As the December 27 kickoff for the Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium approaches, the matchup between Penn State and Clemson has taken on a unique and dramatic narrative. Recent roster updates and shocking coaching staff adjustments have made this 6-6 vs. 7-5 clash one of the most intriguing storylines of the bowl season.
Clemson’s “Skeleton Crew”: 26 Scholarship Players Out
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney confirmed today that the Tigers will face extreme depth challenges. A total of 26 scholarship players are officially unavailable for the matchup.
- Injury Toll: 17 players are out due to injury, including defensive anchor Wade Woodaz.
- Draft Opt-Outs: Defensive stars Peter Woods, T.J. Parker, and DeMonte Capehart have opted out to begin NFL Draft preparations.
- Transfer Portal: 5 players, including standout defensive back Khalil Barnes, have entered the transfer portal.
Despite these losses, Clemson still features star QB Cade Klubnik and All-ACC tackle Blake Miller, ensuring they remain a formidable threat to the Penn State defense.
The Return of a Legend: Trace McSorley Coaching QBs
The biggest spark for Penn State fans is the confirmed return of legendary quarterback Trace McSorley. It was verified today that McSorley will serve as the interim quarterbacks coach during bowl preparations and for the game itself, working directly with Drew Allar and Ethan Grunkemeyer.
As the most successful quarterback in recent Penn State history, McSorley’s “winning mindset” is seen as a key asset in stabilizing the locker room during this transition period. He joins interim defensive coordinator Anthony Poindexter in a staff reshuffled for the postseason.
Nittany Lions Roster Update: Elliot Washington II Departs
On the Penn State side, sophomore cornerback Elliot Washington II has officially expressed his intent to enter the transfer portal and will not participate in the Pinstripe Bowl.
Interim head coach Terry Smith addressed the media today, emphasizing a resilient mindset: “The process is the same as anything. It’s going to be the next man up. The standard is the result. We’ll field a team that’s going to be ready to compete. We’re going to put a product out there on the field that’s representative of Penn State.”
Smith also noted the high level of preparation, stating that recent sessions were “two of our best all year since I’ve taken over.”
Key Matchup Points
- Experience vs. Hunger: Clemson is short-handed but battle-tested. Penn State is entering the dawn of the Matt Campbell era with high morale.
- The McSorley Effect: Will we see Drew Allar channel some of McSorley’s signature mobility and decisive playmaking?
The Pinstripe Bowl kicks off at 12:00 PM ET on December 27.