When Penn State and Clemson square off in the Pinstripe Bowl this Saturday, it’ll be just the second time these two storied programs have met on the field. Both teams entered the season with high hopes, and while the road hasn’t been smooth, they’ve each found their footing late, setting the stage for a compelling postseason clash in the Bronx.
Let’s break down the key matchups and the players to keep an eye on as the Nittany Lions and Tigers look to cap their seasons with a statement win.
Quarterback Battle: Youth vs. Experience
Penn State: Ethan Grunkemeyer (#17)
The redshirt freshman is stepping into his seventh career start, and he’s been turning heads down the stretch.
Grunkemeyer has been efficient and poised, completing 69.2% of his passes this season-a number that speaks to both his accuracy and decision-making. His performances against Nebraska and Rutgers showed real growth, and the staff has clearly put more trust in his arm as the season’s progressed.
He’s not just managing the game-he’s starting to shape it.
Clemson: Cade Klubnik (#2)
Klubnik, the seasoned senior, brings a dual-threat dimension that’s tough to game-plan against.
With 16 touchdown passes and four more on the ground, he’s been the engine of Clemson’s offense. His 385-yard, two-touchdown outing in a November shootout against Duke was a reminder of what he’s capable of when he’s in rhythm.
Klubnik’s experience and ability to extend plays give the Tigers a clear edge at the position heading into this one.
Linebackers: The Defensive Quarterbacks
Penn State: Amare Campbell (#24)
Campbell has been a revelation since transferring from North Carolina.
He leads the team in tackles (96), and he’s been a disruptive force behind the line with 9.5 tackles for loss and three sacks. Add in a fumble return for a touchdown at Rutgers, and you’ve got a linebacker who not only cleans up but creates game-changing plays.
Campbell’s blend of speed, instinct, and physicality makes him the heart of Penn State’s defense.
Clemson: Sammy Brown (#47)
Brown might be one of the most complete linebackers in the country.
He leads the Tigers with 92 tackles and adds 12.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, seven pass breakups, and six quarterback hurries. Whether he’s dropping into coverage, chasing down a runner, or blitzing off the edge, Brown is everywhere.
He’s the kind of player who demands your attention on every snap-and often still beats you.
Coaching: A Tale of Two Sidelines
Penn State: Terry Smith (Interim Head Coach)
Smith, a former Nittany Lion captain and wide receiver, stepped into the interim role after the program moved on from James Franklin.
Under his watch, Penn State has shown signs of resurgence. The near-upset of unbeaten Indiana in November was a turning point, and the team’s energy and cohesion have noticeably improved.
Smith’s connection to the program runs deep, and the players have responded to his leadership.
Clemson: Dabo Swinney
There’s not much left to say about Swinney that hasn’t already been said.
Now in his 18th season, he’s the winningest coach in ACC history with 187 victories and two national championships (2016, 2018) to his name. His teams are always prepared, always physical, and rarely out-coached.
The Tigers may not have hit their usual championship stride this year, but under Swinney, they’re always a tough out in bowl season.
Position-by-Position Edge
- Quarterback: Advantage Clemson - Klubnik’s experience and versatility give the Tigers a leg up.
- Running Back: Even - Both teams bring solid backfields with different strengths.
- Wide Receiver/Tight End: Advantage Clemson - More explosive threats on the perimeter.
- Offensive Line: Advantage Penn State - The Nittany Lions have been more consistent up front.
- Defensive Line: Even - Both fronts can get after the quarterback and stop the run.
- Linebackers: Advantage Clemson - Brown’s production and versatility tilt it their way.
- Secondary (CB/S): Even - Talented units on both sides with playmakers in coverage.
- Special Teams: Advantage Penn State - The Lions have the edge in the third phase.
- Coaching: Advantage Clemson - Swinney’s track record speaks for itself.
This game has all the ingredients for a gritty, hard-fought bowl showdown. Clemson brings the pedigree and polish, while Penn State arrives with momentum and a young quarterback who’s finding his groove. It’s the kind of matchup where one or two plays could swing the outcome-and both teams have the playmakers to deliver them.