Penn Stated: Talking Penn State Football with Donnie Collins

Penn State knows where it's ranked (not that it matters).They'll sign up for finishing where they start, too.On this week's episode of the Penn Stated podcast, co-hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin of The Times-Tribune in Scranton discuss the Nittany Lions' season-opening No. 8 ranking in the Associated Press poll, which was released on Tuesday. Obviously, they will be happy to finish there in the College Football Playoff rankings, considering a No. 8 will get them a home game in the first round of the 12-team tournament. But are they overrated in that spot, or underrated?Donnie and Sam discuss that, as well as the overrated-or-underrated question on the rest of the nine teams that comprise the top 10, including three other Big Ten teams: No. 2 Ohio State, No. 3 Oregon and No. 9 Michigan.In the second segment, the hosts discuss the most important players on the Penn State roster this season, drafting their top 6 players in terms of importance. Some may surprise you. Others might not.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Penn State's depth took a hit last week.Or, maybe more accurately, the reality of Penn State's depth at certain positions came to light.But as the Nittany Lions' local media day came and went last weekend. one theme emerged: There's guarded optimism around the program that enough players are ready to take the next step that we could be seeing a new era of Nittany Lions football once the season starts on Aug. 31 in West Virginia.On this week's episode of the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin discuss that gap between Penn State's hopes and the expectations of the programs at the top of the food chain in the Big Ten and around the nation. How close is Penn State this season to potentially getting to that level? What do they need to happen? Are there too many unknowns?Donnie and Sam also discuss the value of captains, the depth at cornerback, and the level of their confidence in where the program is at now in relation to a year ago.Plus, should Michigan's national championship be stricken from the books after the NCAA came down with a "heavy" sanction against head coach Jim Harbaugh for recruiting violations? Tune in to find out their take.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Penn State will play football this month, so let the conjecture begin. And, there is certainly plenty to conject (granted, that might not be a word) about as the Nittany Lions opened training camp this week.Hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin give their thoughts on the suspensions of second-year standouts Jameial Lyons and Kaveion Keys and what their current status means for a defense that is on the thin side without them, especially at defensive end. Who could step up there, and is there any chance it means not having to roll the dice on a young player with little experience?Donnie and Sam also delve into some of the issues on offense, including the issue brought up in recent weeks by an unlikely source: Leadership. Is quarterback Drew Allar ready to take the offense by the scruff and guide it to newer heights? Is that necessary? All that, and more, on the Season 3 debut episode of the Penn Stated podcast.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Co-hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin of The Times-Tribune in Scranton wind down the second season of the Penn Stated podcast with a look ahead to training camp opening in a month.But, they also celebrate Independence Day with an honest look at the realities the program and its head coach are facing.In the opening segment, the hosts discuss the stories they're looking at closest as camp approaches, with each picking one of the new coordinators. They wind down with a look at the role coaching plays at Penn State, why it's so important and how difficult James Franklin's job realistically is to do, with the expectations on him and the team to make the inaugural 12-team playoff this winter.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

The Penn Stated podcast returns with discussion about expansions, and contractions.The Board of Trustees' approval to spend up to $690 million on the long-awaited renovation of Beaver Stadium dominates the discussion between hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin of The Scranton Times-Tribune, with both expressing concerns over the project and also recognizing its necessity.In the second half, they talk about Penn State baseball's sudden rise to prominence over the past week in the Big Ten tournament, signaling a potential turnaround for the program under first-year coach Mike Gambino. But as it always seems to do, the conversation turned to the impact NIL is having on roster management in college football after a slew of players entered the NCAA transfer portal this month.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Fresh off the weekend's NFL Draft, Penn Stated hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin took some time this week to discuss the landing spots for eight Nittany Lions chosen and the plight of some who weren't.Who went earlier than anticipated?What does the influx of Penn State players taken higher in the middle rounds than anticipated say about the program -- positively, or negatively?Penn State had twice as many players selected as Ohio State...what does that say about the 2023 season?And, does the order in which the players were ultimately selected matter much? It probably does to James Franklin.Donnie and Sam discuss all of that and more this week.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Well, the changes in the wide receiver room that most expected to see in the Blue-White Game last week started to take shape a few days before. Former top target KeAndre Lambert-Smith is in the transfer portal, and so is another veteran, Malick Meiga, who could have contributed toward replacing him.The question now for Penn State is, what's next at a position that has caused plenty of consternation in recent months? Penn Stated hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin discuss Lambert-Smith's departure, and perhaps more importantly, how the coaching staff plans to replace his production.Is it going to be through the transfer portal? One of the hosts has his doubts, especially after a decent outing in the Blue-White Game for a few younger players.Donnie and Sam also discuss the players who impressed them most in the spring scrimmage, and debate the best use of converted defensive end Abdul Carter, who will certainly add to a lethal rotation at defensive end but who also showed Saturday how valuable it is to have him on the field, somewhere.All that, and more, in this week's edition of Penn Stated.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Sam Fremin will be on the desk on Saturday, but Penn Stated co-host Donnie Collins will be at Beaver Stadium for his "favorite" day of the year, the Blue-White Game at 2 p.m. on Saturday. But both hosts think this game has a chance to be one of the most educational spring-practice-ending games in recent memory.On this week's episode of Penn Stated, the hosts break down the positions to watch in Saturday's game, led by a group of talented but inexperienced cornerbacks and a receiving corps that underachieved and underwhelmed in 2023. Which players in that group have the best chance to stand out heading into the summer?Donnie and Sam also spend some time discussing the commitment of Spring-Ford High School quarterback Matt Zollers - one of the top prospects in Pennsylvania in the 2025 recruiting class - to Missouri. What does that say about the role NIL is playing in college sports? And, is it necessarily a bad thing for the game to see a top prospect eschew the top schools in favor of better opportunities at an up-and-coming program? To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

It's finally over.And we're not just talking about the All-James Franklin team, either.As spring practice inches closer to the annual Blue-White Game at Beaver Stadium on April 13, Penn Stated hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin open this week's podcast by breaking down the most interesting storylines of the spring to this point...and how they can manifest themselves in the spring-closing scrimmage next weekend.How much of new coordinator Andy Kotelnicki's offense should fans expect to see in the Blue-White Game?Who are some of the players at key positions who need to have big games?Can the offense and defense work together in the game to achieve some goals heading into what is going to be a hotly contested fall camp with plenty of change afoot for the Nittany Lions?But the main event of this edition of the show is the conclusion of the All-James Franklin team. Celebrating Franklin's 10 seasons with the Nittany Lions, Donnie and Sam spent the last several weeks picking the best players at each position during the Franklin era, and they wind that team down this week with their picks at punter and kicker, and their four wild-card selections. Who didn't make the cut originally at their positions, but do now? And, what do the hosts feel was the most competitive position to pick a first-teamer at during this process? The answer might be surprising.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

As spring practice started in the last week, much of the conversation revolved around two position switches: The oft-talked-about move of Abdul Carter from linebacker to defensive end, and sophomore safety Mekhi Flowers' much-less-bandied-about move to receiver.Head coach James Franklin said during a press conference last week that both moves were precipitated by player request, which of course piqued the interest of both Penn Stated hosts, Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin.Is that indicative of a shift in philosophy for coaches who are more likely now to give a player what he wants to keep him happy and on the roster? Is it more about players feeling more empowered to ask for those changes?Or, is it simply something that happened all the time behind the scenes anyway, and just happened to be a big topic of discussion this year at two positions that needed extra manpower?Donnie and Sam discussed their thoughts on all of that, plus other positional battles that are intriguing them as the Blue-White Game approaches next month.The hosts also make their selections at Quarterback and Defensive End on the All-James Franklin team, which will wind down with a full roster next week.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

With the latest round of betting odds on who will win the 2024 Big Ten football championship coming out this week, Penn State finds itself in a typical position: Behind both Ohio State and Michigan, with Oregon having better odds as well, at least when it comes to public perception.But, is that necessarily an accurate way to look at how the Big Ten is shaping up this fall?On this week's edition of the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin discuss the odds, and why the Nittany Lions might be in a better position than many might think to finally break through at the top of the Big Ten standings for the first time in eight years come December.They also continue to round out the All-James Franklin Team, honoring the top players at each position during the head coach's first 10 years at Penn State. This week, they break down two loaded positions: Receiver and linebacker.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

It sure seems that way, if the reaction to Penn State's typically benign "competitors of the day" for winter workouts is any indication. With backup quarterback Beau Pribula practically sweeping the honor from quarterbacks coach Danny O'Brien in the early going during workouts, many commenters on social media are wondering if that gives the sophomore any edge in a potential quarterback battle with starter Drew Allar this spring. Well, Penn Stated hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin have some news for those of you looking forward to the backup quarterback knocking off the incumbent.It isn't going to happen.Donnie and Sam also delve deep into the decision to move star junior Abdul Carter from the linebacker spot to defensive end for the 2024 season; Which of the hosts thinks it still might not happen, and which is convinced it will wind up being a boon to the defense that has thrived on a consistent pass rush the past few seasons?They both discuss the Board of Trustees' fumbling of backroom talks to name Beaver Stadium after former head coach Joe Paterno, and continue to build the current coach's All-Franklin team in the second segment - it's time to add the tight ends, offensive tackles and defensive tackles to the first and second teams - on a jam-packed episode of the podcast this week.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Another week has passed, and college football has changed even more. That's the story of the game now, and it will continue to be for the foreseeable future.On this week's episode of the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin discuss Bill O'Brien to Boston College, Chip Kelly to Ohio State, and more moves that wouldn't have been expected in college football as recently as just a few years ago. They also talk about James Franklin's thoughts on the subject from his winter workouts press conference on Tuesday.What is the one area that needs to be fixed most for the health of the game in the free agency era? The answer Donnie and Sam provide might surprise you.The guys also spend the second segment discussing the latest additions to their All-Franklin Team, and there are some potentially controversial ones as they pick their top cornerbacks, guards and centers. Who is the Penn State star one host insists wouldn't have made his team despite multiple years worth of All-Big Ten honors?They also close with a tribute to near-Super Bowl MVP Ji'Ayir Brown, whose rookie season ended with a loss to the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

National Letter of Intent Signing Day -- the "traditional" one, anyway -- came and went rather silently for Penn State in 2024. But there was still plenty of recruiting talk on the latest edition of the Penn Stated podcast.Hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin broke down the fall of the February signing period and delved into the reasons why arguably the biggest non-gameday of the year in college football lost importance and will continue to do so. But in celebration of what the day used to be, they also further broke down Penn State's 2024 recruiting class that signed during the "early" signing period in December. Their focus: The handful of players in that class who did not yet enroll at Penn State. Which three do the hosts think have the best shot at enrolling during the summer and still seeing some playing time in the fall?After that, they got down to the real business of the show: The long-awaited start of the selection process for the All-James Franklin team.Donnie and Sam picked the first and second-team running backs and safeties in celebration of Franklin's recently completed 10th season as Nittany Lions head coach, and there may be a handful of surprises.A particular NJCAA powerhouse based in Scranton might have a few names on the list already, too.Find out who got the first spots on Donnie and Sam's All-Franklin team starting now...To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

The longer you go without rules, the harder it will be to make rules.The NCAA might learn that lesson the hard way as it pursues sanctions against Tennessee for alleged recruiting violations stemming from a collective that works closely with athletes at the university in the Name, Image, Likeness realm.It's a story that affects all of college football, including Penn State, as collectives play a bigger and bigger role in attracting star athletes to the universities they choose to represent, promising cash and business opportunities.On this week's episode of the Penn Stated podcast, host Donnie Collins talks about what the Tennessee case could mean for Penn State and other major programs. But he also brings in a special guest - legendary Scranton Times-Tribune high school sports beat writer Joby Fawcett - to discuss the positives and negatives of NIL as it trickles down into the high school ranks.We know how it's likely affecting some athletes now.But, will high school sports exist in its current form in a decade or so after NIL gets done changing them, and the attitudes of high school-aged athletes and their parents?Donnie also delves into the postseason all-star games in college football, where a handful of Penn State's draft-eligible players are looking to make names for themselves in front of NFL scouts. Which one has impressed Donnie the most over the last week?That answer might surprise you.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Shall they inherit the playing time?That's the question hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin set out to answer on this week's edition of the Penn Stated podcast, when they break down the 16 early enrollees on Penn State's spring roster.Which of them do Donnie and Sam believe will have the best chance to compete for playing time immediately with a big spring? Who is the prospect we'll learn most about simply by which position the coaching staff chooses to start him at?And will the highest-rated -- and arguably best -- prospect of them all have perhaps the most difficult road to earn a shot at seeing the field with regularity in the fall?The guys then spend the second segment discussing the new NIL-based methods by which the Ohio State Buckeyes are loading their roster this offseason. Is overloading the roster with talent out of the transfer portal necessarily the best way to build a cohesive team? Free agency in other sports indicate it isn't necessarily a clear path to greatness.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Changes abound in college football, and of course, Penn State wasn't immune to them in the last week.With special teams coordinator Stacy Collins off to Boise State, head coach James Franklin worked quickly to replace him by bringing in Vanderbilt's Justin Lustig. But the greater coaching chaos around the country obviously dwarfed the third coordinator change on Penn State's staff this offseason.This week on the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin talked about what areas Lustig could make an immediate impact in Happy Valley, and why one less talked-about part of his position might actually be a boon for the coaching staff.They also take a deep dive into Nick Saban's retirement at Alabama and the ripple effect associated with it around college football. When coaches talk about necessary change around the game, maybe the University of Arizona would be a good example to look toward.Donnie and Sam also...finally...delve into some listener requests and talk about whether there should be a legitimate quarterback competition heading into 2024 after Drew Allar's performance in his debut season as a starter. The bottom line: Of course there should be. But, it also comes with a bit of advice. Calm down. And understand the importance of development, especially at the quarterback position.All that -- and, of course, more! -- on the podcast this week.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

On a super-sized edition of the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin don't just talk about the many issues of the day surrounding the Nittany Lions and college football.They break down the scary hypotheticals.What happens when the transfer portal doesn't bring in a difference-maker? Penn State battled that at receiver next year; Does that make it even more important for Julian Fleming to succeed in 2024?Is "fit" more important than "numbers?" Probably. But one can be measured, while the other is more an art.Is it a big deal that Kalen King couldn't risk injury in the Peach Bowl, but will at the Senior Bowl? To some, sure. But, should players who are sure-bet top picks really be playing any college games once they've established their draft stock?If former Maryland quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa is granted a fifth season of true NCAA eligibility, what does that mean for eligibility's very existence moving forward? Will we see professional college football players?Oh, and Michigan won the national championship. Donnie and Sam talk about that, and what it means for Penn State football -- even if fans won't love the means by which the answer came about.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Penn State lost the Peach Bowl on Dec. 30.Penn State also played the game without four of its top players and saw a handful of other stars play only in the first half.In this week's edition of the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins (The Scranton Times-Tribune) and Sam Fremin (The Citizens Voice) review the 38-25 defeat at the hands of Ole Miss at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta with an eye toward the game's greater meaning. With Nittany Lions fans frustrated by the performance, it's worth asking: Does a game played without Olu Fashanu, Chop Robinson, Kalen King and Johnny Dixon -- and with Curtis Jacobs, Adisa Isaac and Caedan Wallace playing just about a half -- tell us anything about what the Nittany Lions really were in 2023?Also, and perhaps most importantly, does it have any meaning for 2024? Or is it, as one of the hosts suggested, a glorified exhibition that ranks ahead of only the Blue-White Game in importance among games played in the last calendar year?In a landscape where opt-outs have become a major storyline outside of the College Football Playoff, does losing a New Year's Six game mean anything at all, really?Donnie and Sam also discussed the theme of the season further, the apparent lack of development of the wide receiving corps, which didn't record a catch in the Peach Bowl until the fourth quarter. The hosts discuss that position, and even got some breaking news during the recording about a top transfer target committing to the Nittany Lions who could have a major impact on the position next year.All that, and more. Including pressing discussions on...Hypothetically, would the Penn State fans who want to move on from James Franklin as head coach be welcoming to a replacement who might be eager to take the job, Ole Miss' Lane Kiffin?Why would the College Football Playoff even consider putting a Group of Five team in the 12-team championship tournament if they fall outside the top 12 in the rankings?Who will win the national championship?To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

And so it ends for Penn State in 2023.The Peach Bowl kicks off on Saturday at noon, and the Nittany Lions are a prohibitive favorite to end the 2023 season with 11 wins and hope for the 2024 season.But, will whatever happens on Saturday in Atlanta at Mercedez-Benz Stadium against No. 11 Ole Miss matter going forward?Hosts Donnie Collins (The Scranton Times-Tribune) and Sam Fremin (Citizens Voice) discuss that and just about every other topic surrounding Penn State -- opt outs, the transfer portal, and even some recruiting -- in their breakdown of the 2023 Peach Bowl.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

There's a lot going on at Penn State and around college football, weeks after the regular season ended.The transfer portal remains open.Bowl prep is ongoing.National Letter of Intent Signing Day is a week away, and coaches everywhere are trying to lock down their final verbal commitments on the recruiting trail.Plus, in Happy Valley, there's the matter of finding someone to run the defense after Manny Diaz took the head coaching position at Duke last week.On this week's episode of the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins (The Scranton Times-Tribune) and Sam Fremin (Citizens Voice) try to sort out as much of the goings-on as possible, focusing on the areas Penn State needs to address as the Peach Bowl approaches on Dec. 30.It starts with finding a successor for Diaz: Does his familiarity with the roster and experience working alongside Diaz make current safeties coach Anthony Poindexter a favorite? Or, should head coach James Franklin look to the outside, for a bigger name with more recent results as a defensive coordinator?But, Penn State also needs to get busy in the transfer portal, where they're hoping to host a slew of players on campus this weekend. Obviously, they need receivers, but who would be the best fits? And, what kind of message does it send to high school recruits if players who spurned Penn State in the past are asked to return?Donnie and Sam also chat about which players on the current roster who are on the borderline between the NFL and returning would best be served coming back -- and which ones Penn State needs back the most.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Penn State has its bowl destination. It has another berth in a New Year's Six game. It has another chance to build excitement for 2024 with a signature win.Players have the transfer portal open, the right to reevaluate their current standing with a program, the chance to pursue something greater if they choose.It's the week of opportunity around college football (unless you're Florida State, of course), and the Nittany Lions are in the thick of it.On this week's episode of the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins (The Scranton Times-Tribune) and Sam Fremin (The Citizens Voice) discuss the Florida State dis, whether the CFP committee got that right, and whether Penn State should be playing Ole Miss at all (one of the hosts says it should be Oklahoma).The also debate whether this is a "dangerous" matchup for a Penn State team that isn't going against a blueblood, is likely to be favored, and yet is facing a team with plenty of offensive weapons and an underrated defense that may be better than the nation thinks. In short: Would winning this game move the needle much for the Penn State fan base?Donnie and Sam also discuss defensive end Chop Robinson's declaration for the NFL Draft and rank where he fits among Penn State ends of the last 30 years. Plus, as the transfer portal opens, they talk about why Penn State hasn't been as affected by the transfer portal as other programs have been this season, the ways they've used it better than anybody, and why head coach James Franklin is handling the challenges of program leadership in a more individual-focused era better than others in his position.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Penn State made it official on Friday, announcing the hiring of former Kansas assistant coach Andy Kotelnicki as its next offensive coordinator. The news broke Thursday, and Nittany Lions fans have largely been expressing their pleasure with the move since. So have the national writers and analysts who praise Kotelnicki for his creativity and innovation.But, that doesn't mean there won't be questions about how successful he'll be at Penn State.Penn Stated hosts Donnie Collins (Scranton Times) and Sam Fremin (Citizens Voice) break down the hire in a special episode of the podcast and discuss whether this is the home-run hire many think it will be.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

At some point in the next few days, it seems possible -- if not likely -- Penn State will name its next offensive coordinator. On this week's edition of the Penn Stated podcast, host Donnie Collins (Scranton Times-Tribune) makes his pitch against a big-name, outside-the-program hire to esteemed co-host Sam Fremin (Citizens Voice). That begs the question: Did running backs coach Ja'Juan Seider and tight ends coach Ty Howle do enough in their role as interim coordinators to make a case the job is best kept in their hands heading into 2024?At the very least, their work the last two games shows that complimentary and collaborative works.Donnie and Sam also get into the all-Big Ten teams, which as usual raised a lot of questions about what voters really value when it comes to voting for players. Which host thinks free notebooks might have a big say?And with the transfer portal set to open next week, and a slew of players already announcing intentions to enter this week, Donnie and Sam become the latest to debate the positives and negatives of a rule that continues to shake up college football.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

You may have heard, Penn State is in the market for an offensive coordinator. But, the most important coordinator to this team in 2024 is one that already is on the sidelines.On this week's episode of the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins (The Scranton Times-Tribune) and Sam Fremin (Citizens Voice) discuss both the contributions of defensive coordinator Manny Diaz over his two seasons with the program, and what keeping him around would mean for the future.Do either think Diaz would consider leaving Penn State to take another defensive coordinator's job somewhere else? On the Thanksgiving edition of the podcast, Donnie and Sam also discuss the quarterback situation, where Beau Pribula's running ability added a different dimension to the offense once starter Drew Allar left the Rutgers game with an injury last Saturday. They discuss whether a case could be made that Penn State should go with a two-quarterback system, or whether sticking it out with Allar is the best way to go for the future.Plus, what is Sam's favorite Thanksgiving meal? Since James Franklin never asked, it's time to get that information out there.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Mike Yurcich is gone. Penn State's Big Ten championships hopes are, too. James Franklin is under questioning. And the Nittany Lions are going to be under the microscope as the season winds down.On this week's episode of the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins (The Scranton Times-Tribune) and Sam Fremin (The Citizens Voice) break down Franklin's decision to fire Yurcich and pursue his sixth offensive coordinator in 11 seasons.What does it mean for Penn State's head coach, as he approaches what Sam calls the most critical hire of his tenure? And, what traits should he be looking for in the next coordinator? Donnie and Sam both give their thoughts on that, and make their picks.Plus, they discuss why Yurcich failed to get the offense to reach the levels most expected he would, the negative fan reaction after the loss and...of course...2-point conversions and the value of common sense.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Coming off its best offensive performance in a month, No. 10 Penn State has a shot at redemption.The problem is, it comes against No. 3 Michigan.On this week's edition of the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins (Scranton Times-Tribune) and Sam Fremin (Citizens Voice) talk about what the dominant performance against Maryland might mean this week against the mighty Wolverines.But...does it mean anything?Donnie and Sam also talk with Scranton Times-Tribune wrestling writer and copy editor Joe Baress -- Northeast Pennsylvania's resident Michigan Man -- who is unashamedly pro sign-stealing (sort of). To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Guard your WiFi passwords. That man you don't know, sitting in your rocking chair...could be a Michigan operative.The rogue, low-level staffer still still seems quite chummy with Jim Harbaugh and his Michigan assistants as the Wolverines alleged signal-stealing scandal inches into November. And with new photos alleging that staffer, the ever slippery Connor Stalions, was on the Chippewas sideline to pilfer all the information he could during a game against Michigan rival Michigan State earlier this season, the controversy is only heating up.On this week's edition of the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins (Scranton Times-Tribune) and Sam Fremin (Citizens Voice) talk about the affectt the scandal could have not just on the Nittany Lions' clash with Michigan on Nov. 11, but the Wolverines' perception in the College Football Playoff rankings.Speaking of, Penn State ranks No. 11 in the initial CFP rankings. Is that a fair spot to place the Lions? And, what does that potentially say about the future. Donnie and Sam discuss that, after they take a deep dive into the key positions on offense the NIttany Lions need to improve if they still want to be a title contender this season.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

It's the question most Penn State fans have been wrestling with since the Nittany Lions lost the latest in a long line of existential struggles against Ohio State last Saturday, and frankly, they should be used to the feeling by now.Penn State's 11-game winning streak and circled the drain yet again against the Buckeyes, leaving the rest of what once was viewed as a potential breakthrough season very much in doubt.Penn Stated hosts Donnie Collins (Scranton Times-Tribune) and Sam Fremin (Citizens Voice) talked about many of the issues that now surround a program that just can't seem to get past the top-level teams in the Big Ten. Even when it seems as if it has every reason to believe it should.They give their thoughts on whether fans should have belief in the program as it stands right now. They also delve into their thoughts on who is most to blame for the latest Buckeyes defeat, and who is getting too much of the blame. Is head coach James Franklin the right man for the job, and should one poorly-coached loss change that?Should this be a defining moment for quarterback Drew Allar, who did not play well?As usual, there are a lot of questions with this program.And, the answers aren't as easy to come by.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

The date that has been circled for months is almost here.For Penn State, it's the day that means everything.With the No. 7 Nittany Lions preparing for its annual existential struggle against No. 3 Ohio State on Saturday in Columbus, Penn Stated hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin discuss every angle of the Big Ten's biggest game to this point in the 2023 season. The winner will be positioned to face Michigan in the de facto Big Ten East championship game in November, but for Penn State, the game feels bigger.It feels like a moment in time.Like an opportunity to make another step long awaited since the Nittany Lions last defeated Ohio State in 2016, since head coach James Franklin's now famous "elite" speech in 2018.Donnie and Sam look at the impact of quarterback Drew Allar, playing in his first-ever national-spotlight game on the road -- and in his home state. They talk about the strengths, and rare weaknesses, of the Buckeyes offense. And, they give their predictions on who will win and what will be the biggest reason why.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

After the bye week, Penn Stated podcast hosts Donnie Collins (Scranton Times-Tribune) and Sam Fremin (Citizens Voice) return with plenty to discuss as the No. 6 Nittany Lions host UMass on Saturday.Most of it, they freely admit, is absolute nonsense.Head coach James Franklin's comments on nonconference scheduling made quite a national stir this week - centered in especially sensitive Michigan, as usual - but Donnie and Sam discuss whether it's much ado about nothing, the sign of things to come that might not be the best thing for college football, or both.Of course, since everyone is talking about it, they discuss how a badly worded question at a press conference can still be a good question about what the future might hold for Penn State's offense.  Even if it makes Franklin's skin curl.And, they spend the second segment bantering about their own hot takes on Penn State, the Big Ten and the college football world. Does Sam think James Franklin can ever win a national championship?What does Donnie think is the worst division in major college football?And, is college football as a whole really going down a path that's better than the one that hardly ever provided the nation with a definitive champion?All that and more on this week's Penn Stated.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Penn State's defense so thoroughly dominated Iowa in the White Out last week, the numbers were difficult to believe. The helpless Hawkeyes went three-and-out -- or worse -- on eight of their 10 drives. They gained 2 total yards from the end of the first quarter until a garbage-time drive in the fourth. In a clinic on how creative, how explosive, the Nittany Lions can be, the question remains: Did the Nittany Lions set an impossible standard against a confused and overwhelmed Iowa team that came into the game unbeaten with a No. 24 ranking?Penn Stated co-hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin discuss whether there's possibly more big things coming with a Nittany Lions defense that has forced nine turnovers in the last eight quarters of football this season. With the innovative Manny Diaz calling the shots and a talented corps of youngsters like Chop Robinson, Adisa Isaac and Abdul Carter implementing them, anything seems possible right now for the Nittany Lions defense.Donnie and Sam also talk about the Penn State receiving corps and its yet-undisplayed ability to make big plays, and there's a spirited debate about which team is the best in the Big Ten West division.They also talk about much more pressing matters, like nicknames and coffee. To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Penn State-Iowa might be the second-most important rivalry in the Big Ten these days, and this weekend, it gets the White Out treatment at Beaver Stadium.On this week's episode of the Penn Stated football podcast, hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin discuss the potential for this matchup to be an emotional one after their charged 2021 matchup. Of what two games from the past did that one remind Donnie and Sam, and do they think head coach James Franklin won't give what happened that night at Kinnick Stadium a second thought this week?They also broke down the 30-13 win over Illinois last Saturday. The defense was dominant, but what position on the offense concerned them the most?And for good measure, Donnie and Sam delved into that ever-pressing question: If James Franklin were for some reason to leave Penn State at the end of the season -- which isn't going to happen, so stop even thinking about it -- should the Nittany Lions consider bringing Deion Sanders in to run the show?To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

He is a team captain.A walk-on turned scholarship recipient.A special teams maven.A valuable linebacker who someday may be a starter.But most of all, Wyoming Area grad Dominic DeLuca is "a nice guy."That's a rare compliment in football, but teammates say DeLuca's attitude has helped unite the team and make him one of the most respected members of the locker room.So this week, on the Penn Stated podcast, hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin talk about the value DeLuca's outlook on his own career and the game has on the team, and the adulation he has received from his Pick-6 in the win over Delaware last weekend.Donnie and Sam also debate:The potential pitfalls -- if there are any, of course -- of inserting different players in the starting lineup and playing more and more players on a weekly basis. Head coach James Franklin's insistence that defensive coordinators should be prepared for backup quarterback Beau Pribula to play more when the game is on the line. Sure, he can run and is off to a nice start in relief. But is taking the ball out of Drew Allar's hands really what the Nittany Lions should be doing?What are AP Poll voters telling Penn State by moving teams ranked behind them ahead of them in back-to-back polls?The winners of the weekly Penn Stated Unsung MVP awards on offense, defense and special teams.All this and more on the latest Penn Stated.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@scrantontimes.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

So...Drew Allar lived up to the hype.Penn State's prized sophomore threw for 325 yards in his first career start and led the Nittany Lions to victory last Saturday against West Virginia. That didn't surprise hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin, who talked in this week's episode of the Penn Stated podcast about what impressed them most about Allar's performance.But, there was much more to dissect from the opener, including the somewhat controversial -- at least from West Virginia coach Neal Brown's perspective -- late touchdown scored on backup quarterback Beau Pribula's lone drive. Was that criticism justified, or just ridiculous?Donnie and Sam also break down the performance of Penn State's highly touted defense and whether the Mountaineers' relative success running the ball Saturday might be a harbinger of issues to come for the Nittany Lions down the road.Plus, find out who Donnie and Sam thought were the biggest surprises of the game, on both sides of the ball. Donnie also lists his Hidden Heroes of the week.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

The 2023 season is just a few days away, and plenty is going to change for Penn State. What shouldn't is what should be clear by now.Hosts Donnie Collins and Sam Fremin discuss the No. 7 Nittany Lions' season opener on this week's edition of the Penn Stated podcast, with a focus on the should-be starting quarterback Drew Allar and what he potentially brings to the offense. Do Donnie and Sam think the former five-star prospect can actually start off strong and be a catalyst against West Virginia?Other topics on the agenda include the Big Ten's long-overdue policy requiring teams to release pregame availability data -- and why Donnie thinks this will be a sad goodbye to the halcyon days of the overly paranoid head coaches around college football. Donnie and Sam also discuss not just how West Virginia can pull off an upset, but whether it seems likely.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

On Sept. 2, Penn State will storm onto Beaver Stadium for its home opener against West Virginia with a promising young offense that, someday, might be among the best in the nation.They also enter facing a much less enticing reality. That "someday" could be further down the road, while their best shot to claim a national championship is the one that stands directly in front of them, led by a defense that is ready to be counted with the nation's best.On this week's return of Penn Stated, host Donnie Collins and guest Sam Fremin of The Citizens Voice break down some of the bigger issues surrounding not just the 2023 season, but the program itself. How should Penn State -- and yes, its fans -- measure success this fall? What could this team be? And, more realistically, what is it?They'll debate which game Penn State is more likely to win in the season series against Big Ten powers Ohio State and Michigan, and discuss whether any result outside of a College Football Playoff berth is going to be satisfactory enough for those who think the Nittany Lions' time has come.Donnie also breaks down the state of the quarterback competition between Drew Allar and Beau Pribula, along with a rundown of the Northeast Pennsylvania players on the roster and their potential impacts this season.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

There's a lot to talk about around the Penn State football program as June settles in, and Penn Stated host Donnie Collins hits on the biggest topics in this week's episode.Adjustments to the schedule make for a rather historic broadcast of an otherwise run-of-the-mill game against Delaware.A big recruiting weekend draws three solid prospects to Happy Valley and nets verbal commitments from each of them. What does that say about the state of the program right now?An intriguing prospect who signed as part of the 2023 recruiting class is no longer with the team. And head coach James Franklin's comments on expected starting quarterback Drew Allar in an ESPN article published early in the week should draw plenty of attention -- and maybe even some concern -- from Penn State fans. Find out why Donnie thinks the Nittany Lions might be putting too much of the focus on their sophomore quarterback.All that and more in this week's episode of Penn Stated.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

It's the third week in May, about the halfway point from the last Penn State football game at the Rose Bowl on Jan. 2 to the opener Sept. 2 against West Virginia at Beaver Stadium.But finally, the real 2023 Penn State football roster is starting to take shape.On this week's episode of Penn Stated, host Donnie Collins talks about some of the news around the program this week. That includes the White Out Game schedule against Iowa, and the official enrollment of several transfer portal additions and members of the 2023 recruiting class. Which of them means the most for the Nittany Lions this coming season?Donnie also discusses how the transfer portal has led to long-term roster management success for Penn State, where other schools have used it more as a quick fix. That was never more evident than this week, when Penn State landed a commitment from a freshman cornerback out of the portal that has Donnie intrigued.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

It's as quiet a time as you're going to get around the Penn State football program, with spring practices over, summer camps a few weeks from being started, preseason camp a few months away and the season opener another month after that.But there's still plenty to guess about when it comes to the future.This week on the Penn Stated football podcast, host Donnie Collins discusses the recent announcement that the Nittany Lions will host West Virginia in a primetime game on Sept. 2, marking NBC's primetime debut broadcasting Big Ten games.It's a big event, but could it be the biggest event of the season: Penn State's White Out game?Donnie discusses that possibility, and the challenges of otherwise having the annual spectacle during a primetime game. If not West Virginia, what opponent would be the best to perhaps schedule as the White Out? That answer might surprise you.So, too, will be the one thing Donnie hopes might stay somewhat the same -- although, he knows it won't -- about Beaver Stadium after a just-approved $700 million renovation project to the facility is completed by 2027 (or at some point thereafter, the way these construction projects tend to go).To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

So much for Sean Clifford having to fight for an opportunity on the free-agent path after the 2023 NFL Draft.The record-setting Penn State quarterback and four-time captain's fifth-round selection by the Green Bay Packers on Saturday highlighted what was a big weekend for the Nittany Lions at the Draft in Kansas City. But what does his selection say about how his career was viewed by those who watched him at Penn State?Legendary Penn State beat writer (and noted Green Bay Packers fanatic) Rich Scarcella of the Reading Eagle joined host Donnie Collins on the Penn Stated podcast this week to discuss the Clifford selection from both a Packers and Penn State perspective.They also debated which drafted Penn State player is the best fit with the team that drafted him, and which player -- outside of Clifford, of course -- went higher than both thought he would.In a jam-packed episode of the podcast, Donnie also chatted with Mike Rescigno of the Greater Scranton Penn State Chapter to discuss the return of the group's popular annual dinner, which will be held on June 8 at Fiorelli Catering in Peckville. New Penn State men's basketball coach Mike Rhoades and voice of Penn State football and basketball Steve Jones will be the keynote speakers, and local Penn State legend Matt McGloin will serve as toastmaster.Donnie also ran down some breaking news: The release of the 2024-25 College Football Playoff schedule.  For tickets to the 42nd annual Scranton Chapter Dinner, visit www.psuscranton.org, email Mike Rescigno at mike.rescigno@comcast.net, or call Mike at 570-466-7872.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

The NFL Draft kicks off on Thursday night, and with it comes the opportunity every young football player dreams about: A shot to hear their name called by commissioner Roger Goodell, and the realization that they're a professional football player.A slew of players who graduated from Penn State or declared early for the Draft after the 2022 season have completed their offseason training, done the Combine, shown off their improvements at Pro Day and now just have to wait.For the rest of us, it's time to speculate.On the latest episode of the Penn Stated podcast, host Donnie Collins takes a guess at which Nittany Lions will be picked, what round fans can expect to hear their names called, and what teams will be the most interested in acquiring their services. He also answers some of the Draft's burning questions when it comes to Penn State players and former Nittany Lions alike.It seems as if Joey Porter Jr. becoming the first Nittany Lions defensive back ever to be picked in the first round is a foregone conclusion among fans. But, is that a guarantee? Donnie explains why he's not quite as convinced.There's no question someone is going to overdraft Kentucky quarterback and former Nittany Lions backup Will Levis. But, by how many rounds?Ji'Ayir Brown will be a great NFL player, but find out why Donnie isn't sure that means he's sure to be selected before the second round ends.Which Penn State prospect does Donnie think has the best chance at a 10-year NFL career?Would it be better for Sean Clifford if he wasn't drafted? And why are people so certain he won't be?All this, and more, on the special NFL Draft edition of Penn Stated.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

For sure, there was plenty to talk about after last Saturday's Blue-White Game at Beaver Stadium.Omari Evans and Kaden Saunders may have cooled some of the doubt about the readiness of Penn State's second batch of receivers. For backup defensive ends, Dani Dennis-Sutton and Zuriah Fisher sure did look like gamebreakers. For true freshmen who would normally still be in high school, Tony Rojas and Ta'Mere Robinson sure did look like potential stars at linebacker. KJ Winston might be a stud at safety. The defense potentially looks dominant, even if the kicking specialists left a bit to be desired.But with special guest Cory Giger of DK Pittsburgh Sports on as his special guest this week, of course Penn Stated host Donnie Collins is going to put the focus back on the quarterback position and the performance of sophomore Drew Allar in what, in all reality, was his first career game as the Nittany Lions' starting quarterback.Donnie and Cory went in-depth on the receiver battle and made themselves GMs while discussing their view on what positions Penn State coaches should look to bolster through the transfer portal this summer.Still, most of the talk centered on Allar, who threw for more than 200 yards in the game, with just one touchdown, and had to battle a hard-charging defense throughout the overcast afternoon. Is he ready to help Penn State contend for a Big Ten East title sooner rather than later? And, how important is he for a program that wants to get itself on an accelerated national title pace?Plus, Donnie and Cory give their opinions on realistic timelines for the Nittany Lions to win a national championship. (Hint: Don't hold your breath waiting.)To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

The final score means nothing in a scrimmage, of course.But, the value of a spring game in college football may never have been higher.As Penn State prepares for a long-awaited return to a more traditional Blue-White Game on Saturday afternoon, Penn Stated host Donnie Collins and special guest Elton Hayes of CNHI Pennsylvania discuss the importance of having a spring scrimmage when it comes to evaluating young talent and building a depth chart. They also discuss the top players and position players to watch this weekend and delve into the focus on -- and importance of -- NIL at Penn State. Oh, and Donnie and Elton discuss the Drew Allar focus in what will be his first outing as Penn State's starting quarterback.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

College days have been on the mind of Penn Stated podcast host Donnie Collins lately.His are long behind him, as the seemingly monthly trips to visit campuses with his son -- who will be going away to college in the fall -- remind him. And this week's episode of the podcast is a tribute to the memories made during Collins' college days.With the help of his old college friend and current Williamsport Sun Gazette icon Chris Masse, one of the top prep sports reporters in the state, Donnie delves into what he feels is a key development in Penn State's offseason roster build: The transfer portal addition of former Williamsport running back Trey Potts this week. Nobody followed Potts' high school career better than Masse, and they discuss Potts' importance and potential impact.But, they also remember the old days at Penn State in the late 1990s, which included what in their mind could be the greatest football game ever played on campus at Penn State. (Certainly, it is in their minds.)Donnie also discusses his top College Towns in the Big Ten, based on a recent report that lists Ann Arbor, Mich., at the top and Lincoln, Neb., at the bottom of the list. Needless to say, Donnie feels that list is...a little off.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

It's a new era for Penn State basketball.Baseball season is upon us.And, Penn State football is entering a new era with plenty of talent and questions.On this week's episode of the Penn Stated podcast, host Donnie Collins chats with The Reading Eagle Penn State beat writer Rich Scarcella about Mike Rhoades, Penn State's new men's basketball coach -- a native of Mahanoy City and a graduate of Mahanoy Area High School, located just a few miles outside of Hazleton.Does Rhoades' area roots make him a bet to stay at Penn State for the long term?Donnie and Rich also talk about replacing Ji'Ayir Brown in the defensive scheme this spring, and the void he leaves as a leader. Who are the players most likely to step up in that role? Donnie and Rich discuss that, as well.They also couldn't resist talking some Yankees baseball.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Season 2 of the Penn Stated podcast kicks off in grand fashion this week as spring weather -- not to mention spring practice in Happy Valley -- is firmly upon us.Host Donnie Collins discusses some of the big questions surrounding the Nittany Lions as camp opens (visit The Times-Tribune to read about some of them), including head coach James Franklin's concerns that leadership will need to begin developing this spring.Donnie also chats with his special guest, former Penn State offensive lineman and West Scranton High School football and wrestling legend Eric Shrive, who looks back on his playing days and what spring football meant to him. Which member of the staff is most important to players at this time of year? Is this really the time of year where position battles begin to get settled?Also, Shrive discusses an important community event coming up Saturday at Scranton High School: The Impact Athlete Wrestling Clinic. A joint venture of the West Scranton Wrestling Alumni Association and the Lehigh Valley Health Network, the event will bring four Penn State wrestlers -- including three-time national champions Carter Starocci and Aaron Brooks -- to the area to be guest instructors at the free clinic.All this and more, on the Season 2 debut of the Penn Stated podcast.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

On the final episode of the first season of the Penn Stated podcast, host Donnie Collins breaks down the 2023 recruiting class and its newest member, four-star Maryland high school product Chimdy Onoh, an offensive lineman who signed his letter of intent during the traditional signing day on Wednesday.Where did Penn State do especially well in this class?Where could they have improved?What is the one area Donnie thinks teams should simply use the transfer portal rather than scout high school prospects?Find out as we put a bow on the first season of the Penn Stated podcast.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Marques Hagans is a legend in Charlottesville, and the fact he left the University of Virginia coaching staff after 12 seasons overall and 10 as receivers coach to take the same position with Penn State this week doesn't change that.But it might change plenty for the Nittany Lions, who found the fresh face they needed at the helm of one of the most important position groups on the roster with the 2023 season on the horizon.On this week's edition of Penn Stated, host Donnie Collins breaks down Hagans' hiring with Greg Madia,  the longtime Cavaliers beat writer for The Daily Progress in Charlottesville. (Check out his work here.) Greg details what Hagans meant to the university and the program both as a star quarterback and a valued member of coaching staffs led by three different head coaches. He also checks in with a breakdown of Hagans' reputation for developing talent, his chops on the recruiting trail, and the leadership he showed when tragedy struck the program and community after November's sensless murder of three members of the football team on campus.Donnie also delves into the recent news that former Nittany Lions head coach Bill O'Brien is heading back to the job he held before Penn State hired him in late 2011: Offensive coordinator of the New England Patriots. If he had it to do over again, would O'Brien still be Penn State's head coach? It's fun to speculate, after all.Plus, Donnie says goodbye -- and thank you -- to a mentor and friend.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

There are no coincidences in sports. There is no such thing as interesting timing.Everything is planned. There is cause and effect. Things don't happen without reason.So when Penn State announced that it let go of receivers coach Taylor Stubblefield on Sunday night, and top transfer portal target receiver Dante Cephas said a half hour later that he was committing to the Nittany Lions, it kicked off a furious week at the position many felt Penn State needed to hit hard through the transfer portal this offseason.In a super-sized episode of the Penn Stated podcast, host Donnie Collins discusses the additions of Cephas and rising Florida State prospect Malik McClain to a wideout group that still doesn't have a position coach -- at least publicly.Donnie also chats with DK Pittsburgh Sports Penn State beat writer Cory Giger about the move, and what it says about James Franklin's philosophy on competing 365 days a year, "In everything you do," as one of his team's mantras goes.Donnie also gives his opinion on which two other positions will now need help through the portal, and which portal loss for Penn State might be as important as the additions of Cephas and McClain.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify

Penn State did what it set out to do in the Rose Bowl.It sent a slew of players who meant so much to the program's past out in the best possible fashion, with embattled quarterback Sean Clifford absorbing a standing ovation from the Nittany Lions faithful in Pasadena after a near-perfect final performance highlighting that.As the Clifford era ended, the Drew Allar reign as starting quarterback began, and for as promising as most around the Penn State program feel that time can be, it does bring its own set of questions.Penn Stated host Donnie Collins wraps up the 2022 season with a look at Clifford's stirring performance, and what the win in the Rose Bowl will mean for a Penn State team that suddenly has some national momentum with the 2023 campaign still eight months from its dawn. What has the Rose Bowl, and a week's worth of decisions on whether to pursue NFL dreams, taught us about what's possible in 2023? And how much pressure will be on Allar, Penn State's freshman phenom, to guide the offense?Donnie also delves into the folly of putting too much stock into season-ending polls like the Associated Press poll, which ranked Penn State at No. 7 to conclude the season. And if you think there have been lopsided College Football Playoff games in recent years, just wait until you get a load of the semifinals and finals of the 12-team tournament come 2024.To contact Donnie, drop an email at dcollins@timesshamrock.com, or send him a message on Twitter @PennStateTT.Listen and subscribe on Apple podcastsListen and subscribe on Google podcastsListen and subscribe on Spotify