Kaytron Allen just added another impressive line to an already historic college football résumé.
The Penn State running back has been named to the AFCA All-America Second Team, capping off a season that was nothing short of legendary in Happy Valley. For a program with a rich tradition of standout backs, Allen has now etched his name at the very top of the record books.
With 4,180 career rushing yards, Allen is now the all-time leading rusher in Penn State history, surpassing Evan Royster’s mark of 3,932 yards that had stood since 2010. That’s not just a record - that’s a legacy.
And Allen didn’t just sneak past it. He stormed through.
This season, the Norfolk, Virginia native delivered his best campaign yet, racking up a career-high 1,303 rushing yards. His regular season finale was the exclamation point - a dominant 226-yard performance against Rutgers that reminded everyone just how much of a game-changer he can be when the ball is in his hands.
Allen’s accolades have been stacking up fast. In addition to the AFCA honor, he also earned Second-Team All-America recognition from the Associated Press.
And in the Big Ten - a conference known for punishing defenses and elite running back play - Allen was named First-Team All-Big Ten by both the coaches and the media. That’s a clean sweep of respect from those who know the game best.
What makes Allen’s rise so compelling isn’t just the numbers, though they’re certainly eye-popping. It’s how he’s done it - with a mix of vision, power, and patience that’s rare at the college level. He’s not just a back who gets yards; he’s a back who controls the tempo of a game, who wears down defenses, and who shows up when it matters most.
Penn State’s offense has leaned on Allen all year, and he’s answered the call every time. Whether grinding out tough yards between the tackles or bursting into the second level with his trademark smooth stride, Allen has been the heartbeat of the Nittany Lions' ground game.
And now, with his name cemented in the Penn State history books and national recognition to match, there’s no doubt: Kaytron Allen has left a legacy that will be remembered in State College for years to come.