Penn State vs. Clemson in the Pinstripe Bowl: A Clash of Former Contenders in Unexpected Territory
Back in August, if you had penciled in Penn State and Clemson for a postseason showdown, you probably had the Peach Bowl or Fiesta Bowl circled - not the Pinstripe. But that’s where we are. Two teams that opened the season with College Football Playoff aspirations now find themselves in the Bronx, closing out the year in a bowl that wasn’t on anyone’s radar when the top 25s dropped.
Together, these two programs - both mainstays in the national conversation - racked up 11 losses. Injuries, inconsistency, and a few too many missed chances knocked them out of the championship hunt early, and by mid-October, the tone of their seasons had shifted from hopeful to damage control.
Now, with depleted rosters and interim leadership, the Pinstripe Bowl becomes less about rankings and more about pride, development, and who wants it more on a cold December afternoon at Yankee Stadium.
Quarterback Spotlight: Klubnik’s Final Bow
Cade Klubnik will suit up one last time in orange and purple, closing the book on a college career that’s been both productive and, at times, underappreciated. He’s one of only six Clemson quarterbacks since World War II to notch at least 25 wins as a starter, entering this game with a 26-13 record. Statistically, he’s carved out a place among the program’s all-time greats: fourth in touchdown passes (73), fourth in passing yards (9,930), and second in completions (894) - just seven shy of tying Tajh Boyd for the top spot.
With so many offensive weapons unavailable, Klubnik’s leadership and experience could be the difference-maker for a Clemson offense that’s been hit hard by opt-outs and injuries.
Coaching Carousel and Play-Calling Duties
Penn State is in transition mode. Terry Smith is steering the ship for the bowl game as interim head coach, while newly hired Matt Campbell focuses on the big-picture rebuild.
On defense, safeties coach Anthony Poindexter will handle play-calling duties - the third time in five seasons he’s taken on that responsibility. He’s familiar with the personnel and the moment, which should help steady a unit that’s missing some key contributors.
Clemson, meanwhile, benefits from a bit more continuity. Defensive coordinator Tom Allen, who was part of Penn State’s staff just last year, will call plays from the booth. It’s his first season in the role at Clemson, and he’ll be tasked with holding together a defense that’s missing several starters - especially up front.
Thinned-Out Rosters on Both Sides
Neither team is anywhere close to full strength. Clemson will be without 27 scholarship players, including seven starters. That’s a staggering number, and it speaks to just how much attrition the Tigers have dealt with - whether due to injury, NFL Draft declarations, or other departures.
Penn State isn’t immune either. The Nittany Lions will be without defensive tackle Zane Durant, safety Zakee Wheatley, running back Nicholas Singleton, and offensive lineman Vega Ioane. Those losses sting, particularly Singleton, who has been a key piece of the offense since his freshman year.
Still, Penn State is expected to have Kaytron Allen available, and that could be a major factor. With weather conditions expected to be cold and potentially icy, leaning on the run game might be the smartest path forward - especially against a Clemson defensive line that’s missing some of its core.
What to Watch For: Motivation and Conditions
Let’s be honest - bowl games like this are tough to predict. Motivation is everything, and it’s hard to gauge how 18-to-22-year-olds will respond to a postseason game that wasn’t part of their original plan.
But if history is any guide, Clemson under Dabo Swinney has typically handled these kinds of matchups well. The Tigers are 5-1 in their last six non-New Year’s Six or non-Playoff bowls dating back to 2009.
That said, the setting could throw a wrench into things. Yankee Stadium in late December isn’t exactly ideal football weather. Forecasts call for temperatures just above freezing and a chance of morning ice, which could make the field slick and further emphasize ball security and the run game.
The Bottom Line
This isn’t the game either team expected to be playing, but it’s still a meaningful moment - especially for the players and coaches who’ll be asked to step up in unfamiliar roles. For Clemson, it’s a chance to send Klubnik off with a win and build momentum heading into a pivotal offseason. For Penn State, it’s the start of a new era, and a chance for younger players to stake their claim under the interim staff.
The Pinstripe Bowl might not carry playoff weight, but don’t let that fool you - there’s plenty on the line in the Bronx.