Transferring within the Big Ten is rare. Transferring between rivals like Ohio State and Penn State? That’s almost unheard of.
But on January 6, 2026, James Peoples did just that. The former top-100 recruit left a crowded Buckeye backfield to join Taylor Mouser’s offense in State College.
The Scouting Report: Lightning to Allen’s Thunder
If Kaytron Allen is the “Thunder” (Power/Vision), Peoples is the “Lightning.”
- Speed: Peoples has legitimate home-run speed. He can turn the corner on sweeps in a way Allen cannot.
- Receiving: He is a natural pass catcher, making him dangerous on 3rd downs.
Why Penn State? The “Singleton Role”
With Nick Singleton gone, Penn State had a vacancy for an explosive, change-of-pace back.
- Snap Count: Peoples projects to take the ~10-12 carries per game that Singleton vacated.
- The Fit: This allows Kaytron Allen to batter defenses for three quarters, before Peoples comes in with fresh legs against a tired defense.
2026 Stat Projection
- Rushing Yards: 650
- Touchdowns: 6
- Yards Per Carry: 6.2 (High efficiency on lower volume)
The Verdict
This is the savviest move of the offseason. Penn State didn’t just get a good running back; they got the perfect complement to their starter. Peoples brings exactly the traits (speed, explosiveness) that the RB room was missing, ensuring the ground game remains elite in the post-Singleton era.