Penn State fans have spent the past few weeks hammering three search phrases into Google: “Penn State football roster,” “Drew Allar,” and “Nick Singleton brother.” Each query reflects a real storyline that has reshaped the Nittany Lions’ season. Below is a quick, fact-based update tying those threads together.
Roster Snapshot After an 0-5 Big Ten Start
Penn State sits at 3-5 (0-5 Big Ten) after the 38-14 loss to No. 1 Ohio State, the program’s fifth consecutive defeat since late September. The official depth chart is changing weekly as interim head coach Terry Smith tries to stabilize a roster that will need significant adjustments heading into the final stretch of the season.
Key positional updates:
- Quarterback room: With Drew Allar sidelined, redshirt freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer has logged 42 completions on 67 attempts (343 yards, 1 TD through Week 10), while veterans Jaxon Smolik and Bekkem Kritza remain next up on the depth chart.
- Running backs: Seniors Nick Singleton (82 carries, 292 yards, 7 rushing TDs) and Kaytron Allen (119 carries, 688 yards, 5.8 YPC) continue to shoulder the load as Penn State aims to regain ground-based identity.
- Receiver rotation: Graduate transfer Trebor Pena (26 catches, 232 yards) and senior Devonte Ross (23 catches, 281 yards) have emerged as steady targets alongside tight end Tyler Warren.
Drew Allar’s Injury Fallout
Drew Allar’s season-ending leg injury against Northwestern on October 11 changed everything. He exits 2025 with 103 completions on 159 attempts for 1,100 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions.
Interim coach Terry Smith has emphasized simplified reads for Grunkemeyer and more pre-snap motion to help the offensive line, which struggled mightily in Columbus. The unit’s pass-protection problems were evident as Ohio State racked up 4 sacks and 7 tackles for loss while Penn State’s running backs combined for just 96 yards on 27 carries.
Why “Nick Singleton Brother”Is Trending
Curiosity around Nick Singleton’s family spiked after news broke that Penn State offered his younger brother, 2027 running back Jordan Singleton, earlier this fall. The Governor Mifflin standout received the scholarship in September, keeping the recruiting spotlight firmly on the Singleton household as the Nittany Lions plan future backfield depth.
Jordan’s offer is a reminder that Penn State’s roster and recruiting strategy are intertwined; even during a rough patch, the staff continues to build for the post-Singleton era by recruiting his own family tree.
What to Watch Next
- Quarterback development: Grunkemeyer’s decision-making against ranked Indiana (Week 9 opponent) will dictate the offense’s ceiling down the stretch.
- Running back usage: Expect Smith to lean even harder on the Allen-Singleton tandem to keep the defense off the field.
- Recruiting ripple effects: Keep tabs on Jordan Singleton’s junior-year progress and any additional 2027 offers Penn State extends at running back.
Bookmark our players page and depth chart hub for weekly roster tweaks, injury notes, and new recruiting developments as the season winds toward November.