Josh Pate is eyeing the Nittany Lions as potential contenders for a spot in the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff bracket. With Matt Campbell stepping into his first year, the schedule seems to be on his side, offering a favorable path without facing any Big Ten teams that made the playoffs last season.
Pate points out, "There's no Ohio State, no Oregon, no Indiana. The out-of-conference schedule is pretty light." With no consecutive road games and a home matchup against USC, Penn State's path looks promising.
Penn State’s 2026 Prospects: A Closer Look
It's not uncommon for programs to ease the transition for a new coach with a manageable schedule, especially amid significant roster changes. This year, Penn State's non-conference games include Marshall, Temple, and Buffalo.
The Big Ten lineup, however, seems like a stroke of luck. For a team aiming to establish itself as a playoff regular, fortune could play a key role in Campbell’s debut season.
Indiana experienced a similar scenario in 2024, facing only one ranked team all season and reaping the benefits. Could Campbell's crew in Happy Valley follow suit?
November poses challenges, with a tough trip to Washington. Yet, the rest of the month features Purdue, Washington, Minnesota, Rutgers, and Maryland.
Pate believes, "Penn State's odds to stay in the playoff conversation are solid, even in year one. While they might not be national title contenders yet, the schedule could work in their favor."
Starting the season 3-0 is within reach, and if the Lions can secure victories in three of their four conference clashes against Wisconsin, Northwestern, USC, and Michigan, the playoffs become a realistic goal. The Seattle trip marks their only significant travel challenge. If Penn State emerges 7-2 after nine games, ending with Minnesota, Rutgers, and Maryland could set the stage for a 10-win season.