State, Michigan, and Washington loom as the most formidable challenges, while the schedule also includes a clash with USC that could test the team’s early momentum.
Key additions include senior quarterback Rocco Becht, who arrives from the transfer portal and is expected to anchor the offense. Complementary pieces such as running back Carson Hanson, wide receivers Chase Sowell and Amarion Jackson, and offensive lineman Trevor Buhr aim to diversify the attack. On defense, Penn State alum D'Anton Lynn, now the defensive coordinator, will oversee a revamped front line and secondary, hoping to translate his familiarity with the program into immediate impact.
The coaching staff also retains familiar faces like Tony Rojas, Jeremiah Cooper, Gabe Burkle, and Ben Brahmer, whose experience provides continuity amid the influx of new players. Analysts view the Nittany Lions as a second‑tier Big Ten contender for now, but the blend of veteran leadership and fresh talent could elevate the team beyond preseason expectations.
The program’s recent history includes the abrupt departure of James Franklin, who was dismissed amid a six‑game losing streak that left the team unranked despite a late‑season turnaround under interim coach Terry Smith. Franklin’s exit underscored the volatility of college football leadership and set the stage for Campbell’s ambitious rebuild.