Penn State wrestling just keeps rolling. With a dominant shutout win over Northwestern on Sunday, Jan. 18, the Nittany Lions notched their 80th straight dual meet victory - a streak that now spans multiple seasons and continues to underline their status as the gold standard in collegiate wrestling.
But as the team preps for its next matchup against Indiana on Friday, Jan. 23, there's more brewing in Happy Valley than just another dual. A familiar name is back in the fold, and it could have ripple effects across the lower weight classes.
Branden Wentzel Returns to Penn State Midseason
Branden Wentzel, a former member of Penn State’s 2023 recruiting class, has rejoined the program as a midseason transfer. A versatile competitor who wrestles at both 125 and 133 pounds, Wentzel initially redshirted during his first stint in Happy Valley. He finished 3-2 at the National Collegiate Open in February 2024 before transferring to Lock Haven, where he saw limited success with a 1-8 record during the 2024-25 season.
Now, he’s back in the blue and white - and while he may not be stepping into the starting lineup right away, his return brings more than just depth.
What Wentzel’s Return Means for the Lineup
Head coach Cael Sanderson has made it clear: when it comes to roster management, redshirting - when possible - is a key part of the long-term vision. That strategy revolves around player development, giving young wrestlers time to adjust to the college level, build strength, and learn the nuances of the Penn State system.
At 125 pounds, sophomore Luke Lilledahl has been holding down the starting spot. Behind him, true freshman Nate Desmond has been the only real backup option.
That’s where Wentzel’s return becomes significant. With another experienced wrestler now in the room, Desmond could be in line to redshirt - a move that would give him an extra year to build his foundation and come back stronger in future seasons.
Wentzel, who’s already familiar with the demands of college wrestling and Penn State’s program, can serve as a more seasoned backup to Lilledahl while also pushing him in practice. It’s a win-win for a team that thrives on internal competition and depth.
Adding Versatility at 133 Pounds
Wentzel’s impact doesn’t stop at 125. He also brings flexibility at 133 pounds, where freshman Marcus Blaze currently leads the way.
Behind Blaze, the Nittany Lions have junior Masanosuke Ono and sophomore Kyison Garcia. Ono, however, is expected to redshirt this season, which opens the door for Wentzel to serve as a depth piece in that weight class as well.
Even if he’s not the go-to option in dual meets, Wentzel’s presence in the room matters. He gives Blaze, Garcia, and others a tough, experienced body to train against - something that can’t be overstated in a program where iron sharpens iron.
Strategic Depth for a Championship Push
With the season heating up and a marquee showdown against No. 2 Ohio State on the horizon, every piece of the puzzle matters. Wentzel’s return might not make headlines the way a top-ranked recruit or a major upset would, but it’s the kind of move that reinforces why Penn State stays at the top.
Depth. Development.
Long-term planning. Sanderson and his staff have built a dynasty not just by landing elite talent, but by managing it wisely.
Wentzel’s midseason addition is a reflection of that - a calculated move that strengthens the present while investing in the future.
And with the Nittany Lions eyeing yet another national title run, every edge counts.